Epiphanes or Armada

[Hatisfaction]

I want to put a durable high gloss finish on some teak trim on a non walking surface. Some of my friends advise Epihanes while others like the Armada.
I would appreciate any other reccomendations or any experiences members of the forum may have had with either of these products or others.
Thanks

 

[REBrueckner]

Epiphanes is a good product I've used for four years. It's no more durable than other marine varnishes I've used over the years. In the NE I gave my handrails two coats two years ago and did not recoat this summer because of weather conditions. Bad choice, it needed it by the end of the season. I'm going back to one or two coast annually.
I like the one which does not require sanding between coats if done within 72 hours. If my first coat is smooth, then I can skip sanding and especially cleanup. I have not used Armada.

 

[Capt K]

Over the years, I've tried a lot of different finishes. Obviously, there's no "free lunch" when it comes to brightwork. The product that I keep going back to is Petit Captain's Varnish. It's relatively inexpensive and easy to use. The best results have been achieved when I get a good finish, then put on a thin coat after WET sanding 2-3 times per season. It's not really a big deal to take a couple of hours or less 3 times per season. I get many more seasons out of the job this way.

My railings are 42 years old and have many bad seams where the sections are fastened together. If your railings are in better shape, it should last even longer.

The key is to maintain the finish yearly, no matter what the can instructions tell you.

K

 

[REBrueckner]

I fogot that in the past I,too, have used Petit Captains Varnish with satisfactory results. At the time, I added a single coat every season and never had a problem.

Whatever you use, you'll likely have to thin/reduce it, so use an approved product, not turps. And try to avoid varnishing in the hot sun; it's too hard to work and avoid brush strokes.

 

[Maynard Rupp]

You should take a serious look at "Bristol Finish". It is a 2 part poly with UV inhibitors. The finish looks like good varnish, but they claim it lasts 18 years. I have had it on 2 years and it looks like new. No sanding between coats. Just pile a coat on every 2 hours. 4 caots, then sand with 240. 1 final coat and you are good to go. bristolfinish.com I think.