I'm installing some butcher block tops on my workbenches and have used the search tool to see what others have done to seal the top. My use for the workbench is more engine related - thus engine oil spills, grit, and some other chemicals (e.g. de-greasers, lubricants) may contact the surface. Any options for sealing methods that resist these types of fluids so sealing finish doesn't get soft or even worse, removed? I know that wood isn't the toughest surface to work on engines but I'd rather damage the work top than a magnesium engine cover.
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Butcher block top refinish for garage
- Thread starter PeterN
- Start date
Im not sure Im using mine the same way as you are. But I just sealed mine with standard polyurethane. But then I have a large plastic 'sheet' that is almost as big as the bench top that protects it. Its a 'cutting' board of some sort, I think for cutting fabric for sewing. I found it in the trash so I can't say for sure. But its really durable and cleans easily. May be something to consider.
icenfire01
Well-known member
1/4" melamine plywood maybe? Once the top gets beat up enough just replace with a new one.
Kevin54
MEMBER EMERITUS
What about using marine Spar varnish?
Lassen Forge
Well-known member
If you're looking at protecting your benchtop I would go with a 2 part epoxy, like a deck coating. It will look really nice and take some abuse. Tho, well, if I were making a butcher block workbench... I'd want something that would protect that survace against scratchy, heavy parts. For this...
What works really well for a bench top is the same thick polyethylene used as commercial cutting boards in kitchens - we used to get custom made "plates" of this 3" thick and use it for push bumpers on the front of tow trucks - it would both be tough enough to take the punsihment of daily use as such and not wear out and not damage the vehicle we were pushing. IIRC these were a few hundred bucks each, but they paid for themselves the first time we *didn't* screw up someone's custome chrome bumper. And, oh yeah - they clean up really well with a steam cleaner.
Make a slot under the bench to store this polyethylene "cutting board top" so when you're pulling a motor, rebuilding transmission shafts, etc., you can grab it, drop it on the bench, and protect that butcher block. And if it ever gets totally gross or chewed (in about 10+ or so years) get the top reground - or chuck it and replace it.
What works really well for a bench top is the same thick polyethylene used as commercial cutting boards in kitchens - we used to get custom made "plates" of this 3" thick and use it for push bumpers on the front of tow trucks - it would both be tough enough to take the punsihment of daily use as such and not wear out and not damage the vehicle we were pushing. IIRC these were a few hundred bucks each, but they paid for themselves the first time we *didn't* screw up someone's custome chrome bumper. And, oh yeah - they clean up really well with a steam cleaner.
Make a slot under the bench to store this polyethylene "cutting board top" so when you're pulling a motor, rebuilding transmission shafts, etc., you can grab it, drop it on the bench, and protect that butcher block. And if it ever gets totally gross or chewed (in about 10+ or so years) get the top reground - or chuck it and replace it.
Stuart in MN
Well-known member
You can always cover it with a 1/4" piece of hardboard.
This is what I do. It's a sacrificial piece - when it gets too beat up and greasy, just toss it and get another one. You can put a coat of varnish on the hardboard if you want, but that's really optional.
Alexbn921
Well-known member
I used polyurethane, but for engine work I would put something like a rubber mat or polycarbonate down to protect it. I have both and use the mat the most.
My Old Tools
Well-known member
BLO and use it