Awl-Spar Classic Spar Varnish is the highest quality classic spar varnish with state-of-the-art UV inhibitors and absorbers used to protect against water and weathering. It has excellent durability and dries fast, repainting quickly for fast build-up. For use above the waterline only.
The classic varnish with excellent durability. Specially formulated to create the highest quality varnish. Apply 2 to 3 coats per day when temperatures are above 24°C. Excellent repainting. Designed for shiny jobs where its hard, glossy film helps protect against water and weather. Do not use below the waterline. Apply with a brush or spray.
Surface preparation
The wood must be clean, dry, smooth and well seasoned.
New wood: The use of marine teak cleaner or wood bleach is recommended on new wood to remove excess oils, promote color uniformity and adhesion. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and thoroughly remove all residual cleaner and stripper before proceeding. Rough sawn timber should be heavily sanded to smooth the grain. Work through the grit to effectively level the grain 60/80 to 100/150 to 220 and so on. When the grain is level, sand the surface with 320 grit paper.
Old finishes in good condition should be washed with AWL-PREP surface cleaner and then sanded with 220-320 grit paper to remove gloss. Old finishes in poor condition should be removed. Test on a small area to ensure that AWLSPAR does not attack the old finish. If the old finish is attacked, it must be removed completely.
Note: Due to the wide variety of substrates, surface preparations, application methods and environments, customers should test the complete system for adhesion and compatibility under their conditions prior to full-scale application.
Mixing and Reducing
New Wood Reduction: When finishing new wood, reduce 100% (1 part M3131 to 1 part T0016 by volume) with T0016 for the first coat only. This will allow AWLSPAR to penetrate and seal the grains. For spray application reduce between 50-100% with T0180. Subsequent coats should be applied with a 25% reduction (T0180). Brush application: no dilution or reduction is usually required (after the first coat). If desired, reduce up to 20% with T0016. Mix only do not shake! Induction time after mixing: N/A Projected pot life at 77°F, 50% RH: N/A
Application instructions
Awlspar Classic Spar Varnish can be used to seal the wood and create a complete finishing system. Alternatively, Awlbrite Quik-Fil Clear J3901/J3902 is a clear, fast drying wood grain filler that can be used to seal wood prior to finishing with Awlspar M3131 (4-6 coats). See relevant product data sheets for details.
After sealing new wood or on previously coated surfaces, apply light, smooth, uniform coats (2-3 mils liquid) of full body material. In temperatures above 75°F, 2 to 3 coats per day may be applied. If sanding is required, allow 24 hours to dry before sanding. Best results are obtained when the surface is sanded smooth with 320 -400 grit paper after every 2 to 3 coats. If you are making M3131 as a stand-alone coating, repeat this process until the grain is filled and covered, 7 to 10 coats may be required. The exact number of coats required will vary depending on the thickness of the film, the amount of sanding and the type of wood. For traditionalists, the Ultimate Brightwork System offers excellent performance longevity: use Awlspar M3131 to seal and colour bare wood. Apply 2-3 smooth coats. Allow to dry for at least 72 hours at a constant temperature of 75§/25§C. In colder temperatures, dry for at least 72 hours and allow the wood to dry for up to 72 hours.
In colder temperatures allow up to 7-10 days before finishing with Awlbrite Clear Urethane (available in full gloss or semi-gloss finish). Refer to your application guide and/or Awlgrip representative for further options on systems.
AWLSPAR will cure at temperatures as low as 45oF. h However, best results are achieved when temperatures are between 60oF and 90oF.
If possible, avoid applying or curing the material in direct sunlight. Do not apply paint materials to surfaces warmer than 105°F or cooler than 45°F. Do not attempt to cure products at temperatures below 45°F.
