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What should I use to seal the end-grain of a newly cut tree?

I use Anchorseal but I know a few that uses latex paint. they usualy get the paint that was mixed the wrong color and get a good deal on it.
 
Anchorseal is best, but don’t ever wait to seal a cut log. Some species start to crack within minutes of being cut, so it is best to coat end grain immediately even if you don't have "the best" solution on hand. Brush, splash or wipe on any kind of paint or tar or even melt wax to seal the end grain the instant the log is cut.

If there is any doubt, you can always trim the end to discard the original sealer/paint and recoat with Anchorseal or just recoat over the original sealer coat.

Caveat: Even with the best sealer, there is no guarantee you won't have some cracking in the wood. Good luck!

BH
 
I have used many things over the years. In no particular order:
latex house paint
Kilz sealer
white glue (i.e. Elmers)
yellow glue (i.e. TiteBond)
wood paste wax
home-made paraffin paste wax
melted paraffin
shellac (multiple coats)
water-based sanding sealer (multiple coats)
wax emulsion (Anchorseal, Green Wood Sealer, etc.)

Any of the above is better than nothing.
Waxes seem to work the best, with the wax emulsion being my current favorite for end grain.
BTW, pigmented paints seem to dull the tools. Probably has something to do with the titanium dioxide pigment in them.
 
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