Spar Varnish Vs Polyurethane. What's the difference between spar urethane and polyurethane? Regular polyurethane and varnish contain little, if any, uv blocking additives, and that alone makes them a poor choice for exterior application. Polyurethane can be applied with a traditional bristled brush or a foam brush.
For example, varnish, more particularly spar varnish, is best for outdoor use while polyurethane is best to use on indoor.
Head to head differences between them. Spar varnish and spar urethane are two very different compounds. Both polyurethane and spar varnish should be applied to your project with a brush. Polyurethane for a table top. You need to use the right brush and it takes a little practice to get the technique right. Is varnish or polyurethane the right finish for you? Spar urethane is a type of synthetic varnish designed primarily for marine use. Its purpose is providing a protective barrier against air moisture and water exposure that would otherwise, in time, damage wood.