Replies

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Oct 15, 2005 05:54am | #1

   Poly will not adhere well to paint unless the paint is fully dry and it has been scuff sanded with 220 paper.

   You are correct, most polyurethane finishes do not stand up well in direct sunlight.

   Howie.........
1. 
   Yogi | Oct 15, 2005 08:19am | #2

   Precisely what I told him-  I must be smarter than I thought!  Much obliged-

2. 
   Kevin | Oct 15, 2005 06:56pm | #3

   The reverse would be equally valid... scuff the poly before painting over it.

2. 
   sharpblade | Oct 15, 2005 11:09pm | #4

   Instead of regular poly, you can use spar urethane or spar varnish, the stuff used on the woodwork of fancy yachts.  It has UV inhibitors, Sun and marine exposure is pretty rough on boats.  Need multiple coats, and depending on the situation and extra coat or two every couple years.

   If sanding isn't practical, use a good quality enamel undercoater (special primer) over a smooth surface and under paint. The good stuff sticks to glass.

1. 
   Yogi | Oct 15, 2005 11:40pm | #5

   You couldn't put a name to that "special primer", could you?  Much obliged-

1. 
   sharpblade | Oct 16, 2005 04:05pm | #6

   All/most of  the good paint manufacturers make such a product.  I've been using Behr (latex, purple can) for many years with goods results, but just noticed it is only for interior. 

   Here's one for exterior

   http://www.ppg.com/ppgaf/pittsburgh/sealgrip/index.html

   Yellow can, alkyd (oil).  Other makers (BM...) probaly have a similar product, visit a local supplier.  Or a marine/boating store.

   In you case, gently scuffing the letters using an abrasive pad (brown), then covering with the undercoater should result in the best prep before painting them.

1. 
   Yogi | Oct 16, 2005 06:05pm | #7

   Thanks very much-  Again!