Top 9 Best Finish for Workbench

Constant hard blows can take a toll on a workbench top. These heavy blows leave dents, scratches, and blemishes on the benchtop, reducing its lifespan.

The best finish for the workbench should resist spills and protect the surface from marks and abrasions. Different types of wood finishes, such as oil or polyurethane can be excellent workbench finishes. Depending on what you use the bench for, they give it much protection.

I tested 9 products and found Rust-Oleum to be the best overall. Each choice serves a specific purpose, and I’m here to unravel the nuances.

So, keep reading.

Our Top Picks

Best Finish for Workbench

1. Rust-Oleum 250241 Diamond Urethane – Best Overall Finish
2. Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane – Best Bang on the Buck
3. CARGEN 3 PCS Wood Seasoning Beewax – Best Non Toxic Finish
4. Minwax Tung Oil Finish–Most Durable Option
5. Watco Rust-Oleum A65741 Danish Oil Finish – Best Beginner Friendly Finish
6. Waterlox Original Finish–Best Versatile Option
7. Furniture Clinic Boiled Linseed Oil for Furniture – Best for Kitchen Workbench
8. TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish – Best Marine Grade Benchtop Finish
9. Minwax Wipe On Poly–Best Oil Based Polyurethane Option

Best Workbench Finish Options-(Updated List)

1. Best Overall Finish– Rust-Oleum 250241 Diamond Spar Urethane Satin

Rust-Oleum Diamond Spar Urethane has proven itself as the best finish for my workbench. This is not just an opinion but a result of rigorous testing and comparison with similar products. The finish stands out for several compelling reasons.

First and foremost, its unparalleled durability is remarkable. I subjected my workbench to a wide array of tests, including exposure to moisture, abrasion, and heavy loads. To my amazement, this urethane emerged unscathed, protecting the wood beneath and retaining its original luster. The ability to endure such stress is crucial for any workbench that sees daily use.

What truly distinguishes Rust-Oleum Diamond Spar Urethane is its water-based formula. This makes application a breeze, and clean-up is as simple as using soap and water.

The quick drying time, only 30 minutes to touch, and impressive coverage of up to 87 sq. ft. per quart allowed me to complete my project in record time.

This product’s outstanding UV and weather resistance was evident when I placed my workbench outdoors. The non-yellowing formula, combined with the crystal-clear satin finish, provided a classic, natural look that still looked stunning even after months of exposure to the elements.

Unlike other finishes I’ve worked with, Rust-Oleum Diamond Spar Urethane outshines them with remarkable endurance and aesthetic appeal. It’s undeniably the best choice for a workbench, ensuring it remains in pristine condition for years to come.

What We Liked Most

Exceptional durability
Easy water-based application and cleanup
Quick drying time and extensive coverage
Outstanding UV and weather resistance
Non-yellowing, crystal-clear satin finish

What Could Be Improved

Pricey but worth it
May require multiple coats for optimal results.

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2. Best Bang for the Buck – Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish

The Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish is a solid choice and ranks as a close second compared to the first product, Rust-Oleum Diamond Spar Urethane.

One significant property of the Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane is its budget-friendly nature. This option is hard to beat if you’re seeking a reliable wood finish without breaking the bank.

Its other features and benefits include:

• This polyurethane is excellent at safeguarding wood surfaces from damage, whether indoors or outdoors.
• The Minwax Polyurethane ensures lasting protection for your wood projects. It shields against moisture, wear, and tear on your workbench.
• The semi-gloss finish adds a touch of elegance to your woodwork, creating a smooth, attractive look. Give your workbench top a glossy finish with this semi-gloss clear varnish. It preserves the natural beauty of your wood and provides a durable semi-shiny, elegant sheen for a modern look.
• Minwax is a well-known and trusted brand in the woodworking community.

This property adds a different aesthetic appeal than the Rust-Oleum product, offering more shine.

Minwax and Rustoleum provide protection and durability, but Minwax provides a lower cost, making it an excellent alternative for cost-conscious buyers.

The product suits anyone looking for a high-quality wood finish on a budget, offering similar protection and a unique semi-gloss finish that the first product misses. It’s the ideal choice for frugal woodworkers without compromising quality.

What We Liked Most

Budget-friendly option
Durable oil-based finish
Semi-gloss sheen
Fast drying

What Could Be Improved

Unsuitable for high traffic areas
May not offer the same level of UV and weather resistance as some alternatives.

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3. Best Non Toxic Finish – CARGEN Wood Seasoning Beewax Natural Beewax

Old is gold. If you are looking for an oldie finish that can keep the bench top modern and durable, your search ends with this product. Wax Seasoning is made using traditional techniques from a mixture of organic beeswax and mineral oil.

It is GMO-free, non-toxic, secure, and healthy. It also has a light, natural honey scent that is pleasing to the senses. This product comes in a pack of three.

This product is fast drying as it only takes twenty minutes to one hour. Touch the surface with your fingertip to confirm whether the finish is dry. If it is dry, it won’t feel sticky.

Wear gloves when applying, as the wax stays on your hands even after washing. If you use this product on your wooden floor, do it in parts as it takes longer to be absorbed, leaving prints when you walk on it.

This product restores your workbench, giving it a new, shiny look, even if you’ve used it for decades. The finish is completely waterproof, making it suitable for exterior applications.

If your tables have wine or coffee stains, you don’t have to use bleach because this product effortlessly removes them. This product removes years of dirt and wax accumulation, letting you start on a clean slate.

What We Liked Most

It removes stubborn stains on your wooden furniture
It does not have a foul odor
It is friendly to the environment
It is waterproof

What Could Be Improved

It takes longer to be absorbed into the wood.

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4. Most Durable Option-Minwax Tung Oil Finish

My experience with Minwax Tung Oil Finish was nothing short of impressive. This product’s unparalleled durability sets it apart, making it a great choice for finishing workbench.

Minwax Tung Oil Finish’s standout feature is its ability to penetrate wood pores deeply, breathing new life into even the driest and most parched wood. It doesn’t just protect; it revives, enhancing the wood’s innate beauty.

Maintenance is a breeze – a simple reapplication of this finish periodically keeps your wood surfaces looking fresh and vibrant.

Cleanup is hassle-free, with the option of using mineral spirits or paint thinner, making the finishing process even more convenient.

Once applied, Minwax Tung Oil Finish dries clear, leaving behind a natural, hand-rubbed finish that beautifully showcases the wood’s unique grain and texture.

And its resistance to water, acid, alkali, and mildew ensures your wood remains protected and pristine throughout the years.

Overall, Minwax Tung Oil Finish provides unparalleled durability, effortless maintenance, and top-notch protection. If you want your wooden surfaces to radiate beauty and stand the test of time, this product is the one to choose.

What We Liked Most

Excellent durability
Easy maintenance
Deep wood penetration
Resistance to water and other weather elements

What Could Be Improved

Need to be periodically refreshed.
May darken the appearance of some wood types.

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5. Best Beginner Friendly Finish – Watco Rust-Oleum Danish Oil Wood Finish

Watco Rust-Olem Danish Oil Wood Finish is an oil-based finish that stains and seals furniture, including a bench top. It helps protect your workbench top in a single step, resulting in a pleasant, natural hand-rubbed look.

You will only need to brush or wipe on and allow the penetrating oil to infiltrate your wood surface and preserve it. It works best on close-grained woods. This product is easy to work with and dries reasonably fast.

Applying two or three coats leaves your bench top looking new and protected. It is more suitable for indoor furniture and. The finish is easy to use and cleans effortlessly with soap and water. 

You can use it in the kitchen workbench as the finish is pet and food-safe when dry. Work in a well-ventilated space as it produces strong fumes when used. This finish keeps your wood from drying out.

For a beautiful finish, wipe the excess off after fifteen. The product creates a warm, rich glow to enhance the quality and appearance of the wood.

What We Liked Most

It is easy to use 
It cleans easily with soap and water
It protects and preserves your wooden surfaces
It is durable
It gives new life to your old wooden furniture

What Could Be Improved

It produces a strong odor

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6. Best Versatile Option-Waterlox Original Finish

Waterlox Original Sealer Finish is the ultimate solution if you seek a versatile and long-lasting finish for your workbench. It has a unique ability to penetrate and waterproof, making it an exceptional choice for indoor and outdoor applications.

The key benefit of Waterlox is its adaptability, as it can be used as a standalone finishing system or in combination with other products for added protection. This means you have the flexibility to customize your project’s level of waterproofing and durability.

Another standout feature is the protective yet elastic finish it forms. This protective layer shields your wood from the elements while remaining flexible, preventing unsightly cracks or peeling over time. The result? A long-lasting, beautiful finish that stands the test of time.

Additionally, Waterlox provides a medium-sheen appearance that gives your woodwork a touch of elegance. The finish starts with a 75° gloss level and gradually fades to a 50-55° gloss level over 3-6 months, ensuring your project maintains its stunning aesthetic. Choose Waterlox, and your wood projects will thank you for years.

What We Liked Most

Versatile and adaptable for various applications.
Penetrates and waterproofs wood for long-lasting protection.
Forms a protective yet flexible finish.
Provides a medium sheen appearance that remains attractive over time.

What Could Be Improved

Presence of air bubbles.

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7. Best for Kitchen Workbench – Furniture Clinic Boiled Linseed Oil for Wood Furniture

Furniture Clinic Boiled Linseed Oil is a high-quality finish. It is treated with hot air to make it dry faster, forming a tough, slightly glossy finish that does not wear out quickly.

Using linseed oil on wood is an excellent way to transform dry old wood. It also seals the bench to prevent cracking. This product works perfectly on all types of wood.

So you can use it on MDF and Plywood and get great results. This product soaks in well. Applying several coats results in a beautiful glossy finish. It produces a mild odor that will go away after a short while.

The finish gives you value for money because a little goes a long way. You can use it on food preparation surfaces as it is harmless when fully cured.

It does not bubble and is waterproof, therefore ideal for outdoor use. This product does not leave any oily residue. For better results, lightly sand your wooden surface before you apply. 

What We Liked Most

It is easy to use
It hardens your wooden surfaces
It is waterproof
It leaves a glossy finish
It does not bubble

What Could Be Improved

It is highly flammable

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8. Best Marine Grade Benchtop Finish – TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish

TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish is an excellent outdoor wood sealer. It is a waterproof finish for paintwork on boats, kayaks, strip canoes, furniture, outdoor wooden bar tops, garage doors, and other wooden items.

This product is ideal for verticle surfaces because it does not run or sag. It is not dense and therefore needs no thinning.

This product is fast drying, especially where there is low humidity. This product is ideal for use on furniture frequently because of its durability. It is easy to use and levels up well.

It is resistant to harsh weather, making it perfect for outdoor use because this product has a thin consistency; simply apply four to six coats for best results.

This product dries up fast, so be quick when applying to avoid ugly brush strokes. Use a natural bristle finish brush or a spray gun to apply this finish.

Gleam may be the most fantastic varnish you’ll ever use. It is in the right consistency right out of the can, allowing it to glide on so smoothly that you’ll doubt it is a varnish. It won’t sag even on vertical surfaces.

What We Liked Most

Resistant to harsh weather
Easy to apply
It has a thin consistency
Fast drying

What Could Be Improved

It is pricey but worth every penny

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9. Best Oil Based Option-Minwax Wipe-On Poly

Minwax Wipe-On Poly is hands down the best oil-based polyurethane option on the market, and its unique value proposition shines through with every application.

It is crafted with high-quality oil-based polyurethane, ensuring a superior, long-lasting finish. It’s available in gloss and satin options, allowing you to customize the sheen.

Another amazing feature of this product is ease of use. Applying it is simple, without worrying about drips or brush marks marring your hard work.

Its smooth and consistent finish ensures a professional look, making it perfect for DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

But it’s not just about ease; Minwax Wipe-On Poly offers unbeatable protection for your woodwork. It forms a robust barrier that shields against water, household chemicals, food stains, and everyday wear and tear. Your cherished projects look stunning and stand the test of time.

One of the most compelling benefits is the hand-rubbed look it imparts. This finish exudes a timeless elegance that’s hard to achieve with other products. Your workbench will exude craftsmanship and sophistication as long as you use this product.

What We Liked Most

Easy to apply
Provides robust protection against water, chemicals, stains, and wear.
Gives an elegant finish.
Available in different options: Gloss and Satin

What Could Be Improved

Somewhat yellowing
Requires more coats

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Workbench Coating: Types of Workbench Finishes

Choosing the right workbench finish is never easy. With Many finishes in the market, each promising you heavens, it can be challenging to pick the best one suitable for your unique project.

You need to buy a finish that will protect the benchtop and keep it stylish for long. Since workbenches get loads of abuse, you need a finish a simple repair finish if it becomes damaged.

With these goals in mind, let’s look at different types of workbench finishes that could be perfect for your project. 

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is the best workbench wood finish due to a few distinct qualities. It is less sticky, completely waterproof, and suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

It dries quickly to the touch, enabling you to recoat in two to four hours. You can lightly use the surfaces after twenty fours. It is also easy to repair if it gets damaged.

Cleaning the finish is also relatively simple. If you spill motor oil or other lubricating oils on it, you can effortlessly clean it up with soap and water.

This finish type goes well with plywood. Although you can use it on other benchtops, it works best with plywood.

Related read: Best varnish for wooden front door.

Oil-based or water-based

Wiping on several coats of boiled linseed oil or tung oil is one of the earliest and easiest methods of finishing a workbench. It is affordable and straightforward to apply.

Unlike a film finish, the oil penetrates the wood pores instead of sitting on the wood. The oil is a barrier to spills or drips while using your bench.

The most significant advantage of an oil finish is its ease of maintenance. To keep the workbench fantastic, apply another coat of oil regularly. You might want to scrape or sand the benchtop before using oil. 

You can also use linseed oil, oil-based polyurethane or tung oil on a softwood workbench to protect it from dings and spills because oil finishes take longer to dry. 

Wax finish

Wax is an excellent option for finishing a workbench. It offers reasonable protection and keeps the surface gorgeous for some time. You can also use it on bare wood. Also, you can apply it over French polish, varnish, or oil.

It’s also easy to maintain. You just rewax the affected portion and move on unabated. Another significant advantage of this finish is that you can make your beeswax finish in the comfort of your home.

Varnish finish

Film finishes such as varnish or lacquer provide the best protection for a workbench. They resist spills and protect surfaces from abrasions and dings. A film finish is lovely, especially if you’re constructing an “exhibition” workbench.

How to Finish A Workbench Top

Finishing a workbench top does not have to be stressful. Here’s how to do it.

Materials Needed

• Your favorite finish
• Synthetic-bristle paintbrush
• 80- 220 grit Sandpaper 
• Clean water ( optional based on the product you’re using)
• Soft Cloth

Step 1: Sand the surface extensively

Sand the surface to smooth bare wood with rough sandpaper( 80 grit). Ensure the surface is smooth and very clean. Work your way up and end with 120 grit sandpaper.

Step 2: Clean the wood

Clean the wood thoroughly after sanding to remove sanding dust and other impurities. If you use a water-based finish, clean the wood with a damp cloth and let it dry.

This might raise the wood grain, but sand lightly with 120 grit sandpaper to make it smooth. This will stop the finish from raising the wood grain and result in a rough final finish.

Step 3: Apply the workbench sealer

Apply your favorite finish with a high-quality bristle or foam brush. If your project is massive, use a large brush to expedite the process. Keenly follow the instructions on the can for best results.

Also, please pay close attention to weather conditions as they can affect the drying time, significantly impacting the results. Some finishes require light sanding between coats while others do not. So, keep an eye out for this.

Step 4: Reapply the finish

Once the first coat has dried, apply another coat. It is advisable to apply thin coats in place of one thick layer for professional results. Apply two to three coats before calling it quits, but it will depend on your personal preference.

Give the surface enough time to cure before using the surface. The rule of thumb is to wait for twenty to seventy hours before subjecting the surfaces to any pressure.

How to Protect Workbench Top

To protect a workbench top, use a drying oil finish or a thinned coat of polyurethane varnish. Allow the finish to cure fully. It forms a thin protective film that prevents glue, paint, and other scum from adhering to the workbench top.

When it begins to wear off (which will happen quickly with consistent use), simply grab a random-orbit sander and sand it down before applying more finish. 

If the surface has large dents or surface distortions, restore the surface by planing it flat and applying the oil finish again.

You could also use polyurethane, varnish, or wax. These products are easy to maintain and clean and offer the benchtop unmatched protection. 

How Long Does It Take for Finish to Dry?

There are no hard and fast rules for how long a finish takes to dry. It depends on a specific product, the application method, and weather conditions in your locality.

However, the approved wait time for water-based finishes is four to eight hours. A wax finish takes twelve to twenty-four hours to dry completely.

Tung oil-based products can take twenty-four to forty-eight hours to dry. Generally, water-based polyurethane takes approximately twenty hours to dry.

Oil-based polyurethane takes forty-eight hours to dry. Refer to the instructions on the product’s can to know the appropriate time the finish takes to dry. 

Is It Okay to Not Apply Finish on Workbench?

Do not finish it if you regard scratches and dings on your workbench top as a badge of honor. If you need your workbench to look stylish and modern, finish it with top-of-the-range products.

Please note that failure to finish a workbench will result in dents and marks. It all boils down to your personal preference.

FAQs

What is the best finish for pine workbench?

A drying oil finish is the best finish for a pine workbench. Drying oils are oils that harden upon exposure to air. They include linseed oil, tung oil, and walnut oil. These oils penetrate the wood surface and form a film that protects the pine workbench from water and moisture.

What is the best finish for plywood workbench?

The best finish for plywood workbench top is polyurethane varnish. This type of finish is durable and easy to apply, making it the perfect choice for protecting your Plywood workbench from wear and tear. In addition, sealed polyurethane workbench tops are protected from moisture, ensuring they last for years.

Also, find out the best way to polyurethane a table and the best finishes for table tops.

What is best finish for butcher block workbench?

Teak oil is a good finish for butcher block workbench because it is durable and protects the wood from moisture. It also has a nice smell and adds a bit of sheen to the wood. There are other finishes that can be used to finish butcher blocks, but teak oil is a good option. Now, find out how to apply teak oil to your outdoor furniture.

Should you put finish on a workbench?

It depends on your taste and style. If you don’t mind the scratches and dents, leave it unfinished. Nevertheless, finish it if you need to protect the bench from marks and gouges and prevent it from becoming slippery.

What should I put on my work bench to protect it?

It depends on what yo u use the bench for. Varnishes will make the surfaces slippery, and the tools will slide and fall. If you don’t need slick surfaces, apply polyurethane or oil finish.

What is a good surface for a workbench?

Unused scraps of laminate flooring can make an excellent workbench surface. Laminate is durable and washable. You can easily scrape off dried glue and paint. If you use small nails to secure your laminate, you can seamlessly pry it off and replace it.

Is MDF or plywood better for workbench top?

MDF is smoother, which makes moving heavy loads easier. Also, unlike plywood, it does not splinter. Plywood is ideal if you get messy with glue and other solvents. It’s inexpensive and straightforward to replace, and you can reuse the old piece for artifices.

Is plywood good for workbench top?

Plywood offers a smooth surface that will not bend or curve. Because it is dimensionally stable, the bench will not change from one use to another. Based on how you construct it, it can be as firm as you need it to handle as much weight as required.

Read also: Best height for workbench.

Workbench Top Finish Summary

If you need your workbench to be durable and serve you for years, investing in the best workbench finish is a wise decision.

The best workbench finish will protect your workbench top from scratches and keep it fantastic for ages. Our top choice finish is Rust-Oleum 250241 Diamond Urethane.

It works as marketed, is durable, affordable, and easy to maintain. It is also easy to apply, even if you are a complete novice. You can also apply a rejuvenating coat hassle-free.