Tips for Choosing an Epifanes Clear Varnish System

Generally speaking, Epfaines varnishes can be broken down into 1-Part and 2-Part systems. The choice between a one-component and two-component finish strongly depends on the existing system, the type of wood substrate and the working conditions under which varnish has to be applied.

In certain situations, multiple products may be recommended for the best outcome for a particular application. For example, to hide discolorations on bare wood, one coat or Epifanes Rapidclear may be applied, followed by application of tinted Epifanes Rapidcoat (it has a light teak tone), and applying coats until desired color has been achieved.

One-Component Varnish:
A one-component varnish provides ease of application, is more tolerant regarding the existing system and can be applied with good results in a wider range of temperatures.

One-component varnish also provides the necessary elasticity and flexibility and will not crack because of movements in the wood. They are typically the best choice for solid wood and overlapping lapstrake constructions that are flexible by nature.

Note, one-component varnish are not suited for application on epoxy resin.

Two-Component Varnish:
A two-component varnish is harder and more durable, but is more demanding regarding application skills and working conditions (temperature and relative air humidity).

Epifanes Poly-urethane varnish is well suited for dimensionally stable wood constructions (e.g. marine plywood, laminates). Because of its limited elasticity and flexibility, two-component poly-urethane varnish is less suited for working wood and wood constructions and will lead to the formation of cracks. Poly-urethane varnish will also bond on well prepared epoxy resin.

Epifanes PP Varnish Extra is the exception to two-component varnishes in that it is flexible enough to be used on working wood.

Epifanes Clear Varnish Systems:


Epifanes Clear Varnish with UV	Epifanes Woodfinish Gloss	Epifanes Woodfinish Matte	Epifanes Rubbed Effect
Skill: Novice to Intermediate Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: *** UV Filter: * Hardness: * Flexibility: *** Features: A classic extremely high gloss, clear yacht varnish. Contains extra UV Filter for maximum protection. Recoatable after 24 hours. Substrates:** Great for all wood types but for oily woods (e.g. teak) consider Woodfinish Gloss or Rapid Clear	Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: *** UV Filter: * Hardness: * Flexibility: *** Features: A clear, high gloss varnish-like breathable finish. Sanding not necessary if recoated within 72 hours. Recoatable after 24 hours. Substrates:** Great for all wood types but particularly suited for oily woods like teak, iroco and oak	Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: * UV Filter: ** Hardness: Flexibility: * Features: A rich satin exterior finish. Use over existing finishes. Sanding not required if recoated within 72 hours. Recoatable after 12 hours. Substrates: Use over buildup of Woodfinish Gloss, Clear Gloss Varnish or Poly-urethane Clear Gloss	Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: * UV Filter: * Hardness: ** Flexibility: * Features: A quick drying, scratch resistant, clear interior satin finish for use over buildup over an existing finish. Gives superior protection to alcohol and household chemicals. Substrates: Use over buildup of Clear Gloss Varnish

Epifanes Rapidclear Semi-Gloss	Epifanes Rapidclear Matte	Epifanes Rapidcoat (Teak Tint)	Epifanes PU Speedcoat
Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: ** UV Filter: * Hardness: ** Flexibility: Features: A UV resistant, semi-gloss, flexible and breathable wood finish. Emphasizes wood grain. Quick drying, limited film building. Excellent adhesion to oily woods. Sanding not required if recoated within 72 hours. Recoatable after 5 hours. Substrates:** Use on all woods or as quick drying buildup primer coats prior to use of Clear Gloss Varnish and Woodfinish Gloos/Matte	Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Transparent Amber High Gloss: * UV Filter: * Hardness: Flexibility: Features: A UV resistant, matte, flexible and breathable wood finish. Emphasizes wood grain. Quick drying, limited film building. Excellent adhesion to oily woods. Sanding not required if recoated within 72 hours. Recoatable after 5 hours. Substrates:** Use on all woods or as quick drying buildup primer coats prior to use of Clear Gloss Varnish and Woodfinish Gloss/Matte	Skill: Novice Component: 1-Part Color: Light Teak High Gloss: ** UV Filter: * Hardness: ** Flexibility: Features: A UV resistant, teak tinted, flexible and breathable wood finish. Camouflages color differences in wood. Quick drying, limited film building. Excellent adhesion to oily woods. Sanding not required if recoated within 72 hours. Recoatable after 5 hours. Substrates:** Use on all woods or as quick drying buildup primer coats prior to Clear Gloss Varnish and Woodfinish Gloss/Matte	Skill: Professional Component: 2-Part High Color: Clear Gloss: *** UV Filter: * Hardness: * Flexibility: Features: High gloss finish with outstanding flowing properties. Dedicated to spray application with extremely short overcoating times. Provides long lasting gloss retention and is scratch and weather resistant. After full cure, polishable. Substrates: Most 2-part systems, prepared fiberglass (GRP), steel, aluminum and plywood. Not for use over 1-part paints Application: Spray only, professional use only

Epifanes Poly-urethane Clear Gloss Varnish	Epifanes Poly-urethane Clear Satin Varnish	Epifanes PP Varnish Extra
Skill: Intermediate Component: 2-Part Color: Transparent Clear High Gloss: *** UV Filter: * Hardness: * Flexibility: Features: A high-gloss, scratch and water resistant varnish that contains UV inhibitors. Provides maximum outdoor durability, even in tropical climates. Substrates: Suitable on all existing poly-urethane varnishes, UV protection on epoxy surfaces or as a full system on bare, dimensionally stable wood.	Skill: Intermediate Component: 2-Part Color: Transparent Clear High Gloss: * UV Filter: ** Hardness: * Flexibility: Features: A hard scratch resistant interior satin varnish that contains UV inhibitors. Provides superior protection to alcohol and household chemicals. Substrates: Suitable on all existing poly-urethane varnishes, UV protection on epoxy surfaces or as a full system on bare, dimensionally stable wood.	Skill: Intermediate Component: 2-Part Color: Transparent Clear High Gloss: *** UV Filter: Hardness: Flexibility: Features: A quick drying, high gloss, rapid build up varnish. Great for sealing all woods. Protects from alcohol and household chemicals. Substrates:** Suitable for all bare wood including oily, working and non-working. Good for exterior use but recommended to over coat with 2-3 coats of Clear Gloss or Polyurethane Clear Gloss Varnishes for extra protection.