Howdy:
So I’ve just read thru the threads relating to finishing maple for countertops. Great info! I’m gluing up some 8/4 eastern maple boards for a 4′ x 5′ top for our Kitchen Island.
Specifically, is there any finish or oil that does NOT yellow or ‘darken’ the wood?
We will NOT be using the top for cutting, just general use.
I’ve got lots o’ experience with spraying solvent based poly and am never satisfied with the yellowing after a relatively short period.
There may not be a product that keeps the ‘white’ coloring of the maple but I figured I’d ask y’all
Randy
Replies
Water-based polyurethane is about the clearest one can find.
Go to http://www.homesteadfinishing.com and ask Jeff. He carries all sorts of water-clear WB and solvent based finishes.
Randy,
I think you are going to find that this is almost an impossible order since most top coats that provide both mositure resistance and durability will also cause some degree of yellowing. Perhaps others may have a solution but I think you will find that this is a "lessor of two evils" proposition.
Doug
Randy,
There's a few choices; a water-base polyurethane or polycarbonate urethane, CAB acrylic lacquer, or an acrylic enamel (automotive type clear). Durability wise, a good water-base poly will perform as well or better than the CAB acrylic lacquer and the acrylic enamel will give the best performance (especially if it's a two part, catalyzed finish). From a safety perspective (health wise), the water-base is best and the acrylic enamel is worst.
For the water-base, I like the finishes from Target Coatings ( http://www.targetcoatings.com ). For the CAB Acrylic, check with Sherwin Williams or any other wood finishing supplier. For the acrylic enamel, check with your local auto paint stores.
The maple will still change color as it ages and won't look as white as it does when it's freshly planed. A UV additive in the finish will slow the color change, but won't stop it.
Paul S
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