How To Seal Your Timber Benchtops & Prevent Stains

Are you tired of constantly worrying about spills and stains on your beautiful timber benchtops? Sealing your benchtops is easier than you think, and with the right product, you can enjoy a beautiful, protected surface that lasts. 

Cabot's Benchtop Clear is a clear, water-based, fast-drying varnish designed specifically for timber benchtops. This highly durable product is resistant to heat*, stains, chemicals, and oils, making it perfect for areas like kitchens and living spaces. Once fully cured, you can rest assured that your benchtops resist hot mugs and cups, spills, and everyday wear and tear.

Signs Your Timber Benchtops Need Recoating

- Surface appears dull or scratched

- Stains are becoming more difficult to remove

- Water no longer beads on the surface

To ensure your benchtops remain in pristine condition, it's essential to re-coat them regularly. The frequency of recoating will depend on the use and wear they endure. As a general guideline, consider recoating your benchtops every 1-2 years for optimal protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Recoating Timber Benchtops

1. Failing to prepare the surface properly
2. Not allowing adequate drying time between coats
3. Applying too thick or uneven coats

Application Guide

Preparation:

- Fill any nail holes, cracks, or defects with Cabot's Wood Tone Putty

- Remove stains, dirt, wax, grease, and oil with mineral turpentine.

- Remove any existing polish with a suitable polish remover.

- Sand previously coated surfaces with visible scratches or severe wear back to bare timber before coating.

For Bare Timber:

1. Sand the surface smooth using 180-240 grit sandpaper, following the wood grain direction.
2. Remove all sanding dust.

For Previously Coated Timber:

1. Clean the surface thoroughly with Cabot's Floor Clean and allow to dry.
2. Apply a test coat to a small area, let dry for 24 hours, and check adhesion by pressing and pulling off sticky tape. If the coating comes off, sand back further to a sound surface.

Application:

1. Stir the Benchtop Clear thoroughly with a flat paddle before and during use (do not shake the can).
2. Apply with a quality brush, short-nap roller, or spray gun, working in the direction of the grain. Back brushing is recommended for spraying.
3. Allow to dry for a minimum of 2 hours, then lightly sand with 240-grit sandpaper to remove any grain raise, and remove all sanding dust.
4. Apply a second and third coat following the same process.

For Staining Bare Timber: Apply one coat of Cabot's Interior Stain Water Based or Cabot's Stain & Varnish Water Based, following label instructions, before applying Cabot's Benchtop Clear. Sand previously coated timber back to bare timber before staining.

Maintenance:

When the surface becomes excessively scratched and worn, it's time for a recoat.

1. Clean the surface thoroughly with Cabot's Floor Clean and allow it to dry.
2. Apply a test coat to a small area, let dry for 24 hours, and check adhesion. If the coating adheres, apply 2 coats across the entire surface.

With Cabot's Benchtop Clear, you can enjoy the beauty of your timber benchtops without the worry of spills and stains. Follow these simple steps to achieve a durable, long-lasting finish that will keep your benchtops looking their best for years to come.