Wooden deck treatment advice wanted

[timmeo]

I'm currently renovating a 32ft Thames slipper launch. In the last couple of weeks I've stripped all the old varnish off the decks, and am now 80% of my way through sanding it all down to a lovely finish. One thing I'm a little worried about is the wood has started to lift in a couple of places. (Hardwood planking) Am I best off "moisturising" the wood before varnishing? Someone suggested linseed oil. The lifting is only a few mm so should be easily fixed however I don't want long term problems post varnishing.

 

[pcatterall]

Is the wood in strips with caulking ( black) mastic in the gaps? Wood is probably teak and varnish would not be the preferred finish.
However if it was previousy varnish and there are no leaks the varnish should work again. I would certainly NOT apply linseed oil then varnish. I would thin the first coat of varnish to make it penetrate then get several coats of varnish on.

 

[timmeo]

Wood is certainly not teak. Yes its caulked (caulking needs attention) I suspect it's mahogany. Tried to post a photo but its not working on my iPhone. Thanks for the tip regarding thinning down the varnish.

 

[tillergirl]

Can you say some more about the lifting? How are the strips fastened? Glued or screwed? Presumably glued if lifting. That could be a challenge - when was she made? Can you post a picture of the lifting? As to the varnish, it sounds like this is a quality craft requiring Epifanes varnish. First coat thinned 50%, second thinned 20%, third 10% then at least 4 coats of full strength stuff. As you get to the 3rd and 4th full strength coat you will (provided you lightly prepared the surface 220 grit paper) be achieving a mirror like finish. Do not go for a two-pot varnish as the deck will have too much movement.