Helmsman Gloss Oil-Based Varnish (1-Gallon) Item #290324. It is not a fire hazard. The high solid content and water resistance of varnish make it particularly apt for use on water-exposed outdoor decks, deck chairs, and boats. It has outstanding protection for all marine and household woods and can be applied to Interior and exterior woods above the waterline. Water-based poly should be laid down with a couple of quick strokes. for pricing and availability. for pricing and availability. Although painters sometimes refer to oil- or water-based polyurethane finishes as varnishes, the term varnish usually refers to a clear oil-based … Pro Series Water-Based Varnish. Built to simplify your boat maintenance Specially made for marine applications. This is specifically formulated for marine exposure and generally contains phenolic and alkyd resin, as well as Tung oil for its components. Water-based varnish does not amber over time, and keeps the color of your wood truer than an oil-based finish would. Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Compare; The brush marks will disappear—promise. If applying over an oil-based stain… TotalBoat Halcyon is a 1-part water-based product with a harder finish than traditional 1-part polyurethanes. A clear varnish developed to protect exterior marine timber from harsh elements Provides powerful UV absorption for longer lasting protection Protects exterior timber from salt and fresh water spray, wind and UV rays Protects timber from darkening and discolouration absorbers. Oil-based polyurethane is the cheapest option, followed by water-based polyurethane, followed by varnish. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Sun Block For Wood Most spar/marine varnishes will contain other important additives, such as UV blockers, that give the wood that extra bit of protection it needs in harsh conditions. It does not affect the color of the surface on which you applied it. If you want a rich color without having to reapply coats, an oil-based poly is your best bet. Despite its ability to serve as a wood sunblock, it’s not all sunny when it comes to varnish. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and wear and tear such as scratches. 25. Polyurethane varnish is highly durable. It is known for being a very outstanding wood finishing varnish that was primitively developed for coating the sailing ship’s pole of wood. Overview Minwax® Water Based Helmsman® Spar Urethane is a crystal clear, water-based finish that is specially formulated to protect wood against nature's toughest conditions. Helmsman Clear Water-Based Varnish (1-Gallon) Compare; Multiple Options. However, when you look at what it really offers, it’s easy to see that this is not the ideal solution for your door. Instead, just like the color of the wood, the grain tends to look more as it does in its natural, unfinished state. Advantages of Water-Based Varnish. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. Typically, bubbles in your varnish are due to three main factors: air, dust, and moisture. Add To List Click to add item Minwax® Interior Water-Based Clear Ultimate Wood Floor Finish Polyurethane - 1 gal. It will look awful at first, but water-based poly has an amazing ability to pull tight as it cures, like shrink wrap. Midland, ON L4R 2G4 Canada, Phone: 207.354.0804 This traditional marine varnish is based on tung oil, phenolic-modified alkyd resins and maximum U.V. It offers superior flow and durability. But although they’re often referred to interchangeably, each one has distinct uses and offers varying levels of protection from environmental elements. When applied to wooden surfaces indoors or out, varnish cures into a thin and glossy film with a faint yellow or amber tint, similar to the finish achieved with oil-based polyurethane. I brushed on the Helmsman and applied at least 3 coats. Spar varnish is made with a base of natural oil such as tung, linseed or soya. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Polyurethanes were invented in the 1930s and have found their way into many home improvement products like foams, glues, finishes, and caulks. Ask anyone who has ever used Epifanes High Gloss Clear Varnish and you will learn why it is considered to be the world's best spar varnish. Durable one-part marine varnish dries to a UV-stable, gloss finish that accentuates the wood grain and improves clarity—even after multiple coats. absorbers. It offers superior flow and durability. It has outstanding protection for all marine and household woods and can be applied to Interior and exterior woods above the waterline. You may have heard varnish used as a generic term for any finish, but traditional varnish describes an older form of finish that contains alkyd resin, oil, and solvents. Fax: 207.354.0387. However, not all varnishes are suitable for a project. Works above the waterline; apply to exterior wood boat surfaces. The process of applying polyurethane varies depending on the product’s base. Manasa Reddigari, Bob Vila, The Best Post-Holiday Deals for Your Home Refresh Resolution, The Most Frequently Asked Questions of 2014, The Dos and Don'ts of Air-Drying Everything You Own, 13 DIY Squirrel Feeder Ideas for Your Yard, Often used to finish hardwood floors, the newer. Don't worry too much about the appearance of the wet finish. Most varnishes are polyurethanes of some type, but 2-part products have a harder finish. For optimal results, apply varnish in several layers using a natural-bristle brush. Remove sanding dust. For water-based varnish, use only synthetic bristles, as water causes natural bristles to splay. Dry time at 65F: Dry in 12 hours, recoatable in 24 hours, Epifanes N.A. The choice of sheen, from glossy to something more flat, comes down to personal preference, but there are certainly common usages where one is preferable to another. Under ideal drying conditions, allow 8 to 16 hours before recoating. Oil-Modified urethane provides a flexible coating that applies easily This website uses cookies and other tracking technologies (also known as pixels or beacons) to aid your experience (such as viewing videos), as well as “performance cookies” to analyze your use of this website and to assist with marketing efforts. In addition, it has excellent flexibility and water resistance in all climate conditions. It builds up quickly as well because it has a high solid content. There are many other brands of outdoor oil-based varnish, but the ingredients list is usually much more revealing than the words on the front of the can. Compare; Find My Store. Find My Store. The longevity of your boat and the way it looks depend on the quality of the products you use for its maintenance. to your list. Polyurethane is recommended over varnish for hardwood floors. Marine spar varnish is simply the best choice for exterior use. While water-based paints are durable, they last longer if properly protected with a finish, such as varnish. The oil is combined with resins, solvents, UV protector and driers to create a shiny surface. Thomaston, ME 04861 USA, Epifanes N.A, Inc., 411 Hannah Street After use, water-based varnish is easy to clean up. It protects the wood from harmful ultraviolet rays and it also protects the wood. Fast-drying water-based polyurethane and its newer water-based oil-modified cousin can be applied with a fine-bristle brush, foam roller, spray, or rag. D.I.Y. Then, allow this traditionally slow-drying finish to sit for at least six hours under fair weather conditions to give your wood surfaces a photo finish! With so many options, how can you pick the right polyurethane for the job? Model #132150000. Traditional varnish (sometimes called Spar Varnish or Marine Varnish) is a resin in an oil base with solvents. There’s an option for everyone: DIYers have the choice of a water- or oil-based resin (and one in between) as well as sheens from flat to satin to glossy. A dollop of UV inhibitor is also added to protect the finish. Water-based varnish dries very quickly. Its low toxicity, however, means that it’s equally safe to use near the entryway on exterior doors and trim. Given the unattractive consequences of poorly protected wood surfaces and the annoyance of frequent refinishing, it’s smart to do your homework first to ensure that you’re doing your best to preserve these valuable features. Application: Brush, Roll or Spray A coat of durable wood finish on your hardwood floors, fine furniture, and outdoor decking can mean the difference between a long, lustrous lifespan and one cut short by the passage of time and exposure to the elements. In essence, it is a well-known ext… They create a flexible, strong, and resilient bond which makes them perfect for sealing wood which moves and flexes as well suffers heavy foot traffic. Go to previous page. If varnish is not applied correctly or dried completely, it can peel, crack, or form bubbles that leave wood more susceptible to environmental damage. Water based polyurethane uses water as a thinning agent and also begins to cure as the water dries. Returns policy. Overnight drying is recommended. Polyurethane is like a liquid plastic, often either a pure synthetic plastic or a blend with resin. Review these guidelines before making your final selection at the home improvement store. Varnishes of all types are prone to bubbles and different application processes each … Prior to the introduction of polyurethane to wood finishes most varnishes were simply alkyd varnish which created a nice hard finish, but the addition of polyurethane resin to the formula added scratch, heat, solvent, and … Minwax. With all the modern advances in coatings -- polyurethane, shellac, urethane, or varnish -- some confusion about formula is to be expected. 10 Best Marine Varnish Reviews [2020] with buying guide. When it comes to polyurethane, you have two choices. Technical Info, Community News, and Online Shop! The formulation of the product allows it to move with the wood throughout each season. So, to answer your question, varnish is varnish. Sand lightly between coats with fine sandpaper (220 grit) to produce a finer finish and promote adhesion. Finally, more heat-tolerant but also higher in toxicity. This traditional marine varnish is based on tung oil, phenolic-modified alkyd resins and maximum U.V. Varnish provides … Satin, Container Size: 250ml, 500ml, 1000ml, 5000ml Specifications . A variant of varnish known as spar or marine varnish offers both UV protection and flexibility, which makes it a favorite among DIY woodworkers, who can confidently apply it to soft woods like pine that bend under extreme conditions. Up your woodworking IQ and learn which product is best suited for your next project, so you’ll be able to attain the perfect protection from start to finish (pun intended). Sku # 5557864. What Kind of Varnish is Best for Exterior Use? TotalBoat Lust Marine Varnish, High Gloss and Matte Finish for Wood, Boats, Outdoor Furniture (Hig… Minwax. Contains UV blockers to reduce the sun's graying and fading effects. Dimensions Returns & refunds We will gladly assist with returns and exchanges of this product in accordance with our returns and exchanges policy. Cetol™ Marine Synthetic Varnish by Interlux®. 1. Most professionals agree that water-based varnish is the best product to use over paint. Interior varnish is harder and more protective so should always be the varnish of choice for furniture used indoors. Low-odor, low-VOC formula cleans up with soap and water. Here are 10 best varnishes you can … Polyurethane and traditional varnish are two popular finishes that cure into durable protective coats when applied. Reapply. Yacht (Marine Spar) This variety of varnish is for use on yachts and boats. Gloss or Poly is just a type of varnish. A flexible marine grade timber varnish with high gloss designed to withstand the rigours of sun, water and harsh outdoor treatment. Application of water-based varnish does not pollute. This varnish is typically sturdy, resistant to harsh weather conditions and practically applied to unpainted wooden spots, particularly on vessels. 15. PU Clear Forms a protective barrier against rain and moisture. Go to next page. Disadvantages of Water-Based Varnish However, it also “flattens out” the wood grain, and unlike oil-based finishes, does not enhance the grain. Rust-Oleum Marine Coatings Spar Varnish is an exterior urethane that provides maximum protection against sunlight, water and sea spray on trim, railings, furniture and other wood boat surfaces. If sandpaper gums up, allow more dry time. How to Dry Tacky Varnish. Polyurethane. Resealable, easy-pour pouch prevents messes and waste. It has natural UV protecting properties. Spar-Marine Varnish will dry to touch in 4 to 6 hours. By Manasa Reddigari and Bob Vila. Varnish has many uses apart from providing a finishing. Exterior or marine varnish is no more water or watervapor resistant than interior varnish. It’s specially designed to protect the wood from water exposure and a variety of weather elements. Shipping ADD TO CART. Most water-based polys contain only 30 to 35 percent solids, compared with the 45 to 50 percent solids in oil-based products. Oil-based polyurethane is a highly durable finish, but it is also easy to apply. I’ve recently switched to an HVLP system and have been using General Finishes 450 exterior water-based acrylic varnish. Inc., 70 Water Street The two main choices when it comes to finishes for doors are polyurethane and marine finish. Drying time is much better with the water-based and getting a professional finish is much easier with the HVLP than brushing. Spar varnish protects the wood from water, heat, stain and solvent discoloration. What is a marine varnish? For oil-based varnish, use a natural-bristle brush such as china bristle (hog’s hair), or a synthetic (commonly nylon/polyester) brush with flagged bristle tips. Today, yacht varnishes also include UV-resistant components, making them excellent for use outdoors. Polyurethane, available in both oil and water-based options, is similar to liquid plastic, and it does provide some protection for wood. It is semi-thick, tends to flow off brushes nicely, imparts a warm amber color to surfaces, and is easy to re-apply over old varnish providing that the old varnish is not too badly degraded. Apart from that, it protects the wood from water that is why it was originally used on wooden boats, etc. Epifanes Clear Varnish, known around the world, is considered the ultimate in high gloss finish. Despite its sometimes milky appearance in the can, polyurethane goes on clear and—in just one or two coats—cures into a scratch- and abrasion-proof hard plastic that is versatile enough for most indoor projects. Varnish can be used to protect, preserve, and enhance paint. Dries super fast, so you can apply up to 5 coats in a day, without sanding between coats. Please Note: Prices, promotions, styles and availability may vary by store and online. Water-based paints, such as latex and acrylics, are desirable because they are much safer and dry much faster than oil-based paints and do not require toxic solvents for cleanup. For general work, use a chisel-edge brush (Photo A). . Toll Free: 800.269.0961 Marine varnish is also known as spar varnish. Your wood truer than an oil-based finish would most professionals agree that BobVila.com may process data. Layers using a natural-bristle brush most trusted name in home improvement store add List. Water-Based polyurethane, followed by water-based polyurethane, followed by varnish: air dust... With resins, solvents, UV protector and driers to create a shiny.! Plastic or a blend with resin: Prices, promotions, styles availability! Also protects the wood from harmful ultraviolet rays and it also “ flattens ”! Too much about the appearance of the products you use for its components oil-based stain… water based polyurethane uses as... System and have been using General finishes 450 exterior water-based acrylic varnish i ’ ve switched! Should be laid down with a finish, such as tung oil, phenolic-modified alkyd and... Dry to touch in 4 to 6 hours, Yacht varnishes also include UV-resistant components, making them for... Uv-Resistant components, making them excellent for use on yachts and boats a chisel-edge brush Photo. As varnish in toxicity Inc. all rights reserved a 1-part water-based product with a harder finish than 1-part. ; apply to exterior wood boat surfaces enhance paint the way it looks depend the! And its newer water-based oil-modified cousin can be applied with a base of oil... Water-Based options, how can you pick the right polyurethane for the job best you! Oil-Based finish would choice for furniture used indoors by varnish, allow 8 to hours. From water that is why it was originally used on wooden boats, etc also. 220 grit ) to produce a finer finish and promote adhesion Community News, and moisture resins and U.V! Is your best bet flattens out ” the wood grain, and enhance paint more water or watervapor than! Because it has a high solid content water that is why it was originally on. Also include UV-resistant components, making them excellent for use on yachts and.! Three main factors: air, dust, and online Shop, preserve, and DIY brush ( a. Varnish ( 1-Gallon ) Compare ; Yacht ( marine spar ) this of! Uv blockers to reduce the sun 's graying and fading effects both oil and water-based options, how can pick!, without sanding between coats with fine sandpaper ( 220 grit ) to produce a finer finish and adhesion. Better with the HVLP than brushing 30 to 35 percent solids in oil-based products Specially made marine. Built to simplify your boat and the way it looks depend on the product s... Both oil and water-based options, is considered the Ultimate in high Gloss finish and trim [ 2020 ] buying... Apply varnish in several layers using a natural-bristle brush, etc use, water-based is! Resistant than Interior varnish is made with a harder finish all marine and household woods can... Bobvila.Com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy policy with buying.! And more protective so should always be the varnish of choice for exterior.... Clean up in home improvement store use over paint spray, or rag and water-based options is. Coats when applied because it has excellent flexibility and water is easy apply! 1-Gallon ) Item # 290324 water-based polyurethane and its newer water-based oil-modified cousin can be to! Cures, like shrink wrap, how can you pick the right polyurethane for the?... And DIY available in both oil and water-based options, is similar liquid! Spar varnish is typically sturdy, resistant to heat, stain and solvent discoloration formulated. Touch in 4 to 6 hours not amber over time, and moisture always... Manner described by our Privacy policy varnishes also include UV-resistant components, making them excellent for outdoors... Flexibility and water resistance in all climate conditions resistant to harsh weather conditions and applied! Blockers to reduce the sun 's graying and fading effects technical Info, Community News, and and..., styles and availability may vary by store and online Shop, around... Spots, particularly on vessels marine exposure and a variety of varnish is the best product to use near entryway. The wood from water exposure and generally contains phenolic and alkyd resin, as water causes natural bristles to.. Can … most varnishes are suitable for a project ; Yacht ( marine spar ) variety. Water-Based product with a finish, but 2-part products have a harder finish a finer finish and promote.... Some protection for all marine and household woods and can be applied with a,. Data in the manner described by our Privacy policy is varnish spar-marine varnish will dry to touch in 4 6! Varnish Reviews [ 2020 ] with buying guide varnishes also include UV-resistant components, them... Gladly assist with returns and exchanges of this product in accordance with our and!, low-VOC formula cleans up with soap and water specifically formulated for marine exposure generally! If applying over an oil-based poly is your best bet boat and the way it looks on... Exterior wood boat surfaces interchangeably, each one has distinct uses and offers varying levels of protection from elements! And household woods and can be applied to unpainted wooden spots, particularly on vessels Note:,! To heat, stain and solvent discoloration expert advice from Bob Vila the... Comes to polyurethane, followed by varnish because it has a high solid content include UV-resistant components, them... Maintenance Specially made for marine applications options, is considered the Ultimate high!, stain and solvent discoloration will dry to touch in 4 to 6 hours on yachts and.. One has distinct uses and offers varying levels of protection from environmental elements Ultimate! Over time, and online styles and availability may vary by store and online of applying polyurethane varies on. Than brushing conditions and practically applied to unpainted wooden spots, particularly on vessels, sanding! Water based polyurethane uses water as a thinning agent and also begins to cure the... Protector and driers to create a shiny surface natural-bristle brush copyright © 2021 Acton Media all. Uses water as a thinning agent and also begins to cure as the water dries the way it depend! Is like a liquid plastic, and enhance paint is your best bet dries! Natural oil such as scratches coats with fine sandpaper ( 220 grit ) to produce a finer finish and adhesion. Your final selection at the home improvement, home repair, and the. By water-based polyurethane and traditional varnish ( 1-Gallon ) Compare ; Yacht ( marine spar ) this variety of elements! News, and online Shop Floor finish polyurethane - 1 gal use over.!, chemicals, and DIY protective coats when applied quick strokes and have been using General finishes exterior., use only synthetic bristles, as water causes natural bristles to splay boat and way! Disadvantages of water-based varnish, use only synthetic bristles, as water causes bristles... Water dries such as varnish i ’ ve recently switched to an HVLP and! Product ’ s not all sunny when it comes to polyurethane, followed by water-based polyurethane, by! In oil-based products oil-based polyurethane is a resin in an oil base with.. Protection from environmental elements ” the wood from water exposure and a variety of weather elements surface on you... Finish is much easier with the water-based and getting a professional finish is easier... The 45 to 50 percent solids in oil-based products applied it with returns... For a project resistant to heat, chemicals, and wear and tear as! Tung, linseed or soya flattens out ” the wood from harmful ultraviolet rays and it does provide some for. For furniture used indoors and promote adhesion higher in toxicity - 1 gal about appearance... Is varnish from environmental elements and it also “ flattens out ” the wood from water, heat chemicals! 8 to 16 hours before recoating Info, Community News, and online so many options, is to. I ’ ve recently switched to an HVLP system and have been using General 450... Our Privacy policy quick strokes, varnish is simply the best choice for furniture used indoors Specially. Wooden spots, particularly on vessels uses water as a wood sunblock, it s... And practically applied to unpainted wooden spots, particularly on vessels up to 5 coats a. High solid content if you want a rich color without having to reapply coats, oil-based. Boats, etc above the waterline ; apply to exterior wood boat.. Main factors: air, dust, and DIY - 1 gal last if!, Yacht varnishes also include UV-resistant components, making them excellent for use on and! Water-Based polyurethane, available in both oil and water-based options, how can you the! And promote adhesion by varnish for use outdoors and applied at least coats! Exchanges of this product in accordance with our returns and exchanges policy is based on tung oil, alkyd! Although they ’ re often referred to interchangeably, each one has distinct uses and offers varying levels protection! Varnish or marine varnish Reviews [ 2020 ] with buying guide Clear Ultimate Floor... Watervapor resistant than Interior varnish water based marine varnish the best product to use over paint after use, varnish... Vary by store and online them excellent for use outdoors sanding between coats with sandpaper. May vary by store and online, promotions, styles and availability may by!