Epoxy vs Spar Varnish

[boomboomtulum]

I've searched to try to find the answer but am still confused .
Since the epoxy on the exterior would have to be UV protected anyway, would it be safe to skip the epoxy and instead apply several coays of a spar varnish? Would this give you weather protection from the rain? Tear will be covered at all times except when in use of course, and rain in calif. from April- October is very rare. However I still want it to be protected from the elements.

Dave

[Miriam C.]

Spar varnish will work and work fairly good. However it does scratch easier than epoxy. Ask me how I know?

[boomboomtulum]

ok how bad was it and how did you fix it?

[doug hodder]

Dave...the advantage to the epoxy on a "woody" trailer is that you can really build up the depth to the finish in a hurry and it does provide more protection against scratches. On a painted trailer, I still put on several layers as I use this to smooth the sides out like automotive sheet metal. You may not want to go that far with it as it is a lot of work. You can just do a coat of epoxy or 2 and go with it if you want. It all depends on the type/quality of finish you want. To me it was worth it as I spray an automotive base/clear on top, expensive paint to put down on a marginal surface. Doug

[Miriam C.]

ok how bad was it and how did you fix it?

Dave they weren't bad but there are 4 or 5 and a dang nuisance. I carefully sanded the scratch and revarnished. I did discover through some spill of epoxy while doing the trim it sticks quite well to varnish.

[Podunkfla]

Dave... In my view the epoxy is worth the extra expense in the long run; particularly if you use a layer of 6 oz fiberglass fabric too, at least on the top. Wood moves with humidity/temp changes... just a fact of life. With the fiberglass on top you minimize the chances of a crack opening up to let moisture in. Plus, it is stronger and more resistant to damage from rocks, hail or whatever. The spar varnish is just there to protect the epoxy from UV rays and minor abrasions. Still, if your tear is going to spend 95% of it's life in a garage? varnish alone would prolly do ok too... It's your call.

[boomboomtulum]

Great thanks for the advise. Now everyone has their favorite brands of Epoxy, what are some that are available? Then I can check local or online and find them.
Dave

[Podunkfla]

Great thanks for the advise. Now everyone has their favorite brands of Epoxy, what are some that are available? Then I can check local or online and find them.
Dave

http://www.raka.com/

[doug hodder]

Kinda a Ford/Chevy thing...I like these guys...Doug

http://www.westsystem.com/

[angib]

I used to work for one of the first epoxy-wood boatbuilders in Britain and his attitude was interesting - "epoxy is a way of putting on five or six coats of varnish in one go".

Andrew

[Jst83]

another epoxy question
I'm only taping and epoxying the seams that ALL cracked open on me what type of coverage and how much would I need to purchase. I know it depends on how many seams I have but is there a way to calculate coverage so I can get enough without buying to much?

[Alphacarina]

A couple of coats of epoxy to seal the wood, followed by a good sanding and then covered by a sprayed on polurethane clearcoat, like cars are finished with would be the 'ideal' solution

Don