Inspecting the Hull
When choosing a wood finish, knowing the pros and cons of each finish type is helpful. One- and two-part varnishes are clear, hard coatings that offer a deep, classic mirror-like finish. Prep, application, and re-application are more labor-intensive than with other finishes and require a more skilled hand, but they usually need less frequent maintenance and are more durable.
The top selling point for varnish alternatives is their ease of application: They require fewer coats than varnish, dry faster, and require little or no sanding between coats. The softer, flexible finishes need to be re-applied more frequently than varnish and generally do not last as long, but re-application and maintenance are a breeze. Although some can be overcoated with a glossy sealer, they don’t have the high-gloss finish of a hard varnish and often are pigmented. These opaque stains mask the woods grain somewhat but are touted as offering better UV protection than traditional clear varnishes.
Teak oils and sealers are favored for their ease of application, nonskid properties, and resistance to blistering. They are not as durable as other finishes and require frequent re-application, but they are easier to maintain. Teak-oil critics say they attract dirt and encourage mold and mildew growth, which we found to be true in some of our test panels. (For more pros and cons of various wood coatings and a wood finishes primer, view the online version of this article at www.practical-sailor.com.)
For even more expert advice on how to finish your boat, purchase Don Caseys Sailboat Refinishing from Practical Sailor.
