Exterior painting cedar posts: water repellent before oil primer necessary?
I am about to sand and finish some 6x6 cedar newel posts in my porch. I am planning to use oil based primer (at least two coats) and 100% acrylic topcoat (2 coats). I have read that it may be advisable to coat the cedar post with (paintable) water repellent / preservative before priming. How essential is that step? According to one water repellent can I saw, I would need to wait at least a week before the oil primer; however, I am in a bit of a hurry to finish this project. (The posts will be installed on top of adjustable post anchors and will therefore not contact the ground). Thanks
(By the way, the posts haven't been installed yet, so I have access to all sides)