Hello FWW Gang,
A friend of mine has asked if I can build a 24×30″ table for his power boat. The wood working is straightforward, with some custom inlay. Question is related to the finish.
I’ve never built a project for a marine application and what little I know says to apply many layers of varnish (spar varnish). A friend of mine did a project where he applied 15 layers of finish, with some scuff sanding between coats. I don’t mind putting in the time/effort if that’s the best way to proceed.
I know there are some new products on the market, but have no experience or knowledge of how well they hold up.
So, I’m looking for advice from those with marine experience about best finish and also any guidance on good practices for applying the finish.
Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
Cheers,
Erick
Replies
Wood will always have problems outdoors, no matter what you do. But the very best finish for this will be found at a boat store. Go to a good one and ask for the best they have.
My cockpit table will last about 5 years before I strip it and re varnish, it is made of laminated red cedar and teak. Inside the table is solid teak and it’s going on 20 years with a maintenance coat after 15 years. They both were finished using spar varnishes applied with a badger hair brush. I apply minimally 6 coats as heavy as possible with 220 sanding between coats using a RO sander. Petit and Epiphanes make good varnishes, Interlux equally. There are mainly two variants to spar varnish, one is softer and will weather better, one has urethane and is harder but not as flexible so not indicated for solid wood outdoors since it may peel.
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