Resealing a Table Top

Bring the table to a well-ventilated area. If possible, unscrew the tabletop from the base or legs. Otherwise, wrap the base or legs in plastic to protect them against drips and spills. Secure the plastic with painter's tape.

Sand the tabletop down with medium-grade sandpaper. This will strip the original finish away. You may do this by hand or with a powered orbital sander. Sand the table a second time with fine grade sandpaper to create a smooth, even surface.

Wipe the tabletop down with a damp cloth. Mix the wood stain thoroughly with a paint stirrer. Spread the stain with the grain of the wood using a roller, paintbrush or clean cloth.

Allow the stain to soak into the wood for about 30 seconds and wipe the wood with the grain using a dry cloth. If the cloth becomes saturated, use a fresh cloth. Let the stain dry completely.

Seal the tabletop with polyurethane. Stir the polyurethane slowly and carefully. Spread it over the surface of the table with a foam or lamb's wool applicator. Allow the polyurethane to dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer. This is typically between six and eight hours, but this varies by product.

Roughen the surface of the polyurethane with very fine grade sandpaper. Wipe the dust away, then apply another coat of polyurethane. Apply three or four coats of polyurethane using this method.