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Post by celsian on Nov 2, 2005 17:06:46 GMT
I am intending to tidy up the companionway steps of my SO 36.2 (98) and am considering using Treadmaster SP (the flatter variety) - Any thoughts?.
Also can anyone recommend a specific varnish which will withstand heavy abuse but is easy to apply?
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Post by notorious7004 on Nov 9, 2005 18:10:54 GMT
I once saw a varnish specifically formulated for bowling alley floors which I presume must be very durable. DonĀ“t know about UV protection though. I personally covered the steps in my companionway (Sun Legende) with a threaded, rubber-like material which makes them practically slip proof. (I hate varnishing!) But in any event, Epifanes makes several kind of varnishes which are ALL very good.
Good luck and Fair winds!
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Post by fastboat on Nov 15, 2005 17:57:48 GMT
I rebuilt my companionway steps on my 1985 Attalia two years ago. All the wood around the companionway should be considered to be exterior wood as it is exposed to water, UV and heavy wear. If you're refinishing down to bare wood, consider applying an epoxy sealer like CPES before the varnish. It really seals the wood and it provides quite tenacious adhesion for whatever coatings you subsequently apply. Doesn't work through existing varnish though. Make sure your varnish is high in UV protection. Any of the spar varnishes intended for topsides wood is appropriate. I used 6 coats of SuperSpar medium gloss. The trick to easy application of varnish is in the prep. Use brass wool to abrade the existing varnish, just enough to take the shine off. Use a tack cloth to thoroughly remove sanding detritus. Thin the first coat or two by about 10 percent, it will sink in better and spread easier. Make sure the weather isn't too humid or too cold. Wear a mask. And by the way, I was planning to put no-skid strips on the steps but I have found I don't need them. In bare feet or sandals, the semi-gloss varnish has enough traction for our needs. Hope this helps.
mark t
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