Can I paint over Helmsman Oil Based Spar Varnish?

[scott vroom]

I'm planning top seal some exterior cabinets with Helmsman oil based spar varnish. I'd like to topcoat with an oil-latex paint to match the existing shop exterior. Has anyone tried this? Would I need an oil primer or just scuff the spar varnish before painting? I'm concerned about the paint top coat alligatoring/cracking.

The cabinets hang on my exterior shop wall and will be exposed to seasonal snow and rain.

[Jim Becker]

Personally...I'd abrade AND prime before applying the paint.

[Andrew Seemann]

If they are being painted, I would skip the spar varnish, use an actual, oil-based primer and then paint. I'm not really sure what would be gained with the spar varnish; the primer is all you need.

[Jim Becker]

Andrew makes a good point. Quality paint is a good thing and doesn't require the varnish.

[scott vroom]

I guess I should have stated up front that I already have the paint to match the shop exterior...it's Behr House and Fence Solid Color Stain and it says it's "Resin Type: Oil-Latex" and recommends an oil primer. I already had the spar varnish, oil primer, and the paint so easy decision to go that route as long as I can avoid adhesion issues.

Anyway, the question was whether paint could be applied over varnish and I think Jim had the right answer given my circumstance...abrade & oil primer before painting.


Thanks for the replies.