How much varnish to buy ?

[jaguiler]

Hello - and thanks in advance - 

 

how much varnish/paint is needed to cover a SOF kayak (assuming 3 coats to waterproof) ?  I thought I read somewhere - about 1 quart should do it.  But I am having my doubts that I actually saw that.  I am thinking I should buy a gallon - which will give me enough to cover 2 kayaks - (I am building 2 11' kayaks)

 

Thank you !

[CapecodJohn]

I averaged more than a half gallon per kayak.  4 coats of marine spar varnish, first coat was thinned

[jaguiler]

ugh... I figured I made a mistake when buying just 2 quarts today - I can take one back and pick up a gallon - thanks !

[Kudzu]

I will second the gallon BUT I haven't varnished one in a long time. I can paint a boat with one quart (usually) but most people will need part of a second.  If your going to do two boats you might as well as buy the gallon. It's going to be cheaper than 3 quarts most likely.

 

This always stirs up some controversy but I take my propane torch and let some of the gas escape into the can and then seal it. Since propane is heavier than air it will settle in the can, removing the air and keep the varnish from hardening. Yes propane is flammable but so is varnish.

[P Doug (WA)]

I used about  a quart and half, a little less, on my Curlew.  Applied three coats.  Curlew is 15'.  I'd bet your 2 11' ones don't have a whole lot more surface area.  Two quarts will probably do it in my opinion.