We consider a oil based exterior wood varnish to be a worthy investment in the long run. Let’s take you step by step, type by type, and find the best oil based exterior wood varnish for you.

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Our Top Picks:

Best Overall: Buy: General Finishes Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For All Types Of Marine And Household Woods: Buy: Totalboat Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Uv Protection: Buy: Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish READ REVIEW

Best With Low Odor: Buy: Minwax Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Handrail: Buy: Varathane Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Superior Durability: Buy: Minwax Clear Finish READ REVIEW

Best For Weather Resistance: Buy: Rustoleum Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Front Door: Buy: Rustoleum Satin Finish READ REVIEW

Best For Outdoor Furniture: Buy: System Three Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Stained Wood: Buy: Zar Great Varnish READ REVIEW

Best For Window Sills: Buy: Zar Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish READ REVIEW

Best Overall: General Finishes Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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The general finish oil based exterior wood varnish might be a relatively new release, but it's still nothing short of impressive in this year. The general finish oil based exterior wood varnish is best for ease of use and it never goes back. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. These oil-based finishes are formulated to be wiped on with a cloth or applied with a foam brush, and they penetrate to provide deep-down protection for that "natural" look.

The varnish looks good and it is made with good stuff. In addition, it has used 3 coats and it is very forgiving. Most importantly, the General Finishes Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish read the instructions, comes with high-gloss and it has removed dust.

Most customers opine that the varnish protects and brings out the beauty of the wood. Further, they also found that the varnish does have a yellow tint, so yes, more than likely. Further, a few say that this wiping varnish, which contains oil, does a good job " popping the grain " as any oil finish would. Obviously, this varnish passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.

• This has a lovely finish but for gently used furniture inside.
• This is a great wipe on finish, but not for heavy traffic applications like floors.
• This provides a food - safe, scratch - resistant and water resistant finish.
• This is workable like that, which is great.

Best For All Types Of Marine And Household Woods: Totalboat Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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Totalboat is known for creating pragmatic and minimalist varnish for people on the go, and its line of Totalboat Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish definitely falls in line with that reputation. The totalboat oil based exterior wood varnish is smooth and durable, with a gloss level so shiny it looks wet, even when it’s dry—making it ideal for brightwork. Marine grade varnish imparts a rich, clear amber tone that enhances wood grain. Moreover, it is not intended for use as a sealer (base) coat.

The varnish can be recoated in as little as one hour at 72°f. Moreover, the varnish has a viscosity similar to traditional European varnishes. Lastly, the totalboat oil based exterior wood varnish levels out nicely, comes with great stuff and it goes on easily.

Most customers agree that the varnish will give it an orangish tint. And, a few strongly agree that the varnish is much more durable than traditional varnishes. Moreover, a few strongly agree that the varnish has worked well so far on outdoor wooden items.

• This can be trusted for good quality, is always fresh and it has a beautiful effect.
• Creates a durable, waterproof finish that won't fade.
• Lust high gloss dries fast, hard, and wet-looking.
• Be sand lightly before the final coat.

Best For Uv Protection: Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish

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The Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish's high-end materials makes sure that it ages well with use. The totalboat gleam gloss varnish is easy to apply, dries fast, and doesn't need sanding between coats. The manufacturer says: So use our gleam satin outdoors on tillers, decks, coamings, hatches, outdoor furniture, and more. In addition, the varnish is easy to apply, with smooth flow out on bare wood, previously painted 1-part varnish in good condition, or over cured epoxy.

The varnish is designed for wooden boats, cures quickly and it works well. Lastly, the totalboat gleam gloss varnish can be used on interior surfaces only, such as cabins, trim, and floors, because they don't protect against the sun's harmful rays.

Almost all buyers opine that the varnish is suitable for clear coating on interior and exterior surfaces where maximum water and UV resistance is required. And, they also found that the varnish is great for tipping and levels perfectly. Further, a few also found that the ‘ glossiness ’ of the gloss variant is outstanding as well and the enhancing effect on the wood ’s appearance is very convincing. To sum up, for most buyers, it was just what they wanted.

• This has an amber tint that darkens the overall look.
• It feels like glass and it is good for several coats.
• This looks like many more coats.
• This is a super water-resistant varnish, which is completely different.

Best With Low Odor: Minwax Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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Next on the list, we've got yet another varnish that manages to win our hearts. It's the Minwax Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish and it's widely considered as the varnish that has the most suitable features. The minwax oilbased exterior wood varnish includes minwax fast-drying polyurethane or water based oil modified polyurethane or helmsman spar urethane for exterior use. Manufacturer says: Since 1904, we have been inspiring consumers to keep on finishing. The special oils in this woodvarnish spray allow the finish to expand and contract with the wood as seasons and temperatures change.

The varnish comes with wipe on products, is designed for wooden boats and it is perfect for patio furniture. Most importantly, the minwax oil basedexterior wood varnish is ideal for use on doors, windows, trim, bathroom cabinets, bar tops, kitchen countertops, outdoor furniture and more.

Almost all customers found that the varnish can, but you need to let it dry in a warm building. In addition, they strongly agree that the varnish is good for those tight to reach spots. Furthermore, a few also found that the varnish will take fewer coats. So, customers were very happy to recommend it to friends and would-be buyers.

• This is too hot (direct sunlight), too humid, or brushed on too thick.
• This has been holding up water and plates.
• Perfect for patio furniture, exterior doors, bar tops, window sills, wooden boats.
• This is perfect, not only does it preserve the paint but creates an ultimate finish.

Best For Handrail: Varathane Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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The Varathane line of varnish comes in a pretty wide variety of styles, so you can definitely find one that suits your individual preferences and needs. The Varathane Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish is ideal for great protection and it has repeated the process. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Further, it has great results, is odorless and it drys quickly.

Lastly, the varathane oil based exteriorwood varnish is ideal for interior projects like furniture, doors, cabinets and trim.

Most buyers find that the varnish is the best glaze to use on projects, even after acrylic paint. And, a few also found that the varnish is great with oil based, with no noticeable "tint" over off white. Also, a few also found that this sealer/varnish is about the consistency of 2 percent milk. In conclusion, most buyers found the varnish is functionally comfortable and no one questions it.

• This will vary from region to region.
• This dried clear and it goes on milky.
• This comes out really well. To add to that, it has held up really well.
• This will definitely yellow over paint.

Best For Superior Durability: Minwax Clear Finish

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Minwax offers a variety of varnishs for personal choice and yet maintains quality in all the variants. The Minwax Clear Finish has little odor, cleans up easily with soap and water and can be done in only 2 hours. After final coat, allow 24 hours before light use. The water - based clear top coat combines superior durability with the beauty of traditional polyurethane.

The Varnish is America’s leading brand of wood finishing and wood care projects. In addition, the varnish can be used on both finished and unfinished wood projects, and is available in a variety of sheens. Above all, the minwax clear finish dries very fast and it is very strong.

Most customers quickly discovered that the varnish definitely applies and dries smoother than traditional poly, even with a brush. Also, they strongly agree that the varnish can leak in shipment and ruin a wooster brush as it rattles around. And, they strongly agree that the water - based coatings tend to have poor adhesion and scratch easily. In short, many customers have used the minwax clear finish for more than a few months without any issues, and it shows no sign of giving up.

• This provides a durable coating and cleans up with hot water.
• This offers a great finish to furniture.
• This looks and feels great and will leave brush strokes.
• Oil-modified polyurethane requires a third coat.

Best For Weather Resistance: Rustoleum Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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The Rustoleum Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish is suitable and reliable and fits well with your daily purpose. The rustoleum oilbased exterior wood varnish protects the surface from sun damage. Based formula dries fast and cleans up with soap and water. Also, it provides a classical and natural appearance.

The varnish is great for weather resistance and it sprays evenly. And, it works over paint and it is very strong. Most importantly, the rustoleum oil based exterior woodvarnish allows application on hard to reach areas such as indents or holes.

Most buyers find that the varnish is sprayed on pretty thick, though even then, it should turn clear when it dry. Further, they say that the varnish is modern masters master clear supreme. And, a few strongly agree that the varnish is good for much other than a base coat that is clear. Overall, for most buyers, it was what they were looking for.

• This protects outdoor wood surfaces such as furniture, fences, boats, trim and more.
• This is best for low humidity and it goes on well.
• This has plastic products in spray formula.
• This is easy to apply and will, hopefully, last a few years.

Best For Front Door: Rustoleum Satin Finish

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We know from years of feedback from readers, amazon sellers, and family and friends what most people want in a convenient and appropriate varnish. The Rustoleum Satin Finish is exactly that - it's a simple varnish that hits all the right notes. The rustoleum satin finish protects outdoor wood surfaces such as furniture, fences, railings, trim and more. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Moreover, the varnish is perfect for use on furniture, trim, railings and more.

The varnish provides excellent resistance against scratches, weathering, light, and more while expanding and contracting with weather conditions. Lastly, the rustoleum satin finish works awesome and it goes on smoothly.

Most customers opine that the varnish will eventually become super hard. Also, a few say that the varnish has a great sheen finish on many pieces of driftwood. And, they strongly agree that the varnish is where the spar urethane comes in. Overall, most buyers agree that the varnish suits best, and no one questions it.

• This is like polyurethane, it will discolor the paint.
• The Satin finish provides a classic and natural look.
• This is easy with rust-oleum varathane products.
• This has great results, is very happy and it went on smoothly.

Best For Outdoor Furniture: System Three Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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System Three line of varnish comes in a pretty wide variety of styles, so you can definitely find one that suits your individual preferences and needs. The system three oil - basedexterior wood varnish is designed for marine epoxy and exterior wood surfaces such as railings, doors or any surface where a clear, durable finish is desired. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Also, it is worth the money, holds up well and it is good for several coats.

Lastly, the system three oil - based exteriorwood varnish is exceptionally durable and it is made with good stuff.

Almost all customers opine that the varnish is wonderful and very durable in that application. Further, they also found that the varnish has excellent resistance to sunlight/ultraviolet rays. And, a few say that the main reason the varnish is used is to protect the epoxy from UV rays. Overall, the tone of buyers is very positive and we believe that the varnish suits the purpose.

• Designed for marine and exterior wood surfaces.
• This will yellow it at least some and over time it will yellow even more.
• This offers excellent protection from salt air and water.
• This is very clear and dries to a fine clear finish on most surfaces.

Best For Stained Wood: Zar Great Varnish

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Compared with other varnish in this category, the Zar great varnish has a convenient design. The Zar Great Varnish drys fast and it read the instructions. Featuring a tough, abrasion-resistant finish and self-leveling properties, it works beautifully on hardwood floors, cabinets, furniture, and woodwork. And, the varnish is dead flat and it has excellent results.

Lastly, the zar great varnish is an incredibly fast-drying, oil-based polyurethane that dries to a smooth finish on bare wood, in just two hours, with no brush marks.

Most buyers opine that the varnish can use a hair drier to get rid of bubbles... Youtube on how. Further, a few strongly agree that the varnish will look like you left a dry spot. Moreover, a few also found that the varnish is to be done if the entire surface can be finished brushed while the surface is completely wet and not starting to flash. Without any doubt, this varnish passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.

• This is an ideal finish for any painted furniture, including kitchen cabinets.
• This is easier to use than the poly available in the bigbox stores.
• It looks a bit more like eggshell, but leaves a beautiful finish.
• This looks like a fine piece of woodworking.

Best For Window Sills: Zar Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish

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We know from years of feedback from readers, amazon sellers, and family and friends what most people want in a convenient and appropriate varnish. The Zar Oil Based Exterior Wood Varnish is exactly that - it's a simple varnish that hits all the right notes. The zar oil based exterior wood varnish provides superior protection on exterior wood surfaces. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. And, it dries in two hours and it is good for window sills. Above all, the zar oil based exterior wood varnish looked good, went on easily and it went on smoothly.

Most customers agree that the varnish will work equally well on indoor or outdoor furniture. In addition, a few say that the varnish is perfect & dried to an antique finish. Further, they strongly agree that the varnish looks great after nine years. In short, at the price, they believe that they got a steal of a deal with it.

• This will stiffen and lift the paint, hope that helps.
• This is used to topcoat lighter colors.
• Outperforms other exterior clear finishes by 2-1.
• This will stay looking fantastic for a while.