Questions and Answers for Varathane 1 qt. Clear Satin Oil-Based Exterior Spar Urethane

A:  Happy to help! While Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Spar Urethane can be used on previously painted surfaces, we do not recommend it for use on surfaces that will be exposed to foot traffic. The consistent stepping on can cause the coating to chip and peel. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  It might make it too slippery....It leaves a smooth water repelat coat.

A:  If the previous coat has dried 12 hours it is hard and has started to cure. After 12 hours a light scuffing is required to to give the previous a "tooth" that the top coat will adhere to. Scuff sanding also will remove microscopic dust bumps that may be on the previous coat. If the previous coat is less than 12 hours old, the second coat will bond without sanding.

A:  I would wait overnight ( 24 hrs ) before applying a 2nd coat...It needs to completlly dry before trying to sand or apply the 2nd coat.

A:  You've come to the right place. If the Rust-Oleum Varathane Spar Urethane has been applied more than 12 hours ago, then we recommend lightly sanding before recoating. At that point, the finish would have not been fully cured, but will have hardened enough that light abrasion is needed to ensure the best adhesion. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 5

A:  it typically means from the time applied.

A:  I would compare this to Helmsman.It's just as good if not better.

A:  While we do not test against other brands, we'll be more than happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may with the Rust-Oleum Spar Urethane. We can be reached at (800) 901-0411 to discuss! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 1

A:  I am a big HD guy but I like Helmsman much better. Sorry they switched.

A:  Happy to clear things up! We do not recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Spar Urethane for use on subflooring or on walking surfaces. This product is intended for use on exterior wood surfaces only. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  I can't say if it does work better but I thought it would and chose oil base for out side

A:  Happy to help, Ace! With proper surface prep and application, both products will offer lasting results. Please keep in mind, Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Spar Urethane will have a golden tone to it. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Yes...The oil based is much better and should last longer.

A:  My personal opinion is that is does. Just that it is a more difficult clean up.

A:  Yes but you want to prep the surface by sanding or applying a base coat that will allow the finish to adhere

A:  It actually depends on the application, Paul. If you're working with an exterior item, we suggest that you use the Rust-Oleum Varathane Spar Urethane. If you're working with an interior application, you won't want to use the exterior product. The reason is that exterior polys are designed to be flexible and a little softer to move with the temperatures outside. If you use it inside, you could actually notice it scratch easier. We suggest sticking to the appropriate application for optimum results!

A:  I am not a professional painter but I would think you would need to sand the surface first in order to get adhesion.

A:  If used for an exterior application, I would not recommend. If for interior, there is no issue.

A:  Yes unless the item is used outdoors then I would say no

A:  yes, i's smooth.. Odd question depending on what you are trying to use it on

A:  Happy to clear things up, Andrei. We don't recommend using Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-based Spar Urethane on a floor because it is not a floor-grade coating and will not hold up well in that type of environment. It will wear away quickly. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 5

A:  We appreciate your interest, Jim! Due to the exposure to direct foot traffic, we do not recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Spar Urethane on decks or other walking surfaces. This type of environment will cause the coating to chip and peel. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Do NOT use on the porch floor it will not hold up and it will be slippery as well.

A:  it would not last at all. It's not intended to be used on decks. You should use a deck stain or clear waterproofing product.

A:  Due to the exposure to direct foot traffic, we do not recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Spar Urethane on decks. The coating will chip and peel in this environment type. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  We like how you think, Jake! We recommend applying a minimum of 3 coats for the Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-based Spar Urethane for the best protection. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 5

A:  Is recommended you do two coats and make sure it has dried thoroughly between coats if it's outdoors and Dusty you may have to use a fine sandpaper to sand between coats

A:  Outdoor conditions require a minimum of three costs and four is better. Outdoor exposure is very hard on any type of coating on wood. The reason is temperature fluctuation, humidity and of course the sun(uv) rays). Those really beat up a finish. What you want to f do I is completely seal the wood to keel water and humidity out so the finish stays intact. But it will eventually crack and start to separate and you have re-sand to bear wood and do it all over again A better choice for ease of maintenance is an oil finish. It’s not as pretty but it’s much easier to maintain