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Should I seal my workbench/outfeed table?

2470 Views 3 Replies 3 Participants Last post by Sailor, Jul 20, 2009

Sailor

Discussion Starter · Jul 17, 2009 (Edited by Moderator)

I am working on a workbench/outfeed table. The top consists of two layers of 3/4" MDF with a sacrificial 1/8" hardboard top. I would like to be able to replace the hardboard top someday if it becomes dinged and scratched. I also know that I should seal the MDF so that it doesn't swell.

The top is edge banded with a hardwood.

Should I seal the entire top (hardboard and all)? Or should I remove the hardboard, seal the MDF with some poly then replace the HB top? Or something different?

What do you guys think…..?

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MyronW

· #2 · Jul 18, 2009

My outfeed table looks like a calico cat. I tend to test finishes and stains on it. Bad habit, but hey, it's my bench…

It is built the as yours, so I'll change the top when it gets ugly.

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KentS

· #3 · Jul 20, 2009

I don't know that I would put any finish on. Unless you plan on pouring water on it, I doubt that the MDF will swell. You could put a coat of paste wax on if you like. Then it slides better as an outfeed table. I have done that before. When I do any finishing on any of my benches, I use card board to protect the top. That way they stay in good shape a lot longer. I also have one bench covered with plastic laminate (Glue comes off easier) It all depends on how you will use the bench.

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Sailor

Discussion Starter · #4 · Jul 20, 2009

Thanks Kent,

I just picked up a large roll of brown paper the other day for $5 that I am going to hang on the side of the bench so that I can put some down when I am finsihing/painting or whatever. Sounds like I may not seal it then, but I might try that paste wax!

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