Ronseal CCODVS250 250 ml Crystal Outdoor Satin Finish Varnish - clear

I recently used this varnish on the top boards of my pond, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The varnish dries clear without any yellowing, as some other reviews have mentioned.The key to achieving a smooth finish is to apply thin, even coats and allow each layer to dry thoroughly. Although the product is quick-drying, I found that letting each coat dry for a day yielded the best results. Applying thick coats can lead to issues, so patience is essential.After each coat, I lightly sanded the surface with 300-grit sandpaper to remove any dust nibs and to provide better adhesion for the next layer. For the final coat, I used 600-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth, professional finish. Don’t use wire wool for sanding between coats, especially with water-based varnishes like this one, as any residual fibers can rust under the varnish.I applied five coats to ensure durability, though three coats should suffice for most projects. I wouldn’t use this varnish for treated wood, as it seems to react with the chemicals in the wood, causing discolouration. I would recommend recoating with thin layer each year.As for the water resistance, the water beads right off like water off a ducks back. I can’t comment on the UV resistance as it’s not been long enough to tell but with enough coats UV shouldn’t be an issue.Overall I would throughly recommend this varnish as my experience using it has been great.

I came to this product after using its predecessor spirit based varnish many years ago, which proved very durable. I did not realise that the formula had changed & was somewhat taken aback when presented with a thick custard like goo. However I decided to give it a go & followed the instructions. It was very easy to apply & there was virtually no odour, cleaning the brush was a doddle & recoating in six hours an advantage. I can confirm that it dries clear. I can’t vouch for its durability or toughness. If I’m spared I may report back. CM.Follow up. 24/10/22. A year on & I can vouch that the result is very positive. Despite heavy use the finish is as good as new. A word of warning - I recently attempted to use the remaining varnish which had kept well in the garage. Disaster, it curdled as it was applied leaving bits all over the surface. Eventually I rang customer services, very efficient, no waiting. They advised it was below the recommended 10 degrees C also that it could be thinned with water up to 10%. Problem solved. I wonder if Ronseal would like to run the country.26/04/24. I now recon it’s worth five stars. No damage & no unremovable blemishes despite everyday use. Tea mugs, wine glasses - you name it- no problem.

The product is good in terms of smell, consistency and ease of application etc but having read the reviews I thought it would be the right choice for waterproofing a whitewashed wooden A Board. Unfortunately, it turned my board a pale yellow, so please be careful, crystal clear does not apply when used for this purpose.

This varnish is ideal if you don't want a high gloss finish. Good purchase.

What can we say ronseal "does what it says on the tin" just make sure to use a good brush

The ease of use and the fact that brushes are cleanable after ..

Worked perfectly for what I wanted. I've been looking for a varnish to use on crafts (such as air dry clay etc) to enable them for display outdoors. All other varnishes I've tried have not been *clear* (despite saying *clear*) they have always left a yellow tint to them.... but not this!!! Held the vibrant paints + colours really well.... even the white was still white-not ivory / cream. I did 5 coats on mine to ensure waterproof - they're still standing strong (which is pretty good as I'm in the UK!!) Amazing product for what I needed - as for varnishing wood.... no idea!!!

I bought this to seal the wooden troughs in my garden. On a dry day, they are weatherproof very quickly. Important to follow the instructions in respect of sanding down, so that you get good adhesion. Would recommend.