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Applying the Ultimate Sole - Instructions
Ultimate Marine Products, Inc.
q Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish Application Method
The appeal and warmth of a high gloss interior cabin sole cannot be equaled. We have successfully achieved a product formulation that exceeded, and continues to exceed our expectations for gloss, footing and longevity. If you are looking for a high-gloss cabin sole, astounding footing (high coefficient of friction), and want a product that requires minimal maintenance over the years, then the Ultimate Sole is for you.
Our Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish is a proprietary formulation of urethanes. Our High Gloss Finish contains a high content of urethane solids, it dries both clear and hard. It is so clear, it does not adversely tint or color the natural beauty of your wooden cabin sole. Lighter than competitive products, it's a 4 on the Gardner scale.
General characteristics:
q Superior Gloss
q Astounding footing
q Easy Application
q Excellent Clarity
q Top Notch Durability
q Excellent Leveling Characteristics
q V.O.C. Compliant
The Ultimate Sole High Gloss finish is designed for and appropriate for use on wooden interior cabin soles of power and sail boats/yachts.
Our High Gloss Finish can make an older cabin sole look better than new or a new unfinished sole enter the realm of astounding!
Coverage is about 125 sq ft per qt, or enough to do the average interior sole of a 35' sailboat.
By following these steps we will introduce a process and products for finishing or refinishing a wooden cabin sole. You can achieve satisfactory results with a little effort or absolutely astounding results with just a little more (effort that is). The good news is that you can achieve these results in one weekend. The sample sole on display in our booth at the Fall/Winter boat shows was completed in one weekend starting at 3pm on a Friday afternoon.
We will make it easy for you.
What is the Process for achieving astounding results?
There is actually just a little difference in applying our products on an older cabin sole versus a new sole.
Ultimate Sole APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Detailed Below for:
A. FRESHLY STRIPPED CABIN SOLES
B: BRAND NEW UNFINISHED CABIN SOLES
C: OVER EXISTING CABIN SOLE FINISHES
D: PREVIOUSLY OILED CABIN SOLES
Compatibility
We have tested the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish on the following woods: teak, holly, oak, maple, ash, beech, mahogany, cherry, walnut, and pine and found Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish products to be 100% compatible. While the finish may be 100% compatible with other woods, we have not tested other woods or materials thus the applicator and/or end user takes all responsibility for the results on woods or other materials not specifically listed above.
Application Tips and Tools:
Youˇ¦ll need a few two or three inch foam brushes, one for each coat. Be sure to use high quality foam brushes such as those manufactured in the USA by Jen Mfg called ˇ§Poly-Brush. Theyˇ¦ll hold up much better than many of the cheaper imports available at discount. Bristle brushes will make application more difficult and minimize the quality of the finish.
q Several sheets of 220-grit dry sand paper and some wet-or-dry (black) 220 and 320-grit paper
q Sanding Block
q Non-Linting Tack Cloths
q Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner
q Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer
q Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish
A: FRESHLY STRIPPED CABIN SOLES
1. Cleaning and Preparation
We will assume that your sole is freshly stripped, clean, and blemish free. Sanding, under these circumstances is not usually needed. If you deem that a light sanding is desired, then lightly sand with 220 grit dry paper. If you sand, lightly hand sand using a sanding block. Remember, most cabins soles are a thin veneer (1/64th inch) over plywood. DO NOT POWER SAND.
2. Vacuum and Tacking
Whether you have sanded or not you should thoroughly vacuum the sole. Following the vacuuming, tack the sole completely with a non-linting cloth (such as cheesecloth) using the Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner. This step removes the remaining dust and should be done immediately prior to sealing the sole with Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer.
- Sealing the Wood
The Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer is formulated to quickly fill the grain and prepare the sole for the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish. The Sanding Sealer has both excellent adhesion and leveling characteristics. Two or three coats are usually adequate for freshly stripped soles. Sanding sealer can be re-coated without further sanding within a 24-hour period, after that you must lightly sand (220 grit), vacuum and tack again before you continue.
- The Finish is in sight
Prior to applying the Gloss Finish you should lightly sand with 220-grit paper to level the nap of the wood (it will feel like fine sandpaper prior to sanding), vacuum again, and thoroughly tack, using clean tack cloths and Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner.
- The Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish
Hatches and ports should be just cracked open. Forced-air heat or air-conditioning should be turned of as the movement of air will blow particulate material into the finish.
Minimum sole temperature for application is 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius.
Minimum humidity for proper drying and curing is NO LESS THAN 45%
Product was developed to be applied with Poly-Foam brushes by Jen Mfg.
Applying the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish is actually the most satisfying part of the process. Once you have the foundation of your sole established (sealed) you will find that the finish glides on almost effortlessly. All Finish coats are put on with the grain (unless you have a parquet floor). The consistency of the finish requires that you apply it evenly, then lightly level, and lightly tipˇKthen let it self-level and de-foam. Do Not Over Brush the finish. You may apply additional coats about 2 hours after each coat is dry to the touch (usually 6 hours). No sanding is required or desired if re-coated within 24 hours. After 24 hours, you need to sand using 320-grit paper. You should test a small area to make sure that the Finish is cured. Once certain that the finish is cured, sand the entire sole with 320 grit sandpaper. Again you should vacuum the sole, or wipe down with damp towels, allow it to dry and then tack with fresh tack cloths and apply your final coat of High Gloss Finish.
You may put as many coats of Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish on your sole as you see fit. We have experimented and found that 3 coats will give you a remarkably good finish providing that you have prepared and sealed the wood properly.
You know have achieved astounding results!! Time to "reflect" in your success!!
B: BRAND NEW UNFINISHED CABIN SOLES
1. Cleaning and Preparation
We will assume that your sole is brand new, clean, and blemish free. Sanding, under these circumstances is not usually needed. If you deem that a light sanding is desired, then lightly sand with 220 grit dry paper. If you sand, lightly hand sand using a sanding block. Remember, most cabins soles are a thin veneer (1/64th inch) over plywood. DO NOT POWER SAND.
- Vacuum and Tacking
Whether you have sanded or not you should thoroughly vacuum the sole. Following the vacuuming, tack the sole completely with a non-linting cloth (such as cheesecloth) using the Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner. This step removes the remaining dust and should be done immediately prior to sealing the sole with Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer.
- Sealing the Wood
The Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer is formulated to quickly fill the grain and prepare the sole for the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish. The Sanding Sealer has both excellent adhesion and leveling characteristics. Two or three coats are usually adequate for new unfinished soles. Sanding sealer can be re-coated without further sanding within a 24-hour period, after that you must lightly sand (220 grit), vacuum and tack again before you continue.
- The Finish is in sight
Prior to applying the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish you should lightly sand with 220-grit paper to level the nap of the wood (it will feel like fine sandpaper prior to sanding), vacuum again, and thoroughly tack, using clean tack cloths and Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner.
- The Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish
Hatches and ports should be just cracked open. Forced-air heat or air-conditioning should be turned of as the movement of air will blow particulate material into the finish.
Minimum sole temperature for application is 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius.
Minimum humidity for proper drying and curing is NO LESS THAN 45%
Product was developed to be applied with Poly-Foam brushes by Jen Mfg.
Applying the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish is actually the most satisfying part of the process. Once you have the foundation of your sole established (sealed) you will find that the finish glides on almost effortlessly. All Finish coats are put on with the grain (unless you have a parquet floor). The consistency of the finish requires that you apply it evenly, then lightly level, and lightly tipˇKthen let it self-level and de-foam. Do Not Over Brush the finish. You may apply additional coats about 2 hours after each coat is dry to the touch (usually 6 hours). No sanding is required or desired if re-coated within 24 hours. After 24 hours, you need to sand using 320-grit paper. You should test a small area to make sure that the Finish is cured. Once certain that the finish is cured, sand the entire sole with 320 grit sandpaper. Again you should vacuum the sole, or wipe down with damp towels, allow to dry and then tack with fresh tack cloths and apply your final coat of High Gloss Finish.
You may put as many coats of Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish on your sole as you see fit. We have experimented and found that 3 coats will give you a remarkably good finish providing that you have prepared and sealed the wood properly.
You know have achieved astounding results!! Time to "reflect" in your success!!
C: OVER EXISTING CABIN SOLE FINISHES
1. Cleaning and Preparation
We will assume that the finish on your sole is, clean, and blemish free. Wet sand the sole with 220-grit wet/dry paper. Lightly hand sand using a sanding block. You are leveling and preparing the surface, not attempting to remove all of the existing finish. Remember, most cabins soles are a thin veneer (1/64th inch) over plywood. DO NOT POWER SAND.
- Vacuum and Tacking
Once you have sanded you should thoroughly vacuum the sole. Following the vacuuming, tack the sole completely with a non-linting cloth (such as cheesecloth) using the Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner. This step removes the remaining dust and other particulate materials. Be certain that your sole is extra clean prior to the next step.
3. The Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish
Hatches and ports should be just cracked open. Forced-air heat or air-conditioning should be turned off, as the movement of air will blow particulate material into the finish.
Minimum sole temperature for application is 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius.
Minimum humidity for proper drying and curing is NO LESS THAN 45%
Product was developed to be applied with Poly-Foam brushes by Jen Mfg.
Applying the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish is actually the most satisfying part of the process. You will find that the finish glides on almost effortlessly. All Finish coats are put on with the grain (unless you have a parquet floor). The consistency of the finish requires that you apply it evenly, then lightly level by tipping lightly with your brush - then let it self-level and de-foam. Do Not Over Brush the finish. You may apply additional coats about 2 hours after each coat is dry to the touch (usually 6 hours). No sanding is required or desired if re-coated within 24 hours. After 24 hours, you need to sand using 320-grit paper. You should test a small area to make sure that the Finish is cured. Once certain that the finish is cured, sand the entire sole with 320 grit sandpaper. Again you should vacuum the sole, or wipe down with damp towels, allow to dry then tack with fresh tack cloths and apply your final coat of High Gloss Finish.
You may put as many coats of Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish on your sole as you see fit. We have experimented and found that 3 coats will give you a remarkably good finish providing that you have prepared and sealed the wood properly.
You know have achieved astounding results!! Time to "reflect" in your success!!
D: PREVIOUSLY OILED CABIN SOLES
General
Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finishing System is not compatible with oiled cabin soles unless the old oil and its by-products are removed before application. The process is straight forward and relatively easy. Once the oil and by-products are removed (or most of them) the sole will readily accept the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finishing System. Please read and follow all of the safety steps for each of the products used.
Things that you will need:
-
Purchase a citrus degreaser such as the one manufactured by Zep„µ Manufacturing and sold at Home Depot (Citrus based products sold at Grocery stores are typically not useful for this purpose). It is sold by the quart and gallon. The amount that you need will be determined by the amount of oil and by-products built up on your cabin sole.
-
Fresh water
-
Spray Bottles (s)
-
Scrub Brushes
-
Plenty of towels, rags, or paper towels for Clean Up
-
Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner
-
Non-linting clothes for wipe down
-
Rubber Gloves
Removing the Old Oil
Vacuum the floor first.
Mix 1 part Citrus Degreaser with 1 part fresh water in a spray bottle, spray on the cabin sole in 2-3 square foot sections. Take care not to spray bulkheads, built in furniture etc. Scrub with the brush with the grain where possible. Clean up with clean towels or rags. Repeat until the residue on the towel is either non-existent or very light then move on to the next section.
Once you complete the above, wipe the sole down with a clean hot damp towel and allow drying.
Once you complete the above, wipe down the floor with Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner using a non-linting cloth.
Evaluate your sole. Do you still have areas where oil and oil by-products can be seen? If so, try undiluted Citrus Degreaser and the scrub brush again. This process should remove the residual. Wipe with a hot damp towel and tack again using the Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner and a non-linting cloth.
Next Step:
Follow directions on this Tip Sheet for Stripped Soles (Section A).
E: Stripping the Varnish or PolyUrethane from your sole.
Most cabins soles are a wafer thin laminate - do not power sand
We recommend using a chemical stripper. The gel type is best because it does not migrate into places where you donˇ¦t want it to go like a liquid stripper would.
Examples of good products are StryEze, available at Home Depot or Sterlingˇ¦s 5F5, available at most quality paint stores.
You will need, in addition to the stripper, several inexpensive china bristle brushes, one or two plastic putty knives, and six to twelve 3M Medium Stripping Pads, rubber gloves, a bucket of water and/or access to a hose to clean the pads as they load up.
Follow all safety precautions as printed on the stripper label.
Care must be taken not to let stripper come into contact with bulkheads or built in furniture etc.
Apply the stripper with inexpensive china bristle brushes liberally. Limit your working area to about two square feet.
Use the plastic putty knife to scrape up the gross amounts of finish.
Keep working about two square feet at a time. When you have completed removing the bulk of the finish with the plastic knife go back and re-apply the stripper to the same two square feet at a time. Use the stripping pads to remove the remaining finish. The stripping pads will "load up" with stripper and varnish so rinse them as needed. You can dry them in the sun or between paper towels.
When the finish is completely removed vacuum the sole and use Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner to clean up any residue.
You may choose to lightly dry sand the sole, if so, sand by hand using a sanding block and 220-grit dry paper.
Be aware that most soles are laminated plywood where the teak and holly is wafer thin. Take care not to sand through the laminate.
Vacuum and wash the sole again with Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner.
If they're aren't any stains then you are ready to apply Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer. See the Tip Sheet on applying Ultimate Sole Sanding Sealer and Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish to stripped soles.
THINNING: You should not have to thin the Ultimate Sole, but if you didn't seal the can properly, or took a really long lunch with the can open, you will need to thin the Ultimate Sole High Gloss Finish in its final coat by mixing it with Ultimate Sole Waterless Cleaner in a ratio that does not exceed one part thinner for each part High Gloss Finish. If the temperature/humidity combination is causing the Finish to drag and not level, then thinning may be appropriate. Please note, this is not a frequent occurrence.
Any questions: Email us at info@ultimatesole.com or call us at 203-402-7287. Do NOT call the toll-free order number for technical questions - they don't answer technical questions because they do not have the answers. In a hurry for a technical answer? Call Steve direct on his cell phone at
757-374-3176. If he misses your call PLEASE email info@ultimatesole.com
Steve Tetreault & Frank Brennan
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