Replies

1. 
   Gretchen | Jun 14, 2006 11:16pm | #1

   Veneer?  I don't have any experience but will this wear well?

   Gretchen
2. 
   coolbreeze | Jun 15, 2006 02:19am | #2

   Shellac is not an option for a bar top. Rule that out early on.

3. 
   PeteBradley | Jun 15, 2006 02:24am | #3

   I'm going to start sounding like a salesman for their product, but I really like Arm R Seal for surfaces that need to take abuse. a 2-part product might be the best answer for a really rough environment like a bar top.

   Pete

4. 
   Rich14 | Jun 15, 2006 05:31am | #4

   In the past, my first and only choice would have been Behlen's Rock Hard varnish. Everything else (in terms of bar top durability) is measured against this product. Not only is it up to the task, it finishes beautifully. Sand to 220. Dilute the first coat 50% with mineral spirits. Then 3 full coats as directed, sanding with 320 in between. Let the last coat harden for 4 full weeks then rub it out to whatever sheen you want from 4-0 steel wool (satin) to crystal clear using wet or dry lubricated with a little soapy water, up through 1200, then automotive rubbing compound, auto polishing compound and swirl remover. Gorgeous and very, very long lasting.

   Equally as durable and beautiful, now, is water borne poly. My choice - Varathane. Sand to 220. Spray or brush right out of the can to bare wood as the sealer coat. Then knock down the raised fibers with 220. Apply 3-4 more coats 24-48 hours apart, sanding with 320 to an even dull surface before each new coat. Let the last coat harden for 4 weeks and rub out as above.

   Pour-on products? No, no. A thousand times no!

   Rich

   
   

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   Edited 6/14/2006 10:34 pm ET by Rich14

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Jun 15, 2006 05:52am | #5

   I agree wholeheartedly that the Behlen Rockhard is an excellent choice.  I might add an extra coat or two for a deeper look and a bit more protection.  Even doing this will give a much clearer more vibrant look than any sort of poured on plastic. 

   I haven't been able to convince myself that the waterborne finishes are nearly as durable as the oil based, particularly if there is a harsh cleaner environment--sometimes the case with bars. 

   I don't think you need to go to a poly or a two-part poly unless this is the kind of bar where there might be dancers with high heels on top.  Then of course no one would see dings on the bartop.