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Wooden Bathtub
Hi there.
I have a varnish related question for a project I'm working on. I'm currently building a wooden bathtub - partly as a hobby and partly with an eye on maybe making this something more. I'm at the stage where I need to protect the wood and make it waterproof. When researching different methods online I decided a marine varnish would probably be the best option as opposed to oiling or using a waterproofing stain. I think a marine varnish will not only look amazing but it'll also make the bathtubs hard wearing and easier to clean.
After watching some of Dan's YouTube videos I decided to purchase the varnishing course and learn more about marine varnishing in greater detail. After watching the tutorials and videos I'm certain this is the right method to use.
My initial plan was to do a two part epoxy finish to the bathtubs. The reason being was for added durability as I'm using a plywood end grain finish to the tubs and thought the epoxy would penetrate into the end grain better and protect the wood longer term. It was also after watching the epoxy varnish video on YouTube. However, after watching the videos in the varnishing course I'm wandering whether this is the right method or whether a simpler 1 part Epifanes clear varnish would be enough?
Appreciate this is not a boating project so hoping the same rules apply. Any advice would be most appreciated.
I've attached a pdf so you can see what I'm working with.
Many thanks,
Bobby
Hi Bobby
The bathtub looks amazing! I would definitely go with an epoxy finish here, that is pretty much the only thing that will hold water well and prevent any ingress into the wood, you especially don't want that with exposed end grain plywood.
For this I would recommend the Modern hard wearing full epoxy and varnish system detailed in the varnish systems section here: https://danleeboatbuilding.co.uk/courses/varnishing-course-10-day-yacht-varnisher/lesson/systems-recommended-varnish-systems-quick-guide/
Thanks for replying so quickly Dan, really appreciate the feedback.
Perfect! Looking forward to starting the varnishing phase and getting the tub ready for water. I think this will really elevate the tub and give it the final touch it needs.
One last question. What’s the rubbed look varnish effect like? I quite like the matt finish the wood currently has and wasn’t aware there was such a product until I watched your video. Does it make the varnish look cloudy or is it still clear but with less shine? I guess the only way to find out is to do a sample piece first and it’ll be down to personal preference?
Thanks again. Really enjoy your content 👍
The rubbed effect varnish has a really nice finish to it, you can see it in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3wgJbo82pw
It won't cloud the finish but will just leave a nice soft sheen to it. Don't apply any more than 3x coats though otherwise it will start to cloud. Do your build up coats with something like PP. Also the polyurethane clear is available in a satin finish, that may be a better, more hard wearing alternative for the tub.
Samples are always a good call as well!
Cheers
Dan