Skip the varnish, just wood sealer?

[torrmundi]

I’m refinishing interior wood trim with Interlux Wood Sealer, a two-part, fast curing preparation intended to be used under additional varnish coats. But the product seems tough and durable, and has a nice shine. Why do I need to varnish? What am I gaining by varnishing? As long as I’m not doing super-thick, ultra-glossy finish (like Hinckley vessels), do I need the varnish?

[jeanathon]

Often sealers or primers lack U.V. protection, and rely on the topcoat for that. Interlux says this. " Inter-Prime Wood Sealer Clear is not a finish paint and must be
overcoated with varnish or paint.


Since you are doing the interior you could experiment for us by not top coating. My guess is in 6 months it will be pretty dull, and need to be done again.

[jamhass]

We were very impressed with Minwax Wipe-on Poly. Easy to apply, nice finish, dries quickly, looks great. Can apply whenever to build a robust finish.

[pdx_sailing]

With the wipe on poly did you start with bare wood?

[maury]

I just did my teak on deck with semco teak sealer clear and am very happy with the results. Now I am considering it for cabin sole. It is an exterior product but boat is usually open with ventilation so feel ok with interior use. Very easy to apply and ling term to maintain. Applied 3 coats as prior was still drying then wiped off excess. In future I will need to do a quick coat with a rag after a quick 220 quick sanding 2x-3x/ year. I like it because it filled inaccessible holes and cracks which stopped a few leaks.