Overview

Sadolin Yacht Varnish is a highly durable, clear wood varnish designed for exterior use on windows, doors, and conservatories. With its waterproof properties and UV inhibitors, it effectively protects against sun damage, prolonging the natural beauty of wood surfaces. However, it's important to note that this product is not suitable for constant immersion in water or for use on decking. 

For decking applications, we recommend Sadolin Decking Oil or Sadolin Wet Wood Decking Stain.

Preparation

Before application, ensure that timber surfaces are properly prepared, clean, sound, and dry, with a moisture content not exceeding 18%. 

For bare or new timber

• Remove any resinous deposits using a scraper.
• Degrease exposed bare timber by wiping with a lint-free cloth dampened with methylated spirits.
• Weather-exposed timber or any loose, grey, or denatured wood must be sanded back to a clean, sound surface if exposed for 4 weeks or longer.
• Certain tropical hardwoods such as Iroko, Idigbo, and Teak should be scrubbed with cellulose thinners before application.
• Eliminate organic growths and treat infected surfaces with a suitable mould and mildew cleaner.
• Clean remaining sound surfaces using warm water and mild detergent, followed by thorough rinsing with clean water.
• Utilise fillers designed for timber, such as Sadolin Wood Filler and Sadolin Stainable Wood Filler, to address minor surface defects, imperfections, and open joints.
• Use non-ferrous screws, nails, and fixings exclusively.
• Apply two liberal coats of Sadolin Wood Preserver to any non-preservative-treated softwood timber, with particular attention to end grains, allowing 24 hours drying time between coats before over-coating with Sadolin Yacht Varnish.

For previously coated timber

• Completely remove any previous paint coating and all defective coatings, then sand back to clean, bright timber, treating it as new timber.
• Take special precautions during the preparation of pre-1960s painted surfaces, as they may contain harmful lead.

For glazing

• Finish the backs of new glazing beads, end grains, and rebates entirely with Sadolin Yacht Varnish before fixing.
• Apply suitable sealant to joinery intended for coating with Sadolin wood stain systems.
• Avoid using linseed oil putty or modified, non-setting compounds in conjunction with Sadolin systems.
• Confirm compatibility with the manufacturer of the relevant glazing material.
• Apply silicone glazing materials only after completing the finishing coats.

Application

Before starting any project, it's essential to conduct a small test area to assess the consistency and compatibility of the finish. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions on the tin.

Avoid applying the varnish if there's a risk of rain, or when temperatures are below 8° or above 25°, or if the relative humidity exceeds 80% during application or drying periods. Protect the surface from frost and rain until fully dry to prevent adverse effects on drying, visual quality, and durability.

Thoroughly stir the product before and during application to prevent sheen variations. Sadolin Yacht Varnish comes ready for use and should not be thinned.

Apply the varnish in a full, flowing coat, ensuring complete coverage of all surfaces and end grains. For optimal results, utilise a high-quality, long-haired, soft bristle brush. Pay particular attention to end grain, tops and bottoms of doors, and undersides of sills.

Finish with 2 or 3 full coats of Yacht Varnish, depending on your project's requirements, allowing 16-24 hours drying time between coats.

Note: Sadolin Yacht Varnish can be used alongside one or more base stain coats of Sadolin Classic Wood Protection for desired stain colours, followed by 2 full coats of Sadolin Yacht Varnish. Apply the base coat liberally to accommodate the natural absorption/porosity of the timber surface.

Cleaning equipment

Clean brushes and equipment immediately after use with a proprietary brush cleaner. In case of spills, promptly remove the varnish while still wet using clean white spirit.

Aftercare

It's important to conduct regular maintenance, which is signalled by a reduction in sheen as the coating wears away and a decrease in water repellent qualities.

• Ensure all defective coatings are completely removed.
• Thoroughly sand back any grey, denatured exposed timber surfaces to reveal clean, bright timber.
• Remove any organic growths and treat infected surfaces with a suitable fungicidal solution.
• Clean remaining sound surfaces with warm water and a mild detergent, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• For bare and previously wood-stained timber, patch prime with one or more coats of Sadolin Classic in the appropriate shade to match the existing colour, where necessary.
• On weathered or eroded surfaces, apply an additional coat of Sadolin Yacht Varnish overall and allow it to dry.
• Finish with 2 or 3 coats as required to ensure optimal protection and longevity.

Datasheets

Sadolin Yacht Varnish - Safety Information

Sadolin Yacht Varnish - Product Information