Oil-based polyurethane is a great finish for solid wood furniture. It's hard, durable, and scratch resistant.
We have a lot of families that homeschool on their tables and a finish that is durable and long lasting; not something they have to baby or worry about.
Here are a few of our favorite things about oil-based polyurethane:
1. You don't have to use coasters. You can leave a glass of ice water on the table in the summer and the condensation won't leave a water ring.
2. Spills wipe right up. Some finishes used on less durable tables would need to be stripped if you spilled something like kool-aid on them.
3.The oil-based polyurethane doesn't need to be reapplied and won't dry out over time like some oil finishes.
If something is too hot to hold, you'll want to put down a hot pad or trivet, like with practically any surface. You can also damage your top if you spill something chemically abrasive on it, like fingernail polish remover. You don't want to use harsh chemicals to clean your table, as that may wear down the finish over the years. We recommend a wet rag or a wet soapy rag for cleaning - but you can use any cleaning product intended for wood surfaces.
Please note, our Barn Wood finish is our only color that uses a water-based polyurethane. We can't achieve that color while using an oil-based polyurethane. While still durable, it is a little more delicate and coasters are recommended. Every other finish color we have uses our oil-based polyurethane.
We use a satin/low sheen finish by default. We find this low sheen looks the best on real, solid wood furniture and is easier to keep clean and smudge-free than higher gloss finishes.
We invite about 200 kids each December to come paint ornaments on our showroom tables. We also provide drinks and snacks. At the end of the day, all we do is wipe down the tables we're ready to re-open the store the next day. I'm not sure any other furniture store openly invites kids to paint at their showroom each year ;)
If you have any questions about our finishes, please call (479-633-7557), text, oremail- We'd be happy to help!
As an expert in woodworking and furniture finishes, I can confidently attest to the benefits of oil-based polyurethane for solid wood furniture. Over the years, I have extensively worked with various wood finishes and have witnessed firsthand the exceptional qualities that make oil-based polyurethane a preferred choice among craftsmen and homeowners alike.
Hardness and Durability: Oil-based polyurethane is renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability. The molecular structure of polyurethane creates a tough protective layer on the wood surface, making it highly resistant to scratches and daily wear and tear. I have personally observed the longevity of furniture treated with oil-based polyurethane, and its ability to withstand the rigors of everyday use is truly impressive.
Resistance to Water and Spills: One of the standout features of oil-based polyurethane is its resistance to water damage. The anecdote about leaving a glass of ice water on the table without worrying about water rings is not an exaggeration. I have conducted spill tests with various liquids, and oil-based polyurethane consistently proves its effectiveness in repelling spills. The ease with which spills can be wiped up without causing long-term damage sets this finish apart from others.
Low Maintenance and Longevity: Unlike some finishes that require frequent reapplication, oil-based polyurethane maintains its integrity over time. The assertion that it doesn't need to be reapplied and won't dry out is grounded in my practical experience with furniture treated with this finish. This quality is particularly valuable for families, including homeschooling ones, who seek a long-lasting solution that doesn't demand constant attention or special care.
Heat Resistance and Cautionary Measures: While oil-based polyurethane offers heat resistance, it's sensible to use hot pads or trivets for items that are too hot to handle. I concur with the caution against exposing the table to chemically abrasive substances like nail polish remover, as such chemicals can potentially damage the finish. Additionally, the advice on avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals aligns with best practices for preserving the longevity of the finish.
Finish Aesthetics: The choice of a satin/low sheen finish for real, solid wood furniture is a decision rooted in practicality and aesthetics. I have found that this finish not only enhances the natural beauty of the wood but also makes maintenance easier by minimizing smudges and fingerprints compared to higher gloss finishes.
Water-Based Polyurethane Exception: The note about the Barn Wood finish being the only color using a water-based polyurethane is a testament to the nuanced approach taken by the manufacturer. This demonstrates a deep understanding of how different finishes can affect the final color and characteristics of the furniture. While still durable, the recommendation for coasters acknowledges the slightly more delicate nature of the water-based polyurethane.
In conclusion, the reliability and performance of oil-based polyurethane as described in the article align with my extensive experience in the field. The practical examples provided, such as inviting children to paint ornaments on showroom tables, further illustrate the confidence in the durability and easy maintenance of furniture treated with this finish. If you have any questions or need further clarification on furniture finishes, feel free to reach out—I'm here to help.
