When deciding on a polyurethane for wood countertops, you have several options. You can choose an oil-based, water-based, or linseed oil-based formula. These coatings will be applied in multiple thin coats to ensure that you get a good coverage. Many people find that Rust-Oleum Triple-Thick Polyurethane offers the best coverage for a single coat. The Rust-Oleum product adheres to interior wood surfaces the best.
Oil-based polyurethane
If you’ve recently finished a wood countertop, you may be wondering how to protect it. Polyurethane is a type of finish that protects wood surfaces from water damage. You can use either an aerosol or rag to apply it. Before applying polyurethane, it’s important to sand the wood to a smooth surface. If the surface is still rough, you can use a tack cloth to wipe away dust.
When applying polyurethane, be sure to avoid shaking the can like you would a paint. Shaking the can could cause air bubbles to form, ruining the finish. Instead, mix it with a wood stick and use a quality brush. Make sure the brush doesn’t shed, and use overlapping strokes to apply the material. Allow the finish to dry for about 4 to 6 hours before applying another coat. If any spots are left unfinished, sand them lightly.
Water-based polyurethane
There are two basic types of polyurethane: water-based and oil-based. Each has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Having a basic understanding of these products will help you decide which is right for your project. Oil-based polyurethane is considered to be more toxic than water-based products, and it requires special handling and should be applied away from flame-causing agents. The cure time is longer for oil-based polyurethane, so it is important to take note of the timeframe for which the coating is supposed to be completely dry.
When it comes to choosing the type of polyurethane, a water-based one is better for most projects. Water-based polyurethane is thinner than oil-based polyurethane, and it only needs three coats instead of more than one. Water-based polyurethane can be applied to many surfaces in one day, while oil-based polyurethane has a limit to the number of layers.
Linseed oil
Linseed oil is a type of finish for wood. This type of finish is often more resistant to scratches and dings than polyurethane. Linseed oil is also easier to apply than poly. A few coats are usually enough, but you can apply three or more for a glossy finish. Linseed oil should be maintained at least once a year for optimal protection. If you have a scratch, you can repair it with a small amount of oil applied locally.
Linseed oil is extracted from flaxseed and is available in three varieties: raw, boiled, and polymerized. Each form has different benefits. Raw linseed oil is a natural product, and it is better than boiled or polymerized linseed oil. The only drawback of boiled linseed oil is that it’s toxic once it has been boiled. Likewise, walnut oil is often sold as a salad dressing. It’s easy to apply, but requires frequent reapplication, and it should not be used by people with nut allergies.
Zar brand INTERIOR 100% oil polyurethane
A good polyurethane finish will protect your wood countertops and give them a nice shine. Polyurethanes take a bit longer to apply than water-based finishes, so you will need to work in an area with good ventilation. It is also important to note that oil-based polyurethanes can be hazardous to people with sensitive mucus membranes. This is why you should avoid applying oil-based finishes to wood countertops unless you are certain that you are not susceptible to any of the side effects.
ZAR brand Interior Oil Base Poly is a fast-drying oil-based polyurethane that dries to a uniform finish in just two hours on bare wood. It has excellent coverage and tough abrasion-resistance. It is also highly resistant to household cleaners and alcohol. After a few months, a damp cloth can be used to renew the finish.