Replies

1. 
   davcefai | Jul 26, 2009 09:38pm | #1

   I had to look up "gilders' paste" as I had never heard of it!

   I found this: http://www.archirondesign.com/library/pdfs/Gilders.pdf which states:

   Will accept an overcoat, such as UV solvent based stable clear lacquer,
   varnish, acrylic, or clear powder coating to achieve a uniform appearance where the Gilders Paste™ was not used, or, to provide increased durability to areas where repeated.

   So it looks like you'll be OK with varnish.

1. 
   keithflknr | Jul 29, 2009 07:12am | #11

   I work on a tugboat.we fight rust everyday.A couple years ago a new prduct showed up called Coraseal. I have been sailing tugs for 25 yrs and never found a product that worked this well. It drys as a very hard coating that seals very well.Its also a primer so you dont have to prim. I have been told its a bit pricey. but its well worth it.
   Keith

2. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 26, 2009 10:28pm | #2

   Minwax Helmsman is a poor choice for exterior applications. Polyurethane varnish are quickly attacked by the UV in sunlight causing it to get cloudy, begin to crack and peel and quickly fail. Consumer Union found the Minwax to be the first finish to fail in their outdoor tests. It lasted less than six to eight months in a high UV environment.

   No clear finish will last more than a year or two. We boaters wish that were not the case. The best are true marine exterior varnishes. Go to a marine supply store and look for brands like Pettit, Wolsey, Z-spar, Interlux and, best of all, Epifanes. Even with these premium finishes, expect to have to sand and recoat every couple of years.

   Howie.........
1. 
   popawheelie | Jul 26, 2009 11:32pm | #3

   Thanks!"There are three kinds of men: The one that learns by reading, the few who learn by observation and the rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves."Will Rogers

2. 
   popawheelie | Jul 28, 2009 05:21am | #4

   I was working on the post today and the Minwax Helmsman started peeling off.

   The good news is I've only done two posts and one fence panel.

   I emailed Epifanes but they haven't replied. Automotive?

   I'm in CO so not much marine stuff here.

   "There are three kinds of men: The one that learns by reading, the few who learn by observation and the rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves."Will Rogers

   Edited 7/27/2009 10:34 pm by popawheelie

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Jul 28, 2009 05:51am | #5

   pop,

   I am painting our house and using Olympic Solid Color oil based stain.  Got a great bargain on the price as the local hardware store is getting rid of it and switching to Cabot.  Bought 20 gals. for $100, $20 ea.

   One section had nearly bare wood after scraping, most of the old paint was latex and underneath that were patches of either oil or lead based paint - still very much in tact.  It took two coats but came out very nice.

   Regards,Bob @ Kidderville Acres

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!

1. 
   zolton | Jul 28, 2009 02:25pm | #6

   Bob,

   You either bought five gallons for $20 each = $100, or 20 gallons for $5 each = $100...

   I'm math impaired, myself, but this leapt out at me...

   Zolton

    If you see a possum running around in here, kill it. It's not a pet. - Jackie Moon

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Jul 28, 2009 02:35pm | #7

   Zolton,

   I'm math impaired

   Well, I guess I am too.  It was 20 gals. @ $5/ea.  DOH!

   Hope all is well with you.

   Even with all the rain we've had I managed to get all the house painted 'cept the fun part - the trim.  Starting on that this AM.  Psssst, don't tell my wife but I also got a gallon of Navaho (sp?) red for the front door.

   Regards,Bob @ Kidderville Acres

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!

2. 
   zolton | Jul 28, 2009 02:41pm | #9

   Bob,

   Painting a house alone is a huge job. We live in a tall, two story American Foursquare, and I've now painted it four times in 20 years. It takes most of the summer to do, between the prep work, priming and two topcoats of paint. Lots of up-and-down the ladder work.

   Frankly, the thrill is gone. Although I'd never do it, I can see why some people put vinyl siding on their homes. I'd rather spend the time it takes to paint the house out in the shop or on my bike..

   ZoltonIf you see a possum running around in here, kill it. It's not a pet. - Jackie Moon

2. 
   furndr | Jul 28, 2009 02:39pm | #8

   Try Jamestown Distributors for Epifanes finish. You can google their website or call them at 401-253-3840. They are great to discuss your application and they will get a package in the mail to you PDQ. 

   furndr

3. 
   davcefai | Jul 29, 2009 07:03am | #10

   "Automotive?"There is a clear lacquer that is used as a topcoat over metallic colours. Could this be your solution?Alternatively you might be able to use untinted "basecoat" if it is clear enough. Note that these are spray finishes and dry very fast so brushmarks will definitely be a problem.There are however automotive finshes designed for brush application, if you can find a supplier.