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When it comes to protecting your wood surfaces, you have a lot of great products to choose from. Spar varnish and spar urethane are two of the most popular options on the market, but Spar Varnish Vs Spar Urethane what’s the difference between them?
Both spar varnish and spar urethane have their pros and cons, so the best choice for your project will depend on your specific needs. If you need a durable finish that can withstand harsh conditions, spar varnish is the better choice. However, if you need an easy-to-apply finish with little odor, spar urethane is the way to go.
Both spar varnish and spar urethane are clear finishes that are applied to wood to protect it from the elements. They are both durable and long-lasting, but there are some key differences that you should be aware of before making your final decision.
What Is Spar Urethane?
Spar urethane is a crystal clear sealant perfect for wooden surfaces exposed to the elements. Its polyurethane base is enhanced with components that make it more durable against ultraviolet rays and rain than standard polyurethanes, making it an ideal choice for those invested in protecting their outdoor investments.
Spar urethane, a combination of polyurethane resin, solvents, and additives is formulated to provide enduring strength and sleek application. These additives not only make the product suitable for outdoor use but also makes it resistant to UV rays and moisture – essential qualities in any exterior coating.
When to Use Spar Urethane
Spar Urethane is ideal for outdoor woodwork that is exposed to sunlight and other weather elements. Some of the applications where Spar Urethane is recommended include:
- Exterior Doors: Exterior doors are vulnerable to a variety of weather conditions, including sun, rain, and snow. Spar Urethane safeguards against long-term damage caused by these elements with its resilient and watertight finish. Protect your woodwork for years to come with this reliable product!
- Window Sills and Frames: With Spar Urethane, window sills, and frames are guarded against moisture deterioration and rotting, significantly more so than if they had not been coated. This powerful solution can protect these surfaces from water damage to maintain their longevity.
- Decking: With decks being exposed to the harsh elements of sunlight, moisture, and consistent walking traffic, it’s easy for woodwork to suffer wear over time. Spar Urethane steps in with a hard-wearing finish that safeguards against any harm while maintaining its appearance for years.
- Outdoor Furniture: In case you’re looking for protection against the elements, Spar Urethane offers a fortified finish that can help keep your outdoor furniture in excellent condition over time. Its strong and resilient properties will preserve the woodwork from weather damage while maintaining its beauty, a perfect match to ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.
Advantages of using Spar Urethane over Spar Varnish:
- Greater Durability: With its superior toughness, Spar Urethane is the ideal choice for woodwork that will be exposed to extreme weather conditions. Its durability far surpasses that of any traditional Spar Varnish, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- UV Protection: With its UV inhibitors, Spar Urethane shields your woodwork from the damaging rays of the sun.
- Faster Drying Time: If you’re on a tight timeline, Spar Urethane is an ideal choice due to its rapid drying capabilities in comparison to Spar Varnish.
- Easy Application: Spar Urethane is a breeze to apply, as it can be utilized with any of the following tools: roller, brush or spray gun.
How To Apply Spar Urethane in 8 Steps
Tools Needed
- Spar urethane
- Sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Paint roller
- Paint sprayer
- Paint thinner
- Surface preparation: Preparation is key when it comes to applying spar urethane, just like with any other varnish. Make sure the surface you are working on is free of dust and debris by using fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool to lightly sand it. This will create a coarse texture for the urethane to adhere better. Once that’s done, use a tack cloth to wipe away all traces of dust or particles before starting your project.
- Choosing the right urethane: When selecting a spar urethane for your project, be sure to consider the specific needs of that particular area – think about UV exposure and moisture resistance. Additionally, some varieties are designed with flexibility in mind; this is ideal when using on materials prone to movement from expansion/shrinkage (like boats constructed out of wood).
- Mixing and thinning the urethane: To preserve the quality of spar urethane, be sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s directions for mixing and thinning. You must use a clean container when preparing your product, as well as add precisely the amount of thinner that is listed on the label.
- Applying the first coat: To begin, apply a thin and consistent layer of spar urethane with your brush, roller, or sprayer. Ensure you’re moving in the same direction as the wood grain to ensure even coverage without any drips or runs; be sure not to over-apply this first coat.
- Sanding between coats: After the first layer of urethane is allowed to dry according to product specifications, use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly roughen the surface texture. This ensures a tight bond between coats. Then utilize a tack cloth carefully wipe away any dust particles that may have settled onto the area during sanding and other prep work.
- Applying subsequent coats: For optimal protection, apply a few additional layers of spar urethane, utilizing the same application technique as you did for the first layer. Most projects will necessitate two to three coats of urethane at minimum.
- Allowing the finish to cure: Ensure that the last layer of spar urethane is totally dry, as indicated in the manufacturer’s guide. The drying time may change depending on your environment’s temperature and moisture levels; it could take a few days to be fully dried out.
- Applying maintenance coats: To extend the lasting beauty of your finish and guard against damage, consider applying additional coats of spar urethane over time. Utilizing precisely the same technique as with the original application – sanding between layers and allowing ample dry time – will help ensure a resilient coating that lasts for years to come.
What is Spar Varnish?
Spar Varnish is a type of varnish that is specially designed for use on outdoor woodwork. It is composed of natural oils, resins, and solvents that make it more resistant to weathering, water, and UV rays. Spar Varnish is an ideal choice for surfaces that are exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as boats, decks, and outdoor furniture.
When to Use Spar Varnish
Spar Varnish is ideal for indoor woodwork and outdoor woodwork that is not exposed to harsh weather conditions. Some of the applications where Spar Varnish is recommended include:
- Interior Doors and Trim: From interior doors to trims, Spar Varnish provides an exquisite glossy finish that will elevate the look of your home.
- Wooden Boats: Spar Varnish is an ideal solution for wooden boat building and restoration, offering a reflective sheen that will protect the wood from water damage. Its durability makes it perfect for protecting your vessel against natural elements.
- Musical Instruments: Applying Spar Varnish to musical instruments such as guitars, violins, and pianos brings out a sophisticated sheen that is both ornamental and resilient.
- Fine Furniture: Spar Varnish exquisitely accentuates fine furniture, creating a glass-like surface that highlights the intricate details and beauty of the wood.
Advantages of using Spar Varnish over Spar Urethane:
- Greater Gloss Level: Spar Varnish is the perfect choice for projects needing an extra glossy shine, as it provides a higher gloss level than Spar Urethane.
- Longer Drying Time: Spar Varnish has an extended curing period when compared to Spar Urethane; allowing it to spread out and settle, providing a smoother finish.
- Easier to Repair: Unlike Spar Urethane, repairs to Spar Varnish are a breeze; sanding and recoating are all that’s required – no need for hazardous chemicals.
- Lower Cost: For some projects, Spar Varnish provides an economical alternative to Spar Urethane due to its lower cost.
How to Remove Spar Varnish in 8 Steps
Tools Needed
- Safety Gear
- Sandpaper
- Paint scrapper
- Chemical stripper
- Tack cloth
When you need to remove the old varnish from your wooden surface, here is a step-by-step guide to help you do it safely and effectively.
Preparation for Varnish Removal
Before you begin scraping off the varnish, make sure your workspace is sufficiently ventilated and that you are equipped with all of the necessary protective gear. To protect yourself from any exposure to chemicals or dust particles, grab a pair of gloves, safety glasses and a mask. Additionally, lay down a drop cloth on the floor for further protection. Don’t forget about hardware either; remove any hinges or knobs which may be attached to your wooden surface before wiping it clean.
Sanding and Scraping Off the Old Varnish
When tackling the task of removing varnish, sanding and scraping are your two most reliable options. For flat surfaces, a coarse grit sandpaper is appropriate – apply pressure in the same direction as the grain for best results. However, if you’re dealing with curves or hard-to-reach spaces that cannot be sanded down, scraping offers an ideal solution; use a paint scraper to delicately scrape away layers of varnish until it’s gone.
Applying Chemical Stripper
In case sanding and scraping don’t get rid of all the varnish, a chemical stripper can be your saving grace. Apply it with a brush or sprayer according to what’s advised by the manufacturer. Once you’ve given it enough time for its effects to take place, you’ll witness how the varnish starts bubbling and becoming softer.
Scrubbing and Rinsing the Surface
After the varnish has been softened, take a scrub brush and carefully loosen it from the wood grain, being mindful to go in one direction. Once you’ve removed as much of the varnish as possible, rinse off any residue with water until your surface is clean and dry.
Neutralizing the Stripper
Stripping most surfaces results in an alkaline residue, so it’s essential to re-establish a neutral pH after the stripping process is complete. You can either use a pre-prepared wood surface neutralizer or mix equal parts of vinegar and water until you have attained a solution suitable for wiping down your working area. This will help restore the natural acidic balance in timber, protecting its integrity long term.
Sanding the Surface
After your surface has dried, sand it once more with fine-grained sandpaper to eliminate any lingering varnish residue and iron out all the bumps.
Cleaning and Drying the Surface
Before you apply a new finish, it is important to ensure that the surface is immaculately clean and dry. Wipe away any dirt or particles with a tack cloth for ideal results.
Applying a New Finish
After the surface is completely cleared and dry, it’s time to apply your new finish. Stick to the instructions provided by the manufacturer and make sure you are in a well-ventilated area before beginning.
How to Apply Spar Varnish in 8 Steps
Tools Needed
- Sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Spar Varnish
- Paint roller
- Sealer
- Paint thinner
If you are planning to apply spar varnish to a wooden surface, here is a step-by-step guide to help you do it effectively.
Surface Preparation
To ensure a flawless finish, it is essential to start with an immaculate base. Use a tack cloth to eliminate any dust or debris that may be on the surface and if there are imperfections or rough spots, sand them down using fine-grit sandpaper for maximum smoothness before applying the varnish.
Choosing the Right Varnish
When selecting spar varnish, be sure to go with a dependable product designed specifically for outdoor use. It is essential that the chosen varnish possesses quality UV protection and can withstand changing weather conditions such as moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Mixing and Thinning the Varnish
Before beginning your varnish project, vigorously stir the contents of the can to ensure that no settling has occurred. If it’s too thick for easy application, thinning with mineral spirits or paint thinner is an option – just remember to check and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions!
Applying the First Coat
To create a flawless finish, use a premium brush to apply thin coats of spar varnish in the direction of the grain. Make sure each layer is spread out evenly while avoiding any drips or runs. Once finished, leave it to dry as per your chosen manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Sanding Between Coats
Once the first coating has dried, lightly sand the area with fine-grained sandpaper to create a smooth finish. This will not only help repair any blemishes but also guarantee that additional layers adhere properly.
Applying Subsequent Coats
To achieve the desired result, lightly sand between each coat of varnish that you apply. The number of coats needed will vary depending on your product and the state of the surface. Pay attention to what is indicated by the manufacturer regarding how many layers should be applied and what time intervals there should be between them.
Allowing the Finish to Cure
After applying all the layers of varnish, make sure to wait for it to cure properly by its manufacturer’s guidelines. The curing period will vary depending on which product you choose but is typically several days up to one week.
Applying Maintenance Coats
Over time, the spar varnish you applied will eventually become worn due to its exposure to different conditions. To keep your surface looking great and protected against further damage, reapplication of the varnish is necessary every year or so. Start by cleaning off any debris on the surface before applying a thin layer of fresh varnish following similar steps as when it was first applied.
Differences Between Spar Varnish and Urethane
- Durability and lifespan: Spar urethane is a superior option compared to spar varnish given its heavy concentration of resilient, long-lasting urethane resin. This ensures an impenetrable shield that can endure daily wear and tear for quite some time before needing reapplication, unlike various coats of spar varnish needed regularly to retain its protective covering.
- UV protection: Though both spar varnish and urethane provide sufficient UV protection, the latter is notably more successful in blocking out harmful rays due to its increased levels of UV inhibitors.
- Appearance and color retention: As a renowned clear urethane, Spar defends surfaces from discoloration for years to come. Without its yellowing effect, it preserves the natural hue of whatever is underneath – an attribute invaluable on woodwork in particular. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a warmer tint that develops over time with age and exposure to light, then opt for traditional spar varnish instead; this can darken and become more amber-like after some wear.
- Gloss level: With Spar Urethane, you can choose between a matte satin finish and an ultra-shiny high gloss option; in contrast, your options with Spar Varnish are more limited.
- Ease of application: Compared to varnish, the process of applying Spar Urethane is much more straightforward thanks to its self-leveling nature and capacity for thin coats.
- Drying time: Spar urethane dries faster than spar varnish, permitting quicker recoating and diminishing the possibility of dust settling on the coating while it’s being dried.
- Maintenance requirements: Spar varnish and urethane both require regular maintenance to sustain their protective qualities; however since it is more enduring, less frequent upkeep may be necessary with spar urethane.
- Cost: Although spar urethane is typically costlier than its alternative, spar varnish, due to the greater resin content and UV protection it contains. In the grand scheme of things though, considering its increased longevity and durability that make up for the higher price tag in comparison; investing in a quality form of spar urethane will be more economical over time.
Related: Top 7 Best Exterior Finish for Mahogany 2021 [Updated]
FAQs
What is the difference between Spar Varnish and regular varnish?
Spar Varnish is specially crafted for outdoor use and incorporates UV inhibitors, giving it the ability to withstand elemental damage like sunlight. In contrast, the traditional varnish isn’t formulated with these protections in mind and should only be used on indoor projects that won’t face exposure to inclement weather.
What is the difference between Spar Urethane and regular urethane?
When it comes to Spar Urethane versus traditional urethanes, the distinguishing factor lies in their UV inhibitors. Specifically formulated for outdoor use, Spar Urethane can withstand even the toughest of weather conditions – including those pesky UV rays! In contrast, regular urethane is best suited for projects that will remain indoors and away from extreme temperatures or other harsh elements.
How long does Spar Varnish last?
Applying and maintaining Spar Varnish can extend its life up to two years, but the length of time it lasts is largely dependent on exposure to the weather. With care and diligence, you can enjoy your varnished materials for an extended period.
How long does Spar Urethane last?
The life of Spar Urethane is contingent upon the degree of exposure to the environment. When applied and maintained correctly, its longevity can reach up to two years before a reapplication is necessary.
Can Spar Varnish be used on interior woodwork?
Spar Varnish is designed for outdoor use, yet it can alternatively be used inside. Although, you may want to consider other options due to their greater cost and the higher gloss levels in comparison with standard varnishes.
Can Spar Urethane be used on interior woodwork?
Spar Urethane is usually crafted with exterior woodwork in mind, but it can be used to finish interior surfaces as well. Although Spar Urethane may work for the project you have in mind, bear in mind that its cost and glossy look are higher than regular urethanes; thus, it might not be the ideal choice for your indoor job.
Conclusion
Deciding between Spar Varnish and Spar Urethane for your outdoor woodwork projects can be perplexing, yet by understanding their disparities you will be able to come to a well-informed conclusion. Both have pros as well as cons that need consideration when selecting the most appropriate one for the job at hand. Knowing which is best suited must take into account the requirements of your project to achieve the desired results.
Traditional Spar Varnish offers a glossy finish and great UV protection, but requires regular maintenance and has a limited lifespan. Alternatively, Spar Urethane is an advanced technology that provides greater durability, requires less upkeep over time, and will last you much longer.
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