Gleam 2.0 Marine Spar Varnish

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is the difference between Gleam varnish and Halcyon varnish?

  Gleam is a traditional oil-based boat varnish available in gloss or satin finish. Halcyon is a water-based polyurethane varnish available in clear gloss, light amber gloss, and satin finish. Gleam provides the classic rich, warm amber appearance of European finishes, but improves upon them by eliminating sanding between coats and drying far faster.
• Can I apply Gleam Marine Spar Varnish directly over epoxy?

  Yes, but make sure to first wash the epoxy with water and scrub clean, then rinse and dry in order to remove any amine blush, then sand smooth, remove any sanding residue and then apply varnish. Amine blush, a byproduct of most epoxies’ curing process, will otherwise compromise the varnish’s ability to bond to the epoxy.
• How do I apply this varnish?

  You can apply by brush, roller, or spray. To achieve desired flow when brushing, 5-10% TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 may be necessary in warmer conditions over 75°F. When spraying, reduce 10-20% with TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101.
• How much coverage will I get per gallon of varnish?

  The coverage for varnish is 360-400 sq ft per gallon at 3 mils wet.
• How many coats of varnish should I apply?

  A total of 4-6 coats will provide the best finish and depth; the more coats, the better the finish.
• How long should I wait to re-coat?

  It depends on temperature and humidity. Gleam can be overcoated much sooner than other common varnishes. You may re-coat after 1 hour at 80°F, 3 hours at 65°F, or 8 hours at 50°F.
• Can the TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish be used over stained surfaces?

  Yes, but the stain must be thoroughly dried and the surface should be cleaned with denatured alcohol prior to application. If possible, we recommend trying a test piece to make sure the two products are compatible.
• Is there a difference in application between Gloss and Satin finishes?

  Gloss can be built up to a desired finish and depth. Satin applications should be built up using Gleam 2.0 Gloss, and directly prior to the final coat, sand lightly with 320-grit sandpaper, and finish with one or two coats of Gleam 2.0 Satin. Important: Do not build coats with Satin.
• Does this varnish dry clear, or does it have a color?

  TotalBoat Gleam 2.0 marine spar varnish will dry to a classic clear amber gloss similar to the distinctive finish of the best European spar varnishes.
• How do I maintain varnished surfaces?

  Gleam may be cleaned with any mild all-purpose boat soap, such as TotalBoat Boat Soap, and water. For the best results, apply 1-2 annual maintenance coats for exterior applications to maintain the finish appearance and UV protection.