[Public-list] Painting teak toerails

[FINNUS505 at aol.com]

On the topic of varnish...........
 
This year I tried something new. I put two coats of West system epoxy on my  
cockpit locker hatches, and then three coats of varnish. I had read about this 
 technique, and wanted to try it.
 
As we had such a late launch this year, it is not a good test, but so far,  
it all looks good. The wood grain does not glow quite as bright and warm as 
with  an all varnish finish, but it's pretty damn close.
 
I sanded down to the wood, and applied the first coat of epoxy. I wanted to  
apply the second coat before the epoxy had completely cured, so that I would 
not  have to wash off the wax that rises to the surface after curing, or sand 
between  coats. It was about 65 degrees in my basement at the time, so I had to 
wait  about an hour. The test is that the epoxy is smooth to the touch, but 
you  can still indent it with a fingernail. (wear gloves, of course. Test a 
sample of  epoxy off the hatch, so you don't mar the work)
 
After the second coat, I let the epoxy harden overnight. Then I scrubbed  off 
the wax with scotchbrite and Fantastic cleaner, rinsing well with water. You  
have to get all the wax off, or the varnish will cloud, and not adhere  well.
 
After the scotchbrite, I didn't feel I had to sand. I scotchbrite between  
coats of varnish too, instead of sanding. 
 
I just use a disposable foam brush to apply the varnish. To avoid bubble  
problems, I find If you just dip the edge of the brush in the varnish, and then  
don't have to wipe excess varnish off the brush on the inside lip of the can,  
and apply the varnish with light, even pressure, there is no bubbling  
problem.
 
After years of using Z Spar Captains Varnish, I've switched to MinWax  
Helmsman's Spar Varnish. It's cheaper, and gets as good results. My main,  forward, 
cockpit icebox and lazarette hatches are still all varnish finishes. I  put on 
10 coats. If the epoxy/varnish finish stands up, that will save alot of  
time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
I'll keep you posted,
Lee
Stargazer #255
 
 

 1127242413.0