07/09/2026
Think an exterior stain is enough? Think again. For a BBQ countertop, I wouldn't skip the top coat. It adds that final layer of protection to help protect against grease, spills, and the everyday wear that comes with outdoor use.
For this project, I used Varathane Diamond Wood Finish Outdoor because I wanted a durable, crystal clear finish that wouldn't hide the natural beauty of the wood.
Here's exactly how I applied it:
Prep is everything. Sand the wood to 220 grit, vacuum thoroughly, and remove every bit of dust. A clean surface makes all the difference.
Pro Tip: Before using a new synthetic brush with a water based topcoat, lightly dampen the bristles with clean water, shake out the excess, then dry them with a lint free cloth. This helps remove loose bristles and prepares the brush for a smoother finish.
Stir, don't shake. Shaking introduces air bubbles. Stir gently before and during application.
Apply thin coats. I applied three thin coats with a high quality synthetic brush, working with the grain and maintaining a wet edge. Avoid over brushing.
Allow to dry. I waited about 3 hours between each coat, then lightly sanded with 400 grit to remove any dust nibs before applying the next coat.
Save this post so you have the complete application process when you're ready to topcoat your own outdoor project.
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BBQCountertops