WaterloxOriginal Sealer Finish, 350 VOC, Quart, 32 Fl Oz

This is the only sealer we use. We have done two kitchens with wood top counters and a bathroom vanity and have not had any issues with water damage. IThey look great and we get several compliments on them. We love it!!

I LOVE this stuff! It is fantastic! We built custom countertops out of pine boards and used Waterlox to seal them. I used a very light shade of stain mixed with the first layer of sealer as directed by the manufacturer, then 2 more coat of the sealer and a final coat of this satin finish. It was VERY smelly even with the low voc formula so I definitely recommend good ventilation and a respirator. I did sand very lightly with some 300 grit paper before the last coat because we had a little bit of dust In spots that I wanted to get off. We have been living with them for 2 months now and they are very sealed. Water has dried up on it in spots around the sink without staining or damaging the wood. I haven’t had any problems with newspapers or plastic bags leaving ink behind or anything. I will say that it does highlight any imperfections in the wood, the nail holes and cracks the we used wood putty on stand out, which I don’t mind but something to consider depending on what look you are going for. I am very happy with it, totally worth the money.

I did quite a bit of research before finishing our butcher block island countertop. I wanted something that would last, especially around kids.I am not a woodworker or handy person so I read a lot of reviews, tips, guides, etc. Here is what I found.- We sanded and vacuumed the wood first, then used mineral spirits to wipe down- We added some stain to our Waterlox according to website directions. This layer was put on with a rag, other layers used a natural bristle brush- AT LEAST 24 hours between coats with ventilation. We used our garage, partially open, with fans- The first few applications might look uneven. It will even out.- The best description of application thickness I found was “thick enough to write your name, but not so thick it puddles” - this is a very fine line to walk! Try to blend drips and puddles ASAP before it dries or you will have to sand.- We did not sand between coats until just before the final coat a very light sanding with fine sand paper. 4 coats total for us.- It is very glossy when it dries. This will lessen as time goes on. While it is dry enough for a second coat after 24 hrs it takes several days to harden and then even longer to fully cure.Overall, lived the result and the long lasting seal! Highly recommend!

Although the drying time varies and isn't applicable for a quick finish, for projects that are meant to be displayed and used, tables, chairs, recipe boxes, book shelves, etc. it is worth the drying time. It sinks into the wood, giving a nearly impermeable finish. It isn't a top coat finish like varnish, shellac, polyurethane, but the appearance is far superior.

Ease to use, smell not too strong given typical products in this category but apply in well ventilated area. Like finish and drys fairly quickly. 2 coats easy to do if 1/2 day if weather above 60F. Watch runs as it can drip or pool on edges if brush gets too wet or retains too much sealer.User error. Best to use a high quality brush for clean waterproof finish.