I would like to re-varnish my cabin sole and wondered if the veneer is thick enough to use a orbital sander, or should I do it by hand. Also, I am wondering if I should use a heat gun to remove the old varnish first. Cabin sole is not in bad condition, just want to clean it up a little and put a shine back on it.
Thanks, Paul
Grateful, CD 330, 1986
Cabin Sole Refinishing Suggestions
Moderator: Jim Walsh
Re: Cabin Sole Refinishing Suggestions
I prepped my cabin sole using 325 grit on my orbital sander set to the slowest speed. I just intended to key the surface, not actually remove any material. I used a sanding block and hand sanded all the places the orbital wouldn’t reach. I made no attempt to strip the old finish. The sole has imperfections acquired over 40+ years but looks fine for its age. I will be prepping and varnishing my sole during the upcoming season. The last time I did it was in 2016.
Jim Walsh
Ex Vice Commodore
Ex Captain-Northeast Fleet
CD31 ORION
The currency of life is not money, it's time
Ex Vice Commodore
Ex Captain-Northeast Fleet
CD31 ORION
The currency of life is not money, it's time
Re: Cabin Sole Refinishing Suggestions
i'm thinking the same thing. don't try to remove the old varnish unless there's no other way. etch the sole with fine sandpaper and put a couple of fresh coats on. one way to fill up bad dings is with clear epoxy.