Wood Cockpit Table (wood type and coating)

[wakerider09]

My boat currently has a factory fiberglass table in the cockpit, it's a little large and cramps the lounge seating in the aft of the cockpit. I am looking to build a new table top out of wood, smaller, so there is more room to sit and move about.

Looking to build this table top out of wood, does anyone have any recommendations on the type of wood to use, and how to coat the table top ie., polyurethane or some other product? I'd like the table to have a nice gloss rather than a dull look.

What is the best wood to use, and what is the best coating for gloss, which will hold up in the sun?

Thanks.

 

[shrew]

Teak is a common wood material. It is expensive, however it is extremely resistant to rot, which is why its used on decks, handrails, treads, etc. on the exterior of vessels. Teak does not need to be finished, however it will require regular cleaning and oiling in order to maintain that golden color, otherwise it greys. Any hardwood or combination of hardwoods can be used along with a marine varnish.

For marine varnishes Epifanes is extremely popular, though there are others on the market. Interlux also offers several lines of marine varnish. I would stay away for traditional polyurathanes and the stuff you'd find at the 'home stores'.

As for whether you want a high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin etc, they are all available. That is simply a matter of personal preference. You frequently see exterior hardwood is high gloss. It's typically why it's referred to 'Brightwork'. Even with a varnish, expect to be applying a new coat every now and then. The frequency depends on the amount of direct sunlight it is exposed too.

 

[JimS123]

Teak is fine for trim, decks, etc. but not for a table. Besides, you said gloss, and teak doesn't like "paint" well.

No question the most appropriate will be a 1" thick piece of mahogany. Stain then varnish. Epifanes, Pettit Captain's or any quality marine spar varnish. Your boat will then look like the classics.

 

[redneck joe]

If you want cheap I did this and so did a friend and at least for the four years we've had them they are holding up fine. If you want to last 100 years yeah go with the above.


Go to your HD or Lowes, buy a premade pine table top to the size you want. Stain to color of choice and use several coats of Helmsman. You will love the smaller table.

 

[agallant80]

Redneck Joe is right. It won't last as long as using hardwood like Oak or Mahogany but it will be cheep and quick. Also working with hardwood is rough on your tools. Try drilling some 8/4 oak with a 1/16 drill bit and you will see how fast it heats up and snaps. If you do make it yourself do you have tools to joint the planks and a biscuit cutter or some way to create mortise and tenons?