Home Garden

How to Make Interior Wood Waterproof

Wood is used as decoration for its warmth and rustic feel. Some wood does not need waterproofing, such as desks or dressers that never come in contact with water. Wood countertops, dining room tables and hardwood floors, however, need protection against water to prevent damage to the wood finish, prevent swelling of the wood, as well as prevent extensive rot. Sealing wood takes little time to accomplish (depending on the size of the wood piece), and will often protect the wood for several years.

Things You'll Need

  • Mineral oil
  • Wet sandpaper
  • Clear sealer
  • Paint stirrer
  • Paint tray
  • Foam brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe down the wood surface with a grease-cutting cleaner and allow the wood to dry before working on it.

    • 2

      Apply mineral oil to wood surfaces where food will be prepared. Rub the oil into the wood using a piece of dry/wet sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper with the grain to prevent damaging the wood's appearance.

    • 3

      Stir clear sealer and pour out a portion into a paint tray.

    • 4

      Dip a foam brush into the sealer. Apply the sealer to the wood surface in long strokes, painting with the wood grain. Paint the entire surface and allow to dry.

    • 5

      Dip a piece of sandpaper into water and sand the surface gently, going with the grain, to rough up the sealer. Allow the sealer to dry.

    • 6

      Apply two more coats of sealer, sanding in between. Do not sand after the last coat.