Resurfacing table with butcher-block surface

blueman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> We have a table with a butcher-block surface that we plan to sand-down
> and resurface.
>
> What are the potential alternative protective coats to put on after we
> finish sanding?
> I would prefer a touch, water-tight surface like polyurethane to more
> porous ones like oil or wax.
>
> What are some specific recommendations for types of products?
>
> Thanks,
> Jeff

For food-safe durable finishes (cutting boards) I've had good luck with
General brand "salad bowl finish."

For general purpose durable use, you might try Waterlox. I have not
tried it before, but based on positive comments here I ordered a couple
of quarts from Highland Hardware and received them today. Looking
forward to trying it out.

"blueman" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> We have a table with a butcher-block surface that we plan to sand-down
> and resurface.
>
> What are the potential alternative protective coats to put on after we
> finish sanding?
> I would prefer a touch, water-tight surface like polyurethane to more
> porous ones like oil or wax.
>
> What are some specific recommendations for types of products?

If you plan on using it as a butcher block (cutting and preparing foods)
then only use a finish that is food safe. Walnut oil or mineral oil are the
traditional ones. If it is just to be used as a table then I think you are
on the right track with polyurethane. It provides a tough finish, great for
tables which will get used. The main drawback as I see it is that poly is
difficult to repair if you get a scratch or something in it. There are nice
looking finishes that are easily repairable, like shellac if that is a
concern.

Frank