Refinishing wood trim inside cockpit what to use

[Fasman]

The person who owned the boat before me...used some varnish...it is peeling so I am sanding the plywood veneer down and wonder what is the best.<br /><br />Also the teak deck back to sanded state and using teak oil<br /><br />any sugg???

 

[ED21]

Re: Refinishing wood trim inside cockpit what to use

I still like varnished wood, although teak doesn't hold varnish well in my experience.<br />The secret to varnish is:<br />Use a good marine varnish w/ UV protection. <br />Sand & prep the wood(completely strip if it's in bad shape). <br />Apply multiple coats(at least 3 or 4)per instructions w/ a light sanding between coats.<br />Don't put the coats on too thick & do it w/ good lighting.<br />Finally keep it covered if possible when not using the boat and maintain it by inspecting it & touching it up when cracks or scratches are discovered-basically a spring & fall thing where I live, more in the south.<br />Then every now & then a light sanding w/ an additional coat or 2.<br />There's nothing like some nice varnished accents on a boat.

 

[Nikko]

Re: Refinishing wood trim inside cockpit what to use

Cetol is another product that's gaining in popularity. It's pricey, but it works. If you use it, apply their recomended three coats. It really does make a difference.<br /><br />When putting a finish on teak (or any other oily wood), wipe it down with acetone just before you apply the first finish coat. This will remove any residual surface oil and will allow for better adhesion of the finish. <br /><br />The inevitable peeling will happen, but this will postpone it.<br /><br />Nikko