Generally speaking, marine varnish is used to embellish and preserve the wood of the boat. It is often used to protect the vessel from various aggressions produced by navigation and is indeed applied on traditional boats. The protection given to the vessel can extend the life of the boat.
Which marine varnish should I choose?
There are several types of marine varnish and it can be quite difficult to choose one. So what are the different categories?
- In terms of composition, there are two types of marine varnish: one-component and two-component. The single-component varnish is suitable for use on marine veneered backings. The two-component varnish used to protect the plywood.
- With regard to the finish of the varnish, a distinction is made between: gloss varnish and matt varnish. Gloss marine varnish guarantees a glossy coating for your ship. Matt marine varnish is a sober varnish.
- When it comes to the colour of the varnish, there are colourless and tinted varnishes. By its name, clear varnish does not add any colour to the wood. In contrast to colourless varnish, tinted varnish gives your wood a new look.
How do you apply marine varnish?
Before the procedure, you must first prepare the woodwork to improve the adhesion of the paint on the surface. Repair the woodwork and remember to cut off any worn areas. Traces of the old varnish should be removed by sanding without solvent. To complete the sanding, use manual sanding sheets while working in the direction of the wood. To revive the colour of the wood and modernise the adhesion of the marine varnish, apply an undercoat. The varnish is applied with a brush and at least 3 to 5 uniform and homogeneous coats. The recommended drying time between each coat is 24 hours.
What is a polyurethane varnish?
Polyurethane varnish is a very tough type of varnish formulated so that its microscopic chains of resin molecules bind deeply as they dry. This results in a more water, solvent, abrasion and impact resistant finish than conventional varnishes. There are two types of polyurethane varnish: water-based and oil-based.
Water-based polyurethane varnish
Water-based polyurethane varnish can offer a range of choices of different qualities and durability. It is recommended to choose a varnish that contains urethane to obtain the best quality. This type of varnish does not produce any odour and is not harmful to health. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane varnish is less resistant to calcium resulting from the outdoors, such as snow on boots in winter. It is therefore advisable to protect floors with water-based polyurethane varnish.
Oil-based polyurethane varnishes
Oil-based polyurethane varnish, also known as Varathane, is an economical and easy-to-apply product for wood floors. However, it can give off a strong odour when applied. This varnish tends to have a yellowish tinge. It has low scratch resistance, which means that it needs to be restored more often. This type of varnish is not recommended as it can be harmful to the environment and health.
