Refinishing Cabin Table Tops?

[Chick]

I am intertested in refinishing the cabin table tops in my 2000 Catalina 36 Mk II. I am not a woodworker and was hoping someone could share some insight with me regarding what type wood it is, the factcory finish (e.g. varnish vs. polyeurothane, satin vs semi-gloss, etc.). Also, lessons learned would be helpful regarding the process itself as well as the products.

 

[Dick McKee]

I do quite a bit of woodworking and refinished ours on our 470 with gloss Minwax Polyurethane. Sand the table completly. Fill any small dings with drops of polyurethane. Allow to dry. Block sand the spots. If there is still a depression re fill and sand. When all the dings are gone coat with 3 or 4 coats of polyurethane, lite sanding with 400 grit sandpaper between coats. I allow it to dry 24 hrs between coats. If you have the room rig the table top so you can hang it upside down immediatly after you finish a coat it will dry dust free. BTW if you want a real wow factor do your teak and holly floorboards. You will get constant compliments.

 

[Pat T]

I used Target Coatings..

...per Catalina on my 1995, specifically it was Oxford Ultima Varnish. It is a water based product and easy to use - dries quick, no or little fumes. I used a gloss on some bulkhead work in my aft cabin but I think they used a satin finish on tabletops and floorboards. I am planning on doing the floorboards this winter. Target had a website and I bought the product directly from them.

 

[Chick]

Thanks for the background and recommendations. Especailly the advice to reduce/avoid dust on the surface areas.

 

[Chick]

Re: I used Target Coatings..

I like a satin finish and appreciate your perspective and information regarding the source. Also, I really like the notion of a water based product.