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Z Spar Flagship Varnish Customer Questions and Answers
Question
I just put a new front porch on it is pine T&G and it is under roof and I have a big tree in the front yard, I don't want to paint it. I want to keep the natural look. Would this varnish work on it? It don't get hardley any sun.
Asked on 08/11/2012 by Zina GableTop Answer
I did sand between coats to both encourage adhesion and flatten the surface. Given your application, I would think two coats would be plenty. (I applied a minimum of 6 to the boat but that was to get a surface that literally looks like glass). I would strongly recommend buying a small sample and trying some on a board first to see if you like it how glossy it is and if you want to stain first etc.
Answered on 08/14/2012 by JOHN STIGLICHAnswer
I used this on a boat made of cedar, pine, ash, and oak. It flows extremely well, leaving virtually no brush marks. Best to put it on thin enough to just cover and build up as many coats as desired, sanding between coats. There are some areas I only used one or two coats successfully. It has also held up well exposed to the elements (over the last 4 years). It has a slight golden tint to it so will slightly darken the wood, a little more than when it it wet. I would not compare it to stain, it is much lighter. It is extremely glossy, so if you want a high shine it would be excellent, if you want something more "satinny" it may not be a good choice.
Answered on 08/13/2012 by JOHN STIGLICHAnswer
Absolutely, yes. I used this product on a swim ladder which has been exposed to sunlight, snow, harsh conditions, etc., and a year later it still looks great!
Answered on 08/13/2012 by BRIAN IRWINAnswer
john thank you so much for your input. When should I put this on, first thing in the morning? and do I have to sand it in between coats? Do I have to stain the boards first? This is my first time at doing this. My first home, and my first big project. Any suggestions would be helpful.
Answered on 08/14/2012 by Zina GableAnswer
You might want to consider an oil finish,one that will penetrate the wood more than the varnish would . Easier to recoat also . Tung oil or Watco, just make sure it is an oil that will dry well.
Answered on 08/13/2012 by KEN FOWLEAnswer
The underside is taken care of with moisture control products. I concerned with the top sealing it so no water gets down thru.
Answered on 08/14/2012 by Zina GableAnswer
It would be better to use a penetrating wood preservative/sealer that can breathe. With the underside of the porch not being finished there would be problems with moisture. Also, varnish is a higher maintenance finish than a penetrating sealer. I do use the Z-Spar finish on wood exposed to extreme moisture (boats), however all surfaces are sealed.
Answered on 08/13/2012 by CRAIG COVELLQuestion
can i use this varnish for outdoor wood furniture? what if i leave it out all winter?
Asked on 03/11/2014 by UndisclosedTop Answer
I have a redwood park bench which I used Z spar on. I put about 6 coats of varnish on it. If you leave it out year round figure on varnish peeling off after about 3 years. If you want it to look like new varnish annually.
Answered on 03/11/2014 by STEVE LOCKHARTAnswer
Well I used it on my front entry door of my house... it is shielded some from the direct weather... It has been ok now for about 3 or 4 years... but I don't think it would fair more than a year or to in direct weather unless you plan on re-coating every other year or so...
Answered on 03/11/2014 by RICHARD TALLMANAnswer
We used it on a bench, but didn't leave it outside over the winter. It's better than minwax or products you can purchase at a big box store. We purchased it to use on a wooden drift boat, and it has held up really well on that.
Answered on 03/13/2014 by TOBIN SHOREAnswer
Four years ago we began using this product on our redwood siding and built in patio benches and planters. We live in Minnesota so the varnish has been subjected to winter. It is holding up well for the most part. The flat areas on the south side have some cracking due to direct summer sun.
Answered on 03/11/2014 by GREGORY FISCHERAnswer
It will work on any wood just fine. This is easier to brush than products like Epiphanes. Ep has super luster and build but is thick. This one lets you apply a thin enough layer to avoid drips and sags. Start with a sealer for two coats and don't cut short on the number of coatings. Anything less than 5 total coats and you run the risk of sun getting underneath and peeling the finish. Good luck
Answered on 03/11/2014 by PETER SLOCUMAnswer
I don't know if you can let the varnish outdoor in winter. I know it protect from UV ray but I have never try to let a part with the varnish outside in winter... sorry not be able to inform you about that. I mainly use it inside on closet and cabinet. Michel
Answered on 03/13/2014 by MICHEL FORTINQuestion
what is the difference between the zspar flagship varnish and the zpar captain marine varnish? which one is more recomended for backyard decks?
Asked on 04/16/2013 by Rute AlvesTop Answer
I don't think I'd use either on a deck. I varnish the cabin and mast of my boat as well as the interior, but not a surface I walk on.
Answered on 04/17/2013 by FRANKLIN PAINEAnswer
I used it to finish my wood strip kayak. Very satisfied with the results.
Answered on 04/18/2013 by MICHAEL TURNERAnswer
Rute, This really isn't a product I would use for a back yard deck. It really isn't made for heavy traffic, IMHO, but more for sealing a wood surface that has long term contact or occasional contact with the water. In my opinion it is more for sealing and appearance than heavy wear. I don't think it would look very good if walked on regularly. If it were me, I would be looking for a good oil finish designed for sealing decks and that can be replenished fairly easily. A few products that come to mind are Pro Deck finish, Outlast deck finish, and a few others that slip my mind at the moment. Petit also makes some fine deck finishes, but I don't have the name of the product handy at the moment. Hope this was helpful. Bob
Answered on 04/18/2013 by BOB SCHULZAnswer
The Flagship varnish has more UV inhibitor- reportedly the most of commercially available varnishes. This is important as it allows better resistance to weathering and deterioration by sunlight.
Answered on 04/17/2013 by Rick ContestabileAnswer
Used Captains once tearss ago. Prefer flagship. Spreads easily and leaves a brighter finish. Don't know about decks.
Answered on 04/17/2013 by JAMES LAWLORAnswer
Alot of variables here, what part of the country do you live in, Dry of Moist? Is it on the North, south, side of a building, is it covered? Each will do the same, How many coats, why a deck? I would use CPES.. 5-7 coats. done. Don hardy MBW
Answered on 04/17/2013 by DON HARDYQuestion
What thinner should I use to thin Falgship varnish?
Asked on 08/16/2012 by Pete DotseyTop Answer
I used mineral spirits to good effect.
Answered on 08/20/2012 by JAN BECKAnswer
Any good quality paint thinner will work fine with Flagship Varnish, as with all varnishes which are oil based. I usually thin the first coat for raw wood approximately 10-15% for penetration. Apply the next coats full strength.
Answered on 08/17/2012 by BOB SCHULZAnswer
Pettit 120 brushing thinner
Answered on 08/18/2012 by ROBERT WILSONAnswer
Pete D. I have used this spar varnish for over 30 years. There is no other type or brand I will use. As far as thinning. I never thin it, straight from the can is how I use it. When it comes out straight and no thinning the varnish gives you a solid and deep base and that's the look you are looking for. I do use a good paint thinner or tupentine to clean my tools, brushes, etc. I cannot say enough about Jamestown. They will help you out anyway they can, just as they are doing now. Happy varnishing! You can't go wrong with Z Spar or Jamestown. Ralph K. Mobile, Al 1stSgt USMC Ret
Answered on 08/17/2012 by RALPH KNOXAnswer
Hi Pete, I've used the Epifanes thinner, which seems to work well but it is expensive. I have not found any varnish that lasts more then a year in my area. The second year it is peeling usually. I've tried around five brands with mostly three to four coats, it looks beautiful when done but sitting out in the open sun all day takes it's toll. Each time I have started with clean wood removing old varnish with a heat gun and light sanding. If you must work outside, like I do you will find the weather doesn't always cooperate so if you can do this in a controlled environment your results should be superior. This year I decided to try Sikkens Cetol Marine. It has coloring added and is a bit orange but I do like it and after 5 coats I'm hoping it will last a few years, so far so good. The best of luck to you Zig
Answered on 08/19/2012 by The Dude The DudeAnswer
I use Pettit 120 brushing thinner to reduce Z-Spar Flagship varnish when applying sealer coats to bare wood.
Answered on 08/17/2012 by GARY SOWARDQuestion
Can marine varnish be used on a slate patio?
Asked on 08/30/2012 by UndisclosedTop Answer
Using a marine varnish on a slate patio may not be a good idea. How would you prep for a new coat after it wears? Slate is rough and bumpy, not exactly given to sanding. Of course you could bead/sand blast it. You could go to a masonry/ tile outlet and look for sealers designed for rock, brick, and tile in an exterior applications. Those products are designed just for your application. Keep in mind any sealant or coating will need maintenance. Occasionally you will need to reapply the product your choose. Good luck finding your product.
Answered on 08/30/2012 by MATTHEW COMBESAnswer
I'm not entirely sure that I would use varnish on a patio. I only use it on wood in out shop and on boats but I can offer you one piece of advice. Varnish is actually soft. So if you walk on it and have any dirt on your shoes I would imagine that it would get scuffed up and look pretty bad. I have a wood boat with a Mahogany floor that is varnished. It looks great but it can easily be scratched if you're not careful. Adam
Answered on 08/30/2012 by REETS BOATWORKSAnswer
Sorry, I have no idea if it can be used on slate.
Answered on 09/11/2012 by DANIEL FUESSENICHAnswer
No idea, never used it on slate,
Answered on 08/30/2012 by ALAN BAMBINAAnswer
A couple of considerations- most marine varnishes are not formulated for constant foot traffic. Some are, specifically used on cabin soles, for example. Second- although weathering characteristics for marine varnishes are quite good, the use on a slate surface may not have the adherence which is to be obtained on a wood substrate. I would not recommend using on slate unless the heavy wear formulation varnish were tested.
Answered on 08/30/2012 by Rick ContestabileQuestion
how long to cure b4 i put in water?
Asked on 06/02/2012 by UndisclosedTop Answer
At least 24 hrs. but if you have 3 days that would be better.
Answered on 06/06/2012 by JAMES LITTLEAnswer
Several days in the sun will cure it hard. Can go in the water In 24 hrs
Answered on 06/05/2012 by JIM WHITESIDEAnswer
We frequently varnish on deck in the water without issues with cure but I am assuming you must be varnishing a bright hull. While I don't have personal experience with this I would wait at least a week for the finish to cure. This would be the rule of thumb for all oil based finishes.
Answered on 06/05/2012 by JOHN GORDONAnswer
I let mine dry for a week. This summer will be my seventh summer with this varnish
Answered on 06/06/2012 by MARK ROWEAnswer
I have used this product on 4 different kayak projects. It is an excellent product and is VERY durable. I recommend 3 coats, with a steel wool rub between each coat, and wait 24 hours before getting it wet. Should you experience any scratches, it is very easy to feather the edges of the scratch, and repair the damaged area. Flagship is the only product I use for finishing.
Answered on 06/06/2012 by BRYAN SHAWQuestion
high gloss finish for teak wood?
Asked on 05/29/2014 by UndisclosedTop Answer
Yes, high gloss for teak, mahogany, spruce or other wood.
Answered on 05/29/2014 by JEFFREY BARROWSAnswer
Good stuff. Easy to work. Epiphanes will give you more gloss than z spar. If its in the sun, go with the ep.
Answered on 05/29/2014 by PETER SLOCUMAnswer
It's all I use for exterior bright work. Prep is extremely important and I apply 10 coats. It looks great after five but will not stand up to FL sun more than few months. With an additional five coats it looks gorgeous and will take the sun A lot of work but from then on, once a year, a light sanding and two maybe three coats and you are good for another year I use 320 grit between coats.
Answered on 05/29/2014 by Cabo Sailor Cabo SailorAnswer
I wouldn't varnish Teak. Either oil or something like a Sikns finish.
Answered on 05/29/2014 by JEFFREY KESTERQuestion
does thuis varnish come in clear?
Asked on 02/19/2014 by UndisclosedTop Answer
I would tend to agree with Lawrence... it is really an amber color when applied... and I know of no Pettit varnish that doesn't give an amber hue of some type.
Answered on 03/11/2014 by RICHARD TALLMANAnswer
I have no idea. An answer should be easily obtained either from Jamestown or from Petit.
Answered on 02/19/2014 by WILLIAM E. MOOZAnswer
I'm not sure what is meant by clear. Flagship varnish is transparent but does have a slight tint, of what I would call bronze.
Answered on 02/19/2014 by LAWRENCE MURRAYAnswer
Not that I know of. Ask Pettit at Pettitpaint dot com. Their tech support has been responsive.
Answered on 02/19/2014 by ROGER SPREENQuestion
How do you clean the brush?
Asked on 06/01/2013 by UndisclosedTop Answer
I wrap the brush in cellophane and stick it in the freezer between coats. When I'm finished with the last coat, I either toss the brush or clean it with mineral spirits.
Answered on 08/04/2013 by Tom DeacyAnswer
Paint thinner or use a foam brush...no clean up
Answered on 06/01/2013 by CapeCodJim CapeCodJimAnswer
Start with lacquer thinner maybe two or three rinses,then mineral spirits tow or three,leave damp with m.s. and wrap the brush up. Also use either a spinner or wire brush.
Answered on 06/03/2013 by KEN FOWLEAnswer
Any decent paint thinner works fine to clean your brushes.
Answered on 06/01/2013 by BOB SCHULZQuestion
can i use on outdoor pine furniture?
Asked on 04/25/2012 by UndisclosedTop Answer
It is meant to be used on spruce spars, which is close to pine. In order to get UV protection from the finish 6 coats are needed . If you only put on a couple of coats it won't last long. Sand lightly with 320 in between coats.
Answered on 04/25/2012 by MICHAEL BAKSAAnswer
I would thin the first two coats significantly in order to get maximum penetration. Also try to get between mating surfaces to get some sealing in those areas. Finally, I would not use a high gloss finish coat on chairs and table tops if they will be in direct sunlight.
Answered on 04/26/2012 by CRAIG COVELLAnswer
I don't see why not. As long as you are aware that you will have to maintain this furniture by sanding and refinishing it. How often will depend on how much sun it gets. I have gotten very good performance from this product. The sun will wear it out in a year or two if there is constant exposure.
Answered on 04/25/2012 by JAMES LITTLEAnswer
Yes
Answered on 04/25/2012 by JOHNNY PROULX