Varnishing

[yotter]

I am varnishing some internal areas and was previously advised to get a not too glossy hard wearing surface using International Compass and Goldspar. But, I cannot remember what order to apply them (a few coats of each). It is the top step of the compaioway, so gets a bit of wear. I recall I was advised by a Swedish chap (who claimed to have been taught to varnish by Hallberg Rassy) that is was Compass (polyurethane) and then Goldspar (satin) on top. Does that make sense, seems more sensible to have the harder surface on top?

 

[Sumara of Weymouth]

I am varnishing some internal areas and was previously advised to get a not too glossy hard wearing surface using International Compass and Goldspar. But, I cannot remember what order to apply them (a few coats of each). It is the top step of the compaioway, so gets a bit of wear. I recall I was advised by a Swedish chap (who claimed to have been taught to varnish by Hallberg Rassy) that is was Compass (polyurethane) and then Goldspar (satin) on top. Does that make sense, seems more sensible to have the harder surface on top?

One reason why it is preferable to finish with a coat of satin is that the satin varnish will contain matting agents which will eventually slightly obscure the lovely wood grain if you apply too many coats. So it is best to build up with clear gloss and then apply a coat of satin on top. Generally hard varnishes(and always two pack) should never be applied on top of a softer varnish below. If you are applying satin in the hope it will be non-slip, then I am afraid it will probably make no difference and could even make it worse.

 

[yotter]

Many thanks for the post, it makes sense. I do not expect the satin to less slippy than the polyurethane, this is not the reason for the choice but good point. There are groves in the wood to provide grip. The previous varnish finish was presumable sprayed on polyurethane (2005 production French yacht)

 

[Pye_End]

I am varnishing some internal areas and was previously advised to get a not too glossy hard wearing surface using International Compass and Goldspar. But, I cannot remember what order to apply them (a few coats of each). It is the top step of the compaioway, so gets a bit of wear. I recall I was advised by a Swedish chap (who claimed to have been taught to varnish by Hallberg Rassy) that is was Compass (polyurethane) and then Goldspar (satin) on top. Does that make sense, seems more sensible to have the harder surface on top?

Coincidence. I am just rubbing down my floor for a re-coat - the kettle has fallen off the stove once too often. The last time I varnished it (some years ago now) it was with exactly this combination. The Compass is fairly high build so doesn't need that many coats. It did take a bit of work to get is as flat as I wanted at the time, but has been tough and durable coating. A random orbital sander between coats was handy, though perhaps a little loosening might work instead. Perhaps 2 or 3 coats of compass, followed by one or two of Goldspar max for the floor - probably less for your application.