I need to build a desk / worktop / workbench for my retro computer projects. It will be used daily, so I want to have extreme durability to protect against wears, scuffs and scratches as much as possible. I have MDF cut to size, sealed and primed. What product type to consider for a top coat and why? Should I go with polyurethane, epoxy, latex, oil? Opaque black or white would be nice, but the priority is the durability. I'm UK based, I have experience with trade products of the brand with the big white dog.
Durable top coat for MDF worktop / workbench
mdfpaintpaintingvarnishing
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Best Answer
You'll get similar life from polyurethane and oil paint. It might be wise to use a satin or matte sheen to reduce the appearance of wear, which is the real issue. You can always recoat if actual wear-through or other damage occurs, but you probably don't want it looking distressed immediately.
Epoxy might give a little more hardness and thickness, but it's not as easy to work with and may not end up as smooth initially.
You might consider having a piece of glass cut to fit your desk. 1/4" standard glass is actually fairly tough, especially if you were to put a layer of felt or similar underneath as a shock absorber. I used a piece on my desk for many years without issue. A nylon work mat over the top would virtually guarantee durability. Acrylic or polycarbonate sheet could also work, but it'll scratch and scuff easily. The latter is virtually indestructible.
Of course, you could always lay plastic laminate on it. That's fairly easy to do and would be nice and tough. You just need a router with a bevel, ogee, or straight bit to finish the exposed edge.