The 6 Best Waterproof Varnishes (2022 reviews)
We consider a waterproof varnish to be a worthy investment in the long run.
Let’s take you step by step, type by type, and find the best waterproof varnish for you.
Also check our buying guide on Best Shellac Varnishes, which will help you understand market quickly.
Our review process:
Our Top Picks:
Best Overall: Buy: Waterlox Another Coat READ REVIEWBest For Worth The Money: Buy: Minwax Waterproof Varnish READ REVIEWBest For Bubbles: Buy: Environmental Technology Waterproof Varnish READ REVIEWBest For Exterior Use: Buy: Waterlox Waterproof Varnish READ REVIEWBest For Front Door: Buy: Mccloskey Waterproof Varnish READ REVIEWBest For Use A Wide Variety Of Critical Interior Surfaces: Buy: Varathane Waterproof Varnish READ REVIEWBest Overall: Waterlox Another Coat
Buy on Amazon The best part: waterlox coat costs reasonably and it is available to ship in 24 hours. The waterlox coat is great with the end result and it is effective. Many customers use only this product for all coats of finish. In addition, it looks great, read the instructions and it is good for your protection. Finally, the waterlox coat is ceramic and it is pink.Almost all buyers quickly discovered that the varnish is suitable for floors, countertops, etc. In addition, a few also found that the varnish does require some care when applying. Further, a few strongly agree that the varnish looks and performs as well as the first week. In conclusion, buyers found this to be one of the best varnish for daily purposes.Customers say that getting a waterproof lacquer, along with varnish is useful.
Top Customer Quotes:
- This will seal it, it will be water proof when you are done.
- This is good for several coats and it is cost - effective.
- This is very affordable, simple to apply, and no sanding required between coats.
- This is great as the primary component in finishing recipes.
Best For Worth The Money: Minwax Waterproof Varnish
Buy on Amazon The Minwax Waterproof Varnish is capable of outshining several other varnish featured in this list in overall features for the price point. The minwax waterproof varnish has very little odor and is non-yellowing. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. The crystal clear finish offered in this wood protection spray is ideal for use over all minwax oil - based and water - based stains and colors, as well as all wood species including light woods like maple, ash and birch. The varnish is ideal for relatively low in fumes and it goes on well. Above all, the minwax waterproof varnish is great with great stuff and it is very shiny.Most customers agree that the varnish is easy to apply but not water or heat resistant. In addition, a few also found that the varnish is actually trash but, after second thoughts, repurposed. Also, a few also found that this finish is lightweight, clear, matte and cleans up very easily with water. In short, many customers have used the varnish for more than a few months without letup, and it shows no sign of giving up.Top Customer Quotes:
- This can be used on a bathroom cabinet and looks smooth over the surface.
- Good if it's not a display piece you're putting the top coat on.
- It looks nice and is more or less smooth, but it's not the best.
- That is enough for 3 dressers and bathroom cabinets.
Best For Bubbles: Environmental Technology Waterproof Varnish
Buy on Amazon The Environmental Technology Waterproof Varnish's superior materials makes sure that it ages well with use. The environmental technology waterproof varnish is all that is usually required for a deep, attractive finish, However, two or more coats may be applied one over the other by simply wiping the surface with a clean cloth and alcohol prior to re-coating. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. This durable, resilient material requires no polishing to produce a high gloss. Lastly, the environmental technology waterproof varnish is a water clear reactive polymer compound.Almost all buyers found that the varnish is especially important with oak, cedar, cypress and madrone. Also, a few strongly agree that the varnish is a good day and a half worth of work. Moreover, they say that the last pour is called a flood coat and is exactly that, you flood the project.Top Customer Quotes:
- The 128-ounce kit covers approximately 32 square feet at 1/16-inch.
- It is very easy 1 to 1 mixing.... gives a glossy hard finish.
- This can be used in a mold with no color.
- This is great for the bubbles and helps them level out.
Best For Exterior Use: Waterlox Waterproof Varnish
Buy on Amazon The Waterlox Waterproof Varnish is capable of outshining several other varnish featured in this list in overall features for the price point. The waterlox waterproofvarnish is user-friendly and it backs off. The manufacturer says: Like all of our tung oil finishes, 90% of the resin portion of the formula is from renewable natural resources. And, this works with amazing results and it is good for several coats. Most importantly, the waterlox waterproof varnish is great for other surfaces and it is perfect for kitchen countertops.Most buyers quickly discover that the varnish is an heir loom piece. You may want to hire a furniture refinisher. In addition, they say that the varnish has a strong odor so ventilate well. In addition, they say that the varnish will not stop water damage as waterlox will. To sum up, the tone of buyers is very positive and we believe that the varnish suits the purpose.Customers discovered that getting a waterproof polyurethane varnish, along with varnish is useful.
Top Customer Quotes:
- This is made with an American quality finish.
- This is simple to apply and there were no streaks.
- It produces a satin sheen appearance (20°-25° gloss level).
- This can be used as a finishing system in conjunction with waterlox original sealer/finish.
Best For Front Door: Mccloskey Waterproof Varnish
Buy on Amazon The Mccloskey Waterproof Varnish's material feels more premium than its price would suggest. The Mccloskey waterproof varnish is great for the outdoors, is good for several coats and it is water resistant. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. And, it is flexible, is great for direct sunlight and it is good for exterior surfaces. Lastly, the mccloskey waterproofvarnish is white, dried clear and it is great for UV protection.Almost all buyers quickly discovered that the varnish is an oil - based clear coat. Further, they strongly agree that the varnish is great for hard weather exposed wood. Obviously, this product passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.Top Customer Quotes:
- This is best for your outside.
- It is pretty glossy for satin.
- This will hold up to the hot summer.
- This is easy to clean and looks great.
Best For Use A Wide Variety Of Critical Interior Surfaces: Varathane Waterproof Varnish
Buy on Amazon The features department is where Varathane Waterproof Varnish truly manages to shine. The varathane waterproof varnish is ideal for finishing table, bar tops, crafts, furniture and more. Choose from either crystal clear or pretinted mixes to suit your project. Further, the varnish is perfect for using a wide variety of critical interior surfaces. Finally, the varathane waterproof varnish protects items with an incredibly durable coat.Most buyers found that the varnish is a really neat result.Why We Like This:
- Dries to the touch in 4-5 hours and covers 6.2 sq. Ft. per quart.
- Use within 20 minutes of mixing; not intended for use on floors.
- Ensure your coating surface is clean, dry, and dust free before starting.