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#874873 08/14/2012 11:47 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 252
P
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
P Offline
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 252
This refers to a '51 bedbox but has more to do with paint than wood so I am posting it here.
My autobody guys are suggesting that I clear coat my wood bed strips rather than coating them with 5 coats of valspar varnish. They say it is OK for UV and not to worry.
I don't know enough about clear coat to make an informed decision. I am a carpenter by trade and of course lean towards the Valspar although the clear coar seems awfully tempting.
Any suggestions?
I only want to do this once!
Thanks
Peter


1951 Chevy 3100 5-Window
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J
'Bolter
'Bolter
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Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,750
Peter,you obviously have a better idea about timber preservation being a carpenter to trade.
Personally I would think the Valspar would be the better option simply because that's what it's designed for.
I would imagine clear coat while it would look good, wouldn't be anywhere near as hard wearing.
I'm not sure what your intentions are regarding the trucks use,but I imagine the Valspar would stand up better over time.JMO

Last edited by jockbolter50; 08/15/2012 2:30 AM.

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C
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Till a few years ago I would of thought Val Spar for wood too, but learning what I have about quality clear coats I'd now go that route. UV protection is better, won't yellow as bad and just as durable.


Give me ambiguity
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Joined: Apr 2009
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H
'Bolter
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H Offline
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 554
There is a really good finish comparison done by Mar-K. You can see it at http://www.mar-k.com/wood_finish_testing_ii.aspx Follow it through the 2010 update.

Clear coats did not fair very well in the comparison. Probably because the finish is not made for a surface that can change as much as wood under different temperature and humidity conditions. Marine spar varnish did well.

Chuck

Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 171
5
Wrench Fetcher
Wrench Fetcher
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Posts: 171
Most of the problems with the wood finishes come with a lack of sealing the end of the boards. If clear is used, make sure the ends have multiple coats before the other 4 surfaces are finished. As far as the clear on wood goes, we have been spraying wood and wood composite material for years and have never had a problem with the clear failing. As with everything-prep is the key!


....David
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 14,522
Moderator: Welcome Centre, Southern Bolters, Legion Hall
Moderator: Welcome Centre, Southern Bolters, Legion Hall
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 14,522
...just remember wood will expand and contract. If the coating cracks then it will start deteriating. "Spar" is the additive that is suppose to let it "move" and not crack.

...and as a former bolter taught me...let the boards stand in a pan of the sealer overnight to suck up all it can. If the ends get plenty it won't crack....cause once it does it'll turn black.
Good luck.


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