Spar varnish, also known as marine varnish, is a high gloss finish used for outdoor wooden furniture to protect against temperature changes and UV rays. It is flexible and waterproof, made with tung oil and linseed oil, and should be applied in thin coats with a good quality bristle brush. Sand and clean the surface before applying additional coats.
Spar varnish is a high gloss product used for outdoor applications including wooden furniture. It is also known as “marine varnish”. This type of varnish is made to provide protection against changes in temperature, as well as the ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Wood is a living product and responds to changes in temperature by expanding during warm weather and contracting when the mercury in the thermometer drops. Varnishes made for outdoor use must have a certain degree of flexibility, or the finish will crack. Spar varnish is also waterproof as exposure to moisture will cause the wood to rot over time.
Light amber in color, this finish is made with tung oil and linseed oil, as well as phenolic resins. The best grades of Spar varnish have a higher level of tung oil in the product. Some manufacturers produce a product that does not contain any flaxseed oil. Linseed oil breaks down over time and causes the finish to deteriorate.
Before using Spar varnish, carefully read the instructions on the packaging. They will indicate how long it will take for the product to dry. Another important information on the label is the recoat time. The user will need to give the varnish some time to cure between coats, and it is better to apply several thin coats than one thick one.
Another piece of advice that will be listed in the instructions is whether the product needs to be diluted with mineral spirits before use. Adding 5 to 10 percent mineral spirits will help the varnish come off the brush more smoothly. Pour some of the varnish into a separate container before adding the mineral spirits. Do not return diluted varnish to original container after use.
A good quality bristle brush should be used to apply this product. Look for tapered bristles when choosing one. Dip brush into bowl and press against side to remove any excess product before brushing. This product works best when applied to a small area at a time. Excessive brushing creates bubbles on the surface where the neck varnish is applied.
Before applying a second or third coat of Spar Clear, sand the surface well. It should be wiped clean to remove any dirt, dust or particles before adding more varnish. Always let the varnish dry completely between coats.
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