: Just a quick reminder for those using S3 LPU: If you don't have a perfectly
: prepared epoxy base you WILL have adhesion issues. Don't sand any finer
: than P180 and wash the surface with only clean water (distilled is the
: best). Any surface contaminates will cause issues.

I sanded to 400 grit wet/dry before applying and didn't have any adhesion problems. My first boat lasted four years before having to re-apply -- and it could have probably gone a couple more years but I decided to refinish the entire boat rather than do a few spot repairs.

LPU will show imperfections more than varnish because the LPU is very thin and won't fill small scratches (i.e., sand marks) as well as varnish. Your preparation of the final surface must be done well.

Surface contaminants will cause problems regardless of the finish applied.

I've now applied LPU on four boats and will be doing a fifth soon and haven't run into the problems that you mention and think that it's a far superior finish to varnish as it's much tougher and more durable -- although it is definitely more difficult to apply. For me, water bourne finishes are "there" -- they're just different than varnish and need more care and attention when applying.

Dan

http://www.westcoastpaddler.com

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