Thread: Workbench Top Finish - Newbie Help

Hi Popper

Toughest surface that I know is two pot epoxy - WEST System or similar - but it would be worth checking the types of solvents that you are likely to use. Even togher, abrasion-wise is a layer of fibreglass cloth plus the epoxy.

It might be worth repeating this question in the boat builders forum - they are working with these products continuously.

Cheers

Graeme

Cover the top with a sheet of masonite or a piece of zinc annealed sheet metal for working on a bike with oil everywhere, otherwise you will end up with oil on your timber for sure.

Just a suggestion

regards,
Jill

G'day Popper and welcome to our world. Good to see you here.

Dual purpose is always a problem. I think Jill's suggestion is very sound. I would have a removable top that could be put in place when the need arises.

A piece of masonite as Jill said for the bike stuff. As for a finish I've never bothered but a coat of varnish every now and again would be fine. Mine is just an MDF top with a masonite top sheet of bracing material. When it get really ratty its off to the tip and another goes on in its place.

Hi Popper

Engineering work and woodwork are never really compatible on the same bench. I had assumed that you really wanted a dual purpose bench and wanted to preserve that attractive timber finish.

For motor bike work a metal finish is better, with the masonite top as a good second choice. If the top is removable then you will want somewhere to store it flat (a bent bench top is a PIA ! ) Price differentials for galvanised steel and stainless steel have narrowed in recent years, so it would also be worth pricing both. Your local sheet metal shop should be able to quote to supply, cut and flange your bench top cover.

Cheers

Graeme