Finishing a table top...

[pslamp32]

Quick question, do you guys/ gals put a seal and topcoat on the bottom of a coffee table top? Thanks!

 

[McRabbet]

Yes -- you need to seal it to insure that the wood does not warp due to moisture entering the wood unevenly. Add the finish, too.

Rob

 

[pslamp32]

Thanks. Can It be done after the top is finished so I dont have to flip back and forth? It's not attached yet.

 

[DavidF]

Thanks. Can It be done after the top is finished so I dont have to flip back and forth? It's not attached yet.

Yes, but don't leave it too long or move it from the environment it's in when you finish the top.

 

[Howard Acheson]

It depends on how the top is attached to the support and leg assembly. If the table has a surrounding skirt under the tabletop, finishing is not necessary to assist in warp prevention. The support mechanism will give it all the support necessary. However, if the support assembly is minimal like trestle table, then finishing the underside is desirable to equalize moisture penetration time.

My general rule is to stain it an put one coat of finish on it unless it fits into the second catagory above.