Alkyd-, oil-modified-latex-, and latex-based finishes were applied to severely weathered western redcedar and redwood boards that did not have any surface treatment to ameliorate the weathered surface prior to painting. Six finishes were evaluated annually for 11 years for cracking, flaking, erosion, mildew growth, discoloration, and general appearance. Lowsolids-content latex finishes that contained about 10% raw linseed oil and 11% acrylic resin (i.e., the oil-modified latex finishes) performed better on badly weathered wood than did the alkyd and the other latex finish, even after 11 years. Latex finishes that contained raw linseed oil probably stabilized the weathered surface and plasticized the finish. The stabilization of the wood surface and the flexibility of the finish throughout its service life are the important factors in finish performance on these weathered substrates.