Old Masters Spar Marine Varnish
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Old Masters Spar Marine Varnish, Oil-Based Exterior Clear Finish
Old Masters Spar-Marine Varnish is a clear, oil-based exterior varnish for wood. It dries to a flexible finish that stands up to water and weather, and it contains UV absorbers for sun protection. Use it on doors, railings, fences, lawn furniture and boat surfaces above the waterline. Choose Satin, Semi-Gloss or Gloss, in a spray can or a brush-on can.
Key Features
- Flexible, water-resistant film made for outdoor wood.
- UV absorbers to slow sun damage.
- Brush, pad or spray application; aerosol for small jobs.
- Interior approved for windowsills and door frames.
Where to Use It
Exterior doors, railings, fences, lawn furniture, boats and marine surfaces above the waterline. Indoors, use it on windowsills and door frames. For wood only. Do not use on wooden decks or steps, wood siding, log homes or wood boats below the waterline. Do not apply in direct sun or strong wind.
Sheens and Sizes
- Satin: low sheen that shows the grain.
- Semi-Gloss: a middle sheen with some depth.
- Gloss: the shiniest, for a bright marine look.
Clear, in aerosol, 473 mL, 946 mL and 3.79 L. Stock varies by size and sheen, so check the options above.
Oil-Based Spar Varnish or Ascend Water-Based?
This varnish is solvent-based: it needs about 8 to 16 hours between coats and cleans up with mineral spirits. Old Masters Ascend Exterior Water Based Clear Finish recoats in 1 to 2 hours and cleans up with soap and water, so it suits a faster job. Choose the oil-based varnish for a traditional spar-varnish finish.
Specs & Coverage
- 3.79 L: about 500 sq ft in theory; plan on 200–350 sq ft per coat in practice
- 946 mL: about 50–88 sq ft per coat. 473 mL: about 25–44 sq ft per coat
| Type | Exterior oil-based spar-marine varnish, clear |
| Coats | Minimum 3 for exterior surfaces |
| Dry time (21 °C, 50% RH) | Touch: 4–6 hours. Recoat: 8–16 hours (overnight suggested). Light use: 24 hours |
| Application temperature | 16–32 °C (60–90 °F) air and surface; 30–70% humidity |
| VOC | 350 g/L maximum (2.9 lb/gal) |
| Solids by volume | Satin 42.4%, Semi-Gloss 41.6%, Gloss 41.5% |
| Application | Pure bristle or polyester brush, flat pad or spray. Do not thin |
| Clean-up | Mineral spirits or paint thinner |
Application Guide
- Prep. Surfaces must be clean, dry and free of dirt, wax, grease and glue. Sand bare wood with medium to fine grit, with the grain. Sand old finishes with 220-grit.
- Check the weather. Work at 16–32 °C and 30–70% humidity, out of direct sun and wind. In Canada that usually means late spring to early fall, on a dry day with a dry night ahead.
- Stir, don't shake. Use the varnish as packaged. Don't thin it.
- Apply full, even coats with the grain and as little brushing as you can.
- Wait 8–16 hours (overnight is best), then sand lightly with 220-grit.
- Apply at least 3 coats outdoors. Allow 24 hours before light use.
- Dispose of rags safely. Rags, steel wool and sanding dust can catch fire on their own. Keep them in a sealed metal container with water.
FAQ
1How much varnish do I need for a front door?
A 36 × 80 in door is about 20 sq ft a side. Three coats on one side is 60 sq ft, so one 946 mL can does it. Both sides is about 120 sq ft, so buy two 946 mL cans or one 3.79 L can.
2Gloss, semi-gloss or satin?
Gloss gives the brightest, most marine look. Satin is the most subdued and shows the wood grain. Semi-Gloss sits between them.
3How many coats does it need?
Old Masters calls for a minimum of three coats on exterior surfaces. Sand lightly with 220-grit between coats.
4Can I apply it over old varnish?
Yes, if the old finish is sound. Clean it, sand it with 220-grit and wipe off the dust.
5Can I use it on a boat?
Yes, on wood above the waterline. Old Masters says not to use it on wood boats below the waterline.
6How often do I need to recoat?
Old Masters says surfaces in direct sun may need recoating every year to keep the gloss and prevent cracking and peeling.
7What is the best weather for applying it in Canada?
A calm, dry day between 16 and 32 °C, out of direct sun, with 30–70% humidity. Skip cool mornings and damp evenings.
8Aerosol or can: which should I buy?
Aerosol suits small pieces and tight spots such as spindles and trim. Choose a 473 mL, 946 mL or 3.79 L can for doors, railings and furniture, where you can brush or pad on full, even coats.
- Found a lower price elsewhere? We'll match it plus give you an extra 5% off the difference. Get the best deal guaranteed*
Canada Shipping
- Enjoy free shipping to Ontario and Quebec on orders over $249.
- Orders over $249 qualify for free shipping to all other provinces.
- Returns accepted within 35 days from the date of delivery.
- Custom tinted paints are classified as Final Sale items and are not eligible for return or store credit.