sealing walnut

[Mike Swaga]

Hi all. I am using 1" thick walnut for a bar top and was wondering what type of sealer would be best to protect the would from spills and dings that I'm sure will occur. Thanks...Mike

[Robert Rea]

Hi Mike, I believe for a bar top oil based polyurethane would probably be the best choice for me.  Polyurethane has a built in sanding sealer and builds at a high rate. Three coats usually has a sufficient build. The best finish would probably be Pre-Cat or Pre-catylized Laquer. It is used on kitchen cabinets, but it needs to be sprayed. It is highly toxic, you must be 21 to buy it, and takes many coats to build. You have to ask for it, it is not out on the shelf. I have seen shops use as many as 18 coats for an exterior door. I use at least 8 coats for cabinets and interior doors.

  Hood finishing has a Pre-catylized Laquer called Magna-Shield I intend to start using. You can Recoat anytime, and no limit on number of coats. It has No catalyst/pot life problem or restrictions. It has a High Build rate and is Non-Yellowing. You can read more about it at   http://www.hoodfinishing.com

  Good Luck

Bob