Adding a protective layer to your workbench surface is essential for its durability. However, selecting the right finish for your workbench can be more challenging than it sounds. Using the wrong finish can leave your workbench vulnerable to scratches, dings, and premature deterioration.
To simplify your choices, I’m here to provide my best recommendations on the ideal workbench finishes. With their guidance, you can confidently complete your finishing project and ensure your workbench stands the test of time.
Reviews of the Top Finishes for a Workbench Top
1. General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain
You can use the General Finishes Oil-Base Gel Stain for your workbench top for a hassle-free application. It’s easy to apply, and you can achieve your desired look using a foam brush or lint-free cloth. I like its gel formulation making it flow evenly without drips or runs.
Because of its dense texture, the curing process takes a bit longer. However, the extended waiting time is justified by the superior outcomes it offers compared to alternative gel stains.
I prefer this oil-based gel stain for a more lustrous finish. It’s ideal for difficult woods such as pine or porous woods. It also prevents uneven penetration from having consistent color control.
What i Like
- I like that it's easy to use
- The quality of this product is easily noticeable
- No sanding are needed
- It has a thick consistency, no drips
- It's less messy to apply
What i Don't Like
- Hardens up after a while you open the container
- Needs additional time to cure after application
2. General Finishes High-Performance Water-Based Topcoat
If you want a less odor topcoat for your benchwork, use the General Finishes Water-Based Topcoat. It’s easy to apply using a foam roller and a paintbrush, which also helps to smoothen out bubbles.
On the flip side, I don’t recommend using it as a topcoat on your floorings, but you can rely on this coat for your benchwork top. In some cases, it reacts to the substrate resulting in a yellowish coat, but it’s less noticeable compared to other topcoats.
I like how fast-drying this is, with just one to two hours of waiting time to fully dry and cure. Besides, it has less odor than other topcoats.
What I Like
- This finish is easy to apply
- It leaves an excellent finish
- It can prevents wood chipping
- It has less odor/smell
- It has a quick drying time
What I Don't Like
- Less durable on floorings
- A bit more expensive than other topcoats
3. Rust-Oleum 242057 Painter's Touch Latex Paint
The Rust-Oleum 242057 Painter’s Touch Latex Paint is the best finish for a workbench in terms of simple and reliable coverage. You can count on this product for an effortless glossy finish. I like how it provides a smooth texture and an excellent hide of impurities on the surface.
Since it has a thin consistency, it’s easy to remove seconds after application. You have to paint at least three layers before achieving a very nice finish, but I like its 30-minute curing time.
Many woodworkers prefer this paint because it has a water-based acrylic formula and no toxic odor. It can resist chips, offering long-lasting protection from UV rays.
What i Like
- The quick-dry feature is a plus
- It's easy to apply with great coverage
- I like the excellent spreadability
- This finish is sffordable
What i Don't Like
- It needs multiple coats
- The consistency is somewhat thin
4. Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Paint Clear Matte
If you want your workbench top to have a farmhouse or cottage feel, I recommend using the Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalk Paint. This chalk paint has been the ideal paint to give my wood project a clear, matte, and vintage look.
Although you have to apply more than a single coat layer, it can easily be removed in case you made a mistake. Just use soap and water to remove it from the entire surface.
On the finish, it produces an ultra-matte velvety and smooth coat. Besides, it has excellent adhesion, and it’s an easy application with minimal preparation.
What I Like
- The finish is smooth
- This finish is easy to use
- It emits less odor/smell
What I Don't Like
- Need to apply more coats
- Too velvety for some
5. Minwax 63333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin
Using the Minwax 63333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based for a satin finish is a good decision. After painting benchwork tops, this finish satin gives my top a crystal-clear coat. It also gives a sleek finish with a classic sheen and a subtle modern look.
Comparing it to other water-based topcoats, this paint lasted longer. It can protect benchtops from external damages like spills, dirt, and scratches.
To have the best results, use a high-quality synthetic bristle brush and ensure to recoat the surface at 2-hour intervals. In fact, this finish as best suited for softwoods.
What i Like
- The glass-like finish looks classy
- It has a better surface coverage
- It's easy to work with
- The low odor/smell is commendable
What i Don't Like
- It dries too fast
- It produces visible marks of the brush
6. Rust-Oleum 331052 Milk Paint Finish
While looking for a paint finish, I’ve tried using the Rust-Oleum 331052 Milk Paint. I did not encounter difficulties in applying it to the surface aside from putting it to a poly top coat to customize the look and texture.
Using this, you can achieve accent details after coating while ensuring the surface is durable. It has excellent adhesion to the wood surface, and you can easily achieve your desired shades due to its versatility.
If you want an attractive and unique finish, this is a good option. Besides, it dries fast, so you can finish your project in no time.
What i Like
- It has the perfect shades for wood surface
- I like that it has Less odor/smell
- The finish is relatively impressive
What i Don't Like
- Needs a poly as a top coat
- Need for maintenance
7. Jolie Finishing Wax Protective topcoat Paint
Using Jolie Finishing Wax as protective topcoat paint to achieve a more durable benchtop is recommended. Its matte finish has sealing properties that can protect workbenches, making them water-resistant.
Aside from that, it’s easy to use; no complicated steps to follow. Given its soft consistency, you can achieve a highlighted texture and your desired sheen.
But for best results, try painting the surface before applying the Jolie finishing wax. This is optional, but Jolie Finishing Wax is a good combo with paint. Also, this is a good finish for workbenches at an affordable price.
What i Like
- It's a clear finishing wax
- The finish is excellent
- I like how it spreads and buffs easily
What i Don't Like
- May require painting before finishing
- There's a need for maintenance
Finishes for Workbench Tops Buyer’s Guide
Workbench Size
Workbench has been a necessity for woodworkers. The essentially flat surface of a workbench provides space for tools and supplies while doing a wood project [1].
The materials for the workbench can be made of different types of wood. The important about the workbench is its size. Some antique workbenches measure 16 x 17 feet long, more than three feet wide, with a dozen drawers and doors.
But ideally, your workbench should be measured as five to seven feet long and two or three feet wide. This a classic workbench that is sturdy, cost-effective, and easy to build.
See Also: What’s the Ideal Workbench Height?
You can build other workbenches that give your preferred workspace, such as a folding and mobile workbench or a flip-top for stationary tools.
Types of Workbench Finishes
To determine which is the best finish for your workbench top, here are the different types and formulas to consider:
Polyurethane Finish
One of the standard finishes for your workbench is polyurethane. This type of finish offers lasting protection for your benchtop. Because of its less sticky texture, you can apply it quickly using a brush or a cloth.
You can also apply a polyurethane finish on indoor and outdoor surfaces. It makes the wood surface completely waterproof.
If you have decided on a polyurethane finish, make sure that you don’t stir or shake the poly products to prevent bubbles. Also, you have to locate a well-ventilated workspace. For a more detailed guide, here’s how to apply polyurethane without bubbles!
Oil-Based or Water-Based Finishes
You can also choose oil-based or water-based finishes for your benchtop. But between the two, I recommend the use of an oil-based finish. Although, most water-based paint products nowadays have better formulations than oil-based poly.
But oil-based is still a reliable paint that can penetrate the wood pores, making it ideal for protecting surfaces exposed constantly to drips and spills.
Wax Finish
Another type of finish you want to try for your benchtop is the wax finish. This finish has been one of the best options as it gives a benchwork top an excellent finish with added protection.
For the best results, you must combine wax finish with your oil-based products, such as linseed oil, turpentine, and wax. You may also add a rejuvenating coat to maintain the sheen of the surface.
Varnish Finish
Varnish or film finishes could be on top of your mind for your benchmarking top. Indeed, this finish offers optimal protection for your benchtop. Also, it gives a professional and clean appearance to the wood surface.
However, as perfect as it may seem, this finish is not ideal for your benchtop. You could opt for this finish but should not if you have other finishing choices. This finish is best suited for the legs and base of the bench.
Steps to Finish Your Workbench Top Successfully
Supplies Needed
- Finishing paint
- Paintbrush/ roller
- Sandpaper (80 - 220 grit)
- Shop vacuum
- Clean water
- Lint-free cloth
Step #1: Sand the Surface Thoroughly
Every wood surface needs good sanding. Using 80-grit sandpaper, you can start sanding to remove visible impurities on the surface. Then get 120 grit sandpaper to smoothen the surface. You can also use 220-grit sandpaper for an excellent smooth surface.
Step #2: Clean the Wood Surface
After you have completed the sanding, you only need to vacuum the surface to remove dust if you use an oil-based finish. For water-based, you have to clean the surface using a wet cloth.
You should consider sanding the surface again with 220 grit to prevent a rough final finish.
Step #3: Apply Your Chosen Workbench Sealer
Once your sanding is completed and the surface is slicked smooth, you can apply your chosen benchtop sealer.
For the best results when applying sealer, opt for a high-quality synthetic brush. The choice between a large brush or roller depends on the size of your workbench.
Step #4: Reapply the Finish
Then you can apply the second coat after the initial coat dries completely. The curing time for each coating layer depends on the climate and temperature in your workspace. Make sure it is also well-ventilated, especially if using oil-based paint.
For your roller and paintbrush, you should avoid soaking them with lots of sealers. It will create a milky or cloudy appearance. To reapply the finish, prepare a thin coat and brush it for at least two or three coats. The thickness of the paint depends on your desired finish.
Then wait for your last coat to cure to use your workbench top.
How Long Will It Take for a Finish to Dry?
Depending on the type of finish you used and the number of layers, each has a different curing time.
For instance, when using a water-based finish for your benchtop, you must wait at least 4 to 8 hours. Water-based has the quickest drying time. To be followed by a wax finish which could take 12 to 24 hours to dry completely.
But if you opt for a tung oil-based finish, you should give it at least 24 hours to cure until 48 hours. Then for oil-based polyurethane, the drying time takes 48 hours minimum.
These approved curing time for each finish relies on the temperature or climate conditions where your workspace is.
Protecting Your Workbench Top: How to Do It?
Regardless of the type of finish that your workbench top, you need to protect it to maintain its look lasts. You must also ensure that your workbench legs and build can sustain your woodworking.
Use a clean cloth to wipe off any water-based liquid or debris. For spills of oil-based products, you have to clean them immediately with a rag and mineral spirits.
Any liquid form could change the color of your benchtop if it settles a little longer. So to avoid this, use a coaster or mat under any tools and materials on your benchtop.
If damage occurs, you can always sand it using fine grit and reapply your sealer.
Is it Okay Not to Apply a Finish on Workbench Tops?
There could be a different impression on workbench tops without a finish. But most experts recommend using an oil-based polyurethane sealer to finish your benchtop.
Applying a finish on your workbench top gives it a decent look. You can also clean it easily. The finish offers additional protection and makes your benchtop sturdy.
More product recommendations for you:
FAQ
What is the best finish for a pine workbench?
The best finish for a pine workbench is a drying oil finish using linseed, tung, and walnut oils. This finish is ideal for pine benchtops to protect the surface against water and moisture. Once the oil penetrates the wood surface, it hardens like a shield of pine wood.
What’s the ideal finish for a plywood workbench?
For the plywood workbench, use a polyurethane varnish for finishing. The poly varnish gives your benchtop durability from wear and tear. Plywood can be customized as a solid wood to fit your benchtop. Besides, it’s easy to make plywood smooth and shiny and adding it with a poly varnish finish can extend its lifespan.
What’s the recommended finish for a butcher block workbench?
Aside from pine and plywood, you can also have a butcher block workbench. This benchtop requires a finish using teak oil. Using a teak oil finish on this benchtop gives it more durability and protection from moisture.
What finish ensures your tools won’t slip?
By applying polyurethane or oil-based products, you can keep your tools and other supplies from falling off your benchtop. You can also use latex and other finishing paints except for varnish. Skip using varnish, which makes the surface slippery.
My Top Pick For a Finish for Workbench:
General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain
Among the best finishes for workbench tops, I personally recommend using the General Finishes Oil-Based Gel Stain.
This particular kind of finish works wonders on tough woods, making it an ideal choice for crafting workbench tops in woodworking. It provides excellent grip for your tools and materials, ensuring your workspace remains secure and dependable.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
