Tough Clear Finish for MDF

[Chris Parks]

I have tried to search but the search engine does not like three letter words like MDF. I am in the process of building a multi use bench out of MDF. It will be the mitre saw table and general light working table for drawing etc and not for any woodwork as such. I want a tough clear finish for MDF, can anyone help with prior experience. I imagine it might not be a good idea to use a water based finish on it or does this not matter?

[echnidna]

Use a floor finish, they are designed for maximium abrasion resistance.

I have used cabots water based clear, it dries fast and hard.
I think it would be quite ok on mdf, try some on a scrap.

[Ironwood]

I'll second the Cabots floor finish.

I think the one I used was called CFP

[silentC]

If you want something really tough, look at a two part finish like Estapol 7008. It is designed for flooring and benchtops.

[joez]

Personally i would go for a finish that can be repaired because i would trash a finish no matter how tough it is.

joez

[orraloon]

Cabots 2 pac floor finish or any 2pac floor finish for that matter. A god way to get rid of the left over half cans that take over the garage. Do not use water based product on mdf as it sucks in moisture and swells.

[Ekim]

The Cabot's water based clear referred to above by Bob is fine for MDF. I have used the product on MDF shelving. I recollect the product is called Crystal Clear. The only negative is the fast drying time - no matter how careful I was, i couldn't avoid brush marks.

HTH

Mike

[Chris Parks]

Thanks for the replies. I might try the Cabots clear on a small piece and see how tough it is. I have a two pack of some description on my workshop floor and it is twenty years old now. That was a truly horrible job, the fumes were so bad I can stll remember it.

[echnidna]

the 2 pac is still like that

[artme]

Avoid 2 pack if possible. Very noxious stuff. I did a Brush Box floor with water based Cabots. Curl the Mo!!!

[Chris Parks]

My one experience of it on a 60 sq meter floor was enough thank you. Even with good ventilation we had to do it in stages as the fumes were so bad.

[silentC]

I have done bathroom vanity tops with Estapol 7008. It's no different to any other solvent-based finish. You need to take precautions regarding fumes. At least with a bench top, you can do it outside.

[bookend]

I've used leftover / out of date Ubeaut hard shellac on MDF jigs and it is great for sealing MDF and easy to reseal. Just wipe a bit more on with a rag.

It won't give you a smooth drawing table surface though, but it depends on what sort of drawing you are intending to do as to how mirror smooth you need it.