varnish for carbon rig

Top tip

Any decent size DIY store that sells Plasti kote will have a polyurethane varish in an aresol just like this :-

http://www.diy.com/diy/jsp/bq/nav/nav.jsp?action=detail& fh_secondid=9254113&ecamp=trf-005&CAWELAID=266948427

Ok its not the cheapest option but if you consider time, brush cleaners etc it is seriously the way forward.

I have found 1 can will do two coats on a 300 mast so 2 cans and you have a really good job.

Of course if you want to be 100% uv proof why not use Satin Black Plasti Kote .. doesn't go horrbly creamy and flaky after 2 years either 

I used International Perfection on my mast, boom and pole and in the main the results are good. The fumes did however get to me a bit even though I had all the doors to the boat shed open, so best to get plenty of protective gear, ie masks, gloves, spacesuit !!!

two pot International Perfection Varnish is the one I used:

http://www.mailspeedmarine.com/paint-varnish/perfection-varn ish-750ml258989.bhtml

It's not particularly cheap but you'd get quite a few spars/coats done with one tin and it's meant to be pretty good. Was easy enough to put on just don't do it outside- my mast now has a nice dimpled effect after an unexpected light shower!

Any old two pot is supposed to be OK, but personally I don't trust varnish. If you use light colour paint you can see when and where it needs to be replaced. The kite pole isn't too critical though unless the end sticks out of the cover. Its things that are in sun all day every day you need to be careful with.