How to protect the surface of a coffee table

Jo Anne Knight
by Jo Anne Knight
I bought a used, solid wood coffee table where my granddaughter and I play games. It is become lightly scratched. What is the easiest method for protecting the top from more use?
  3 answers
  • CAmom CAmom on Jul 26, 2015
    You could get a piece of tempered glass to cover it if it's a regularly used /valuable piece, but for a simple fix, you could get a heavy plastic tablecloth, and use draped, or if you don't want that look, cut to size on the top. http://www.amazon.com/Clear-Heavy-Duty-Plastic-Tablecloth/dp/B00FLXFZP6
    • Ruidoso Ruidoso on Jul 26, 2015
      @CAmom I agree with CA mom. Also, if you use glass, you can put pictures underneath it and change them as desired. That way, every time you eat, you can see pics of your loved ones.....
  • Bob Bob on Jul 26, 2015
    Several companies make a self leveling, water-based urethane finish that is like gold. 2 coats of this stuff and it will be impervious to liquids, scratches and (although I have not tested it) probably bullets. I did my kitchen table about 5 or 6 years ago and it is still like new.
    • Jo Anne Knight Jo Anne Knight on Jul 28, 2015
      @Bob Thanks! I was thinking of a urethane finish but was afraid I would have to sand the surface.
  • Bob Bob on Jul 28, 2015
    This stuff is idiot proof. self leveling with the only sanding to roughen up the surface. follow the instructions and you will do fine