Expert: Eileen Cronk - 11/1/2008

Question
I have a California style oak/oak parquet(possibly some veneer) top table, purchased about 25 years ago, which I have been using as a dining room table.  I now would like to use it as a kitchen table; but, I do not believe that it is water proof.  I have always used table pads, but would like to make sure it is water resistant before using it as a kitchen table. I do not want to keep it continually covered as it is a lovely table.  How would I go about waterproofing the table at this point in time?

Sue

Answer
Hi Sue
Nice to hear from you.
I have Minwax fast drying poly in satin sheen on my kitchen table.
This table never has a pad or cloth and I can tell you for absolute certain this finish is waterproof.
It does not mark in any way when wet things are placed on it.
I just never worry at all.
So..I suggest a coat of this product after you have sanded the table top.
Use 180 grit paper for this and it should not scratch this parquet top.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen