Timber benchtop help

[KingStreetReno]

Hi everyone,

We sealed our timber benchtop on the weekend with a Cabot's clear flooring polyurethane (was told that this was perfect for benchtops) and it has not turned out how we expected...

We sanded the timber smooth using a belt sander/by hand until it was perfectly smooth.

We then applied x 2 coats of the polyurethane in a matt finish and it has dried with a rough 'raw timber' feel to it! We applied it with a gloss roller brush and brush (as per instructions).

It looks perfect - no streaks or imperfections. It is also water resistant. 

I'm wondering if it is because we used a matt finish vs a gloss? Any suggestions?

[Jackson]

Hey @KingStreetReno - the matte finish shouldn't have a 'raw timber' feel but it obviously won't feel as smooth as a gloss finish. I'd suggest going over the matte coat with a gloss coat if you'd prefer that smooth finish. You may have to sand the matte finish back before applying a gloss coat but I'm not 100% sure, hopefully someone on workshop has had some experience with it. The alternative is to call the manufacturer.

[Simon]

Hey @KingStreetReno

I would try lightly sanding the polyurethane that is on the benchtop currently, and apply a final coat with a brush, rather than the roller.

In my experience, I've found that flooring polyurethanes can bubble with a roller (and in your case with a matte finish, feel rough to touch.)

You could also try a flat head applicator, made from a sheepwool material.

[Kermit]

I remember from this discussion about timber benchtops that some people were concerned about durability and ongoing maintenance. I will be interested to hear how you go with yours @KingStreetReno. Could you share a photo of how it has come up so far?

[pursya]

A bit late to this conversation.
I am worried that you used a belt sander instead of an orbital sander to get your final pre coat finish. I don't believe that belt sanders are made for that.
As for your finish, matt/gloss, if you don't want that high gloss finish (that shows every imperfection) or a dull matt finish, try a Satin. Best of both worlds.
I also would recommend several coats with light hand sanding between each to obtain that showroom look.
Good luck.

[Ratlegs]

If it’s tiny bubbles that has caused the rough texture you will have to sand it back with a a fine paper, say 240 then apply another coat. I would recommend Satin finish but, as seen on many YouTube videos dealing with epoxy finishes, a blowtorch will a soft flame waved quickly across the wet surface will eliminate the bubbles.

[EricL]

Hello @Ratlegs 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience in regards to the benchtop coating. Although this discussion is a few years old the added information you've shared will come in handy.

Were keen to hear more about all your projects and plans around the house and garden. Please feel free to reach out whenever you need assistance or would like to share a project with the community.

Eric