: Guys, I know a lot of SOF builders use Zar varnish for a skin coating. Cheap,
: easy to find, works well.

: Would you recommend it for a S&G varnish?

:
: http://www.ugl.com/zarWoodFinishing/zarExteriorPolyurethane/zarUltraExteriorPoly.php

: Seems to be the only exterior varnish on the site, has UV inhibitors, and
: dries in 2 hours. Sounds good to me!

: I can get Epiphanes, Pettit Captains Varnish, or Interlux Schooner, but I'm
: wondering if the added expense it worth it? Also, I read either here or
: QUSA forum that Epiphanes takes a week to cure (?!!!?) I like the idea of
: a 2 hour cure, I can tell you...

: Thanks,
: Brian

: Thanks,
: Brian

I've used a bunch of different varnishes. I've started using Z-Spar's Captain's varnish for most everything, recommended by Rob Macks at Laughing Loon. Easier to apply than most and gives a great finish that's long lasting.

If you're in a hurry, the initial coats of varnish (assuming you want a pretty varnish job, takes several coats) can be applied with Interlux's Jet Speed varnish, you can apply 2 and sometimes 3 coats in a day without sanding between coats. The Jet Speed though has no UV resistance at all so needs another varnish for the top couple of coats.

Btw, only wet sand varnish when sanding is needed.

Bill H.