I have a wooden tiered shelf that I love for its natural color, and I want to make sure it doesn't get damaged by water since it's in my bathroom. I'm looking for a good varnish or sealant that will keep it safe from moisture. I live in Canada, so any specific products or brands that work well in humid conditions would be super helpful. Thanks!
3 Answers
Polyurethane is my go-to finish. It's durable and will protect against water as long as the wood is fully sealed. Just keep in mind that while it’s tough, it isn’t completely waterproof. So, if you think any water will be left sitting on the surface for long, you might want to reconsider or ensure it's wiped dry quickly.
You might want to try Varathane wood finishing products. They offer both oil and water-based sealants, with options for clear and tinted finishes. They're great for protecting wood, especially since some products are rated for high traffic areas, which means they'll hold up well in moisture-prone spaces like a bathroom.
There are plenty of options out there! Have you considered Danish oils? They offer a combination of varnish for the surface and penetrating oils that soak into the wood. Other good choices include tung oil and linseed oil, but note that these could get dirt in the pores since they're more on the renewable side. Satin varnishes are also a good bet for sealing and wear resistance!
Just a heads up, prolonged water exposure can still damage polyurethane over time. It works well for quick moisture, but for anything that traps water, it might not be the best choice.