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A dining room table is a focal point in any home. It is where families gather to share meals, celebrate special moments, and create lasting memories. It is also one of the most used pieces of furniture in a home, making it essential to choose a finish that will not only enhance its appearance but also protect it from daily wear and tear. In this article, we will look at the best finishes for a wooden dining room table, factors to consider when choosing a finish, and how to apply the finish.
Type Of Finish for Wooden Dining Room Tables
When it comes to choosing a finish for a wooden dining room table, there are several options to consider, including oil-based finishes, water-based finishes, lacquer finishes, varnish finishes, and shellac finishes.
Oil-based finishes: are known for their durability and warm appearance. They are ideal for dining room tables that are subjected to heavy use, as they are resistant to scratches and scuffs. However, they can take a long time to dry and have a strong odor that lingers for days after application.
Water-based finishes: are a more environmentally friendly option and are known for their quick-drying time and low odor. They are also easy to clean and maintain, but they are not as durable as oil-based finishes and are more susceptible to scratches and scuffs.
Lacquer finishes: are known for their high gloss appearance and durability. They are ideal for dining room tables that receive heavy use and are easy to clean and maintain. However, they can be more difficult to apply and are more expensive than other finishes.
Varnish finishes: are known for their durability and resistance to water and alcohol. They are ideal for dining room tables that are subjected to spills and heavy use. However, they can yellow over time and are more difficult to apply than other finishes.
Shellac finishes: They are a natural finish made from the resin of the lac bug. They are known for their high gloss appearance and are ideal for dining room tables that receive light use. They are also easy to apply, but they are not as durable as other finishes and are more susceptible to scratches and scuffs.
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Factors To Consider When Buying the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table
When choosing a finish for your dining room table, there are several factors to consider, including durability, maintenance, appearance, safety, and environmental impact.
1. Durability
It is an important factor to consider when choosing a finish for your dining room table, as it will be subjected to daily wear and tear. Choose a finish that is resistant to scratches and scuffs, such as oil-based finishes or lacquer finishes.
2. Maintenance
This is an important factor to consider. Choose a finish that is easy to clean and maintain, such as water-based finishes or lacquer finishes.
3. Appearance
Appearance is also very important . Choose a finish that will enhance the natural beauty of the wood, such as an oil-based finish or a shellac finish.
4. Safety
Choose a finish that is safe for food contact, such as water-based finishes or shellac finishes.
5. Environmental impact
How it affects the environment is also an important factor. Make sure you choose a finish that is environmentally friendly, such as water-based finishes or shellac finishes.
6. Frequency Of Use
Before buying Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table, you must assess the frequency by which you will use it. As a result, there is the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table that can be used occasionally and materials designed for frequent usage.
7. Size Matters
The material used in the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table should be checked carefully as well because it can either make or break your dining room table. The larger you are willing to go, the more costly will be the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table.
8. Price
The price of the Dining Room Table Finish is one of those factors that you will need to balance. If you purchase a dining room table that features expensive materials and design, such as marble or mahogany, then it’ll be very costly to replace when needed. However, with this being said, more affordable options tend to be not as durable, so it’s a matter of finding the best balance.
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What Is the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table? 2O22 Reviews On Amazon
1. Minwax 40910000 Wipe-On Poly Finish Clear
- Excellent Durability
- Ultra Fast-Drying
- Low Odor
- Easy Water Clean-Up
Product Description
Minwax Wipe-On Poly Finish is a great solution for those who desire store-bought as opposed to homemade finishes. It provides an extremely clear finish that enhances the wood’s natural color and grain pattern. This will be perfect for dining room tables that are used frequently because it resists water spots, alcohol stains, heat from hot plates, and spills.
This product is readily available in a wide variety of sizes including quarts, gallons, packs, and aerosols. It’s also very easy to apply; all you need to do is wipe the surface with a clean cloth or brush it on evenly and allow it dry for around twenty minutes until there isn’t any shiny residue left behind. Plus, once it has dried you can easily buff or wax the table as frequently as every other day if desired.
Pros
- The water-based formula is both safe and easy to use.
- Cleans up with soap and water so there are no hard chemicals left on the surface.
- Provides a very clear finish that enhances the wood’s natural color and grain pattern, which can be perfect for dining room tables that are used frequently.
- Can be easily removed if necessary because it can be cleaned up with soap and water.
- Ideal for kitchen tables due to its food-safe nature and protective finish.
- Offers a great clear finish which enhances the wood’s natural color and grain pattern.
- Can also be used on other surfaces such as bar tops, cabinets, and furniture.
Cons
- Doesn’t dry to a matte finish; it remains shiny until you apply additional coats.
- Easy to apply and offers excellent durability.
2. Mahoney’s Finishes Walnut Oil Wax: Food Safe Wood Finish
- 100% pure walnut oil
- Leaves a great satin finish on all hardwoods and exotic woods
- No petroleum distillates
- Just wipe on or immerse. Completely safe for food contact after drying.
- Include 1 Each of 16 Oz. Walnut Oil and 8 Oz. Wax Finish
Product Description
If you are looking for something all-natural with no harsh chemicals, then Mahoney’s Finishes Walnut Oil Wax can be the perfect solution. It is a non-toxic wax that is perfect for kitchen tables, whether it’s one that you use frequently or just want to place in your dining room as a decoration. This wax is ideal for cabinets and other furniture as well.
The wax is very easy to apply. Simply heat the surface with a hairdryer and pour some of the liquid onto your cloth or sponge; then, rub it on until you get an even coating all over the surface. It should take less than five minutes for three coats to completely cover wood surfaces, but it will be necessary to allow at least three hours in between coats. The wax is non-toxic when dry, but it can be difficult to remove once you’ve applied too many layers because the oil has soaked into the surface of your table; however, this doesn’t happen with just one or two extra applications unless you allow them to completely dry for at least thirty minutes before buffing the surface with a cloth.
Overall, this is an excellent product that offers superior durability and long-lasting protection for your furniture surfaces without comprising their natural beauty or quality.
Pros
- Food safe, non-toxic finish
- Protective coating for bare wood.
- Specifically formulated to be used on kitchen tables and dining room tables.
- Provides a long-lasting protective finish.
- All-natural with no harsh chemicals applied to the surface.
Cons
- If you allow it to dry completely (like with any wax), then it can be difficult to remove.
- Can smell quite strong during the application process because of the raw walnut oil it contains.
3. Tried and True Original Gallon
- Tried & True Varnish Oil is an all-purpose, 100% natural and food safe non-film forming varnish formulated using an 1800s Shaker recipe. The formula is just two ingredients: natural pine resin and linseed oil.
- Made from 100% Renewable, natural, food & skin contact safe ingredients. Just linseed oil & pine resin. No need for PPE or ventilation while using. Petrochemical Free, Heavy Metal Free.
- Pine resin hardens greatly as it ages, making this the most scratch resistant Tried & True product & it can be buffed to a higher sheen once the linseed oil has cured. Can be applied over penetrating oil-based stains, other natural oil finishes, milk paint.
- Perfect finish for cabinetry, flooring, tool handles, wooden doors and trim, chairs/benches, gun stocks, jewelry boxes, banisters, railings, or any other project where safety and scratch resistance are paramount.
- Tried & True products have infinite repairability and will last longer than a lifetime when properly maintained. No yellow plastic flakes as they age! These are 100% solids (no fillers, no solvents) so a little bit goes a very long way.
Product Description
Tried and True Original Finish is a water-based formula that cleans up with soap and water so there are no harsh chemicals left on the surface. This can be perfect for dining room tables, but it’s also great for cabinets or any other type of furniture you might have in your home. The clear finish enhances wood’s natural color and grain pattern so your furniture tables will look their best for a long time.
It should be noted that the finish is not as powerful as other finishes, but it does provide good protection from everyday use and scratches. The biggest problem with Tried & True Original Finish is that if you do scratch or chip off some of the surfaces, then there’s no way to touch it up or fix that section of the table. You will have to buff out the entire surface and reapply a new finish all over again.
Pros
- Water-based formula.
- Cleans up with soap and water.
- Provides a clear finish that enhances the wood’s natural color and grain pattern.
- Can be easily removed if necessary.
- Ideal for kitchen tables due to its food-safe nature and protective finish.
Cons
- Does not protect the top of your table like other products on this list.
- Not suitable for exterior surfaces
4. Epifanes Wood Finish Matte (Best for Fine Hardwoods)
- Rich matte finish.
- Hand rubbed appearance.
- Superior flow and durability.
- Good scratch and exterior weather resistance.
- Contains U.V. absorber,If recoated within 72 hours, does not require sanding.
Product Description
Epifanes Wood Finish Matte is a protective wood finish that provides an attractive matte finish with the great bonus of repelling water and other stains for up to three months. This makes it perfect to use on dining room tables because you’ll be able to enjoy them without worrying about stains or other imperfections for a good amount of time.
The finish is solvent-free which means it doesn’t emit any harmful fumes, and the non-yellowing formula ensures you won’t have to worry about your woodturning an unsightly yellow color over time. If you’re looking for a way to protect fine hardwoods such as ash or maple, then this is the perfect finish to put on your dining room table.
Pros
- Non-yellowing and solvent-free formula.
- Specially designed for use on fine hardwoods such as ash or maple.
- Can be used on wood that has already been varnished or polyurethane finished.
- Repels water and stains for up to three months with proper maintenance.
- Provides a matte finish that enhances the natural beauty of your wood.
- Considered to be expensive when compared with other finishes on this list.
Cons
- Expensive when compared with other finishes on this list.
5. Minwax 227614444 Wood Finish Penetrating Interior Wood Stain
Product Description
Minwax Wood Finish is a penetrating stain that provides an even coating and enhances the wood’s grain and color to create a beautiful finish. This makes it perfect for use on dining room tables because you’ll be able to enjoy the natural beauty of your wood while still protecting it from scuffs and other imperfections.
The non-toxic formula means that this stain is safe to use around food preparation areas or in any place where people will come into contact with the surface of the table, which makes it an excellent choice for the dining room. You can even use it on interior cabinets or furniture, so you’ll be able to protect every piece of your wood with this one stain.
Pros
- Features a water-based formula for easy cleanup and application.
- Provides excellent protection against scuffs and scratches.
- Can be applied indoors or outdoors.
- Penetrating stain allows the wood grain to show through.
- Non-toxic and safe to use around food preparation areas.
- Special formula used for staining interior pieces such as furniture and cabinets.
Cons
- It May not provide long-lasting results for some people.
How To Finish A Wooden Dining Room Table
Once you have chosen the best finish for your dining room table, it is important to properly apply the finish to ensure its longevity and protection. Here are the steps for applying a finish to a wooden dining room table:
- Clean the surface of the table to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.
- Sand the surface of the table with fine sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
- Apply the finish to the surface of the table using a brush or a cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Allow the finish to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Sand the surface of the table with fine sandpaper to remove any brush marks or drips.
- Apply a second coat of finish, if necessary, and allow it to dry completely.
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Helpful Tips: Best Wood Finish for Dining Room Table
- Always test the finish on a small, inconspicuous area of the table first to ensure compatibility and desired appearance.
- Allow the finish to dry completely before using the table to prevent smudging or damaging the finish.
- Use a brush or a cloth made specifically for the type of finish you are using to ensure the best results.
- Sand the surface of the table between coats of finish to create a smooth surface.
- Consider using a topcoat or sealer to protect the finish and extend its life.
FAQs
Can I use a water-based finish on a dining room table that receives heavy use?
While water-based finishes are known for their quick-drying time and low odor, they are not as durable as oil-based finishes and are more susceptible to scratches and scuffs. It is recommended to use an oil-based finish or a lacquer finish on a dining room table that receives heavy use.
Is it safe to use a lacquer finish on a dining room table that will come in contact with food?
Yes, lacquer finishes are safe for food contact and are ideal for dining room tables that receive heavy use.
Can I use a shellac finish on a dining room table that receives heavy use?
While shellac finishes are known for their high glossand protection against heat and moisture, they are not as durable as oil-based finishes or lacquer finishes. It is recommended to use an oil-based finish or a lacquer finish on a dining room table that receives heavy use.
Can I apply a finish to a dining room table myself or should I hire a professional?
You can apply a finish to a dining room table yourself, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to have proper ventilation and protective equipment. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is recommended to hire a professional.
What Is the Best Finish to Put on A Dining Room Table?
The type of finish you select will depend on the wood species, the level of protection desired and your personal preference. You can choose from lacquer, varnish, shellac, beeswax or oil finishes.
What Is the Best Finish for Restaurant Tables?
There are different types of finishes available for restaurant tables. The type of finish you select will depend on the wood species, the level of protection desired and your personal preference. You can choose from lacquer, varnish, shellac, beeswax or oil finishes.
Conclusion: The Best Finish for A Kitchen Table
Choosing the best finish for a dining room table is a matter of personal preference, as well as the factors of durability, maintenance, appearance, safety, and environmental impact. Based on customer reviews and ratings on Amazon, the top 5 finishes for a dining room table are Minwax Polyurethane, Rust-Oleum Varathane, Deft Interior Clear Wood Finish, General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, and Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus 13 oz. Aerosol Primer. When applying a finish to a dining room table, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to use proper ventilation and protective equipment. Ultimately, the best finish for a kitchen table is one that meets your needs and enhances the natural beauty of your wooden dining room table.
Reference: Wikipedia
