View Single Post
  #7   Report Post  
Jere Lull
 
Posts: n/a
Default refinishing counter tops

In article ,
Cindy Ballreich wrote:

I have to refinish our galley countertops. These are surfaced
with fairly thick teak veneer (in good shape) which has been
previously finished with varnish. I would like to keep the
current teak (rather than replace with formica or corian). I also
want to keep the clear finish, but the varnish hasn't held up
well and I would like to consider other options. I'm looking for
something that holds up well in a marine environment, which can
handle the day-to-day bumps, drops, splashes, and spills, and
which will last for as long as possible. I would also like
something that can be removed without destroying the teak when it
(inevitably) needs to be refinished - which is a concern I have
about epoxy products. I'm hoping that someone out there has done
a project like this and might be willing to share their experience.

Thanks

Cindy


At home, I've had good luck with floor finishes, particularly the stuff
that is supposed to be good for bowling alleys. Sorry that I can't
remember the name; Varithane? (The projects have survived 20 years, the
cans long since gone.) NASTY stuff to apply, but it takes a licking.

I overcoated that with acrylic as the tough coating was sensitive to
alcohol and these were "party" surfaces. After years under the window
and many adult beverage and other spills, it's still bright and shiny.

I didn't go that far with our boat a decade ago. I simply used a couple
of coats of acrylic varnish. I should have refinished a few trim pieces
by now, but the flat portions are still in good enough shape for us. (I
don't go for a glass flat surface.)

Whatever you use, the key is probably many coats and lightly sanding &
refinishing when it starts showing wear.

--
Jere Lull
Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD)
Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html
Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/