Epifanes Rapidclear applications

[SS_Grace]

Has anyone ever used Epifanes Rapidclear as the primary varnish system on a mast? or other exposed areas on a boat that get a lot of chafe? If so, how did it hold up? I'm considering using it alone, or for the first several coats and then topping off with a coat or two of the standard Epifanes High Gloss finish.

Thanks,
Jeanne
S/V SS Grace, 47' San Juan Sharpie

[dave10990]

I started using Rapidclear as the sealler and first several coats for build up. I then sand and switch to regular Epifanes Varnish. Rapid clear has less UV protection, seems softer, and is very thin so it takes, in mu opinion, 3-4 coats to equal 1 full coat of varnish. I like it because you can do your prep work, then get some protection on right away, giving you some time to do the finish coats.

[dutchpp]

I'm using rapid clear every year on my mast, a couple of coats (can be done in 1 day) and finish it off with Epifanes wood finish varnish. It's a gaff rigged pole mast on a dutch tradional ship, Epifanes RC works fine for me.

[David G]

I have a strong suspicion that the finish schedule you propose would be sub-optimum. Perhaps dramatically so. But the real answer will come from the Epifanes tech folks. Call them.