finishing fir soffitts

I'm looking for advice about finishing our newly installed fir soffits. The wood is quite blond right now, and I would like them to darken up a bit (closer to the look of fir after a few years). The soffitts are protected from sun, but I would like them to match up with the fir front door, which will not be as sheltered.

My contractor has recommended Sikkens (http://www.nam.sikkens.com/index-english.cfm) - i think they use it on log homes.

My favourite hardware store reps Penofin (http://www.penofin.com/) marine coating.

Any experience/suggestions?

You don´t say, but it appears from what you´ve looked into that your soffits are outdoors. If so, there really is no other choice than the Sikkens product. It will protect the wood in ways the Penofin cannot. I have used both products exclusively for many years in different conditions. The Sikkens will deeply color the wood, however. Definitely do a test piece of spare fir before you do the whole house. If it colors the wood too much, you can try the Penofin, but that takes more upkeep than the Sikkens.  If it is the case that these soffits are indoors, I would find some wipe on poly for the ease of aplication. Good Luck!

 -R.

Amen to Sikkens - by far the best exterior wood product!