Maintenance tips for varnished wood

In our webshop, you will find various clear varnish systems from Epifanes. These varnishes are all equipped with effective UV filters. A properly built varnish system with sufficient layer thickness will remain shiny for years and provide optimal protection for the wood against sunlight. Nevertheless, the same rule applies here: no clear varnish system is completely maintenance-free. Over time, maintenance will be required to keep the wood in top condition.

When is varnish maintenance needed?

The right moment to act is when the first loss of gloss becomes visible. Exactly when this occurs depends on the number of varnish coats applied as well as exposure to sunlight and weather conditions. If maintenance is delayed for too long, the varnish system will deteriorate further and may eventually peel off. To prevent this, it is wise to apply two or more new coats of varnish annually. Areas exposed to intensive UV radiation, such as horizontal surfaces, require extra attention and additional coats of varnish. Edges, corners, and toe rails also wear faster and therefore require a greater layer thickness. If the coating is too thin, the varnish system looks 'lean' and provides only limited UV protection.

Preparation for maintenance

Epifanes Clear Varnish and Epifanes Hardwood Gloss Finish can be applied over virtually all existing one-component and two-component yacht lacquers, regardless of the brand. Thorough degreasing and sanding beforehand are required. Epifanes Polyurethane Clear Gloss is suitable for almost all existing two-component varnish systems and over epoxy resin.

Ensure that the substrate is always completely dry and free of dirt, grease, and dust. Sharp edges should be slightly beveled so they retain more varnish and remain better protected. To prevent moisture absorption and warping of the wood, it is important to coat the undersides and interiors of wooden components as well. Overhanging parts or areas where water remains standing for long periods must always be provided with an adequate number of varnish coats.

Assessing the condition of existing varnish systems

You can assess the state of a varnish system using the following methods:

Loss of gloss only
Is the varnish system still intact, adhering well, and free of cracks? Then simple maintenance is sufficient. Clean the surface, degrease with Epifanes 1-C Spray Thinner, and lightly sand with dry sandpaper, grit P280-360. Next, apply two or more new coats of varnish.
Weathered appearance, loss of gloss, and hairline cracking
When fine cracks are visible alongside loss of gloss, maintenance is overdue. The system has aged and provides insufficient protection. Clean and degrease the surface, then sand the varnish system back until all cracks have disappeared, usually with P220-280 grit. Afterwards, apply at least four new coats of varnish to restore full protection.
Varnish system in poor condition
Is the varnish severely damaged or poorly adhering? Then the old system must be removed completely. This can be done by coarse sanding or by using a heat gun combined with a sharp scraper. Weathered wood spots can be treated with (warmed) teak cleaner or wood bleacher. Rinse the wood thoroughly with fresh water and allow it to dry completely. The bare wood can be stained if desired using Epifanes Rapidcoat Mahogany Stain, after which a completely new Epifanes varnish system is built up.
Varnish system with spot repairs
Repair spots must be carefully degreased and sanded. Minor damage can be filled with multiple coats of varnish. Then sand the entire surface evenly and apply one or more new coats of varnish. Larger repair areas are best stripped back to bare wood completely, followed by the application of a brand new Epifanes varnish system.