Expert: Jamie Yocono - 10/4/2008

Question
I purchased a painted cabinet (made in China) that I plan to retrofit for a powder room cabinet.  I plan to purchase a copper sink, cut a hole in the cabinet top for the sink, and install faucets...in essence making my own powder room cabinet/sink.  The cabinet top needs to be protected from water when people wash their hands.  What product do you suggest to treat such a cabinet top from water?

Answer
Lisa,

Wow, that was odd, I was just answering another All-Experts question when yours popped up. Never had that happen before, so you're going to get a super quick response.

The only choice for you would be a spar varnish. Spar varnishes are designed to repel moisture, and are often used in marine (boating) applications. McCloskey's brand is a good one, and probably available just about anywhere. But if you can't find it, if you just ask for a spar varnish, you should be OK.

A couple of things - if you can, you might want to use a sheen that will hide wear and tear. I would go with a matte or semi gloss, rather than a glossy finish. Glossy finishes show scratches; you don't want that.

Next, for your first coat, I might consider thinning it down with the appropriate thinner (mineral spirits, probably) so that it flows better and is more easily absorbed into the wood. Maybe 50/50 or 75% spar/25 thinner. Of course - since you're applying this to a previously finished surface, you should test this somewhere on your piece that won't show. The second coat can go on full strength, and you should have a good deal of (better) protection.

OK, hope this helps. If you have more questions after reading this, feel free to write back and I'll try to help you further.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
www.wooditis.blogspot.com