Using a DIY wood countertop from J. Aaron will help you create a high-end wood countertop, bathroom vanity top or kitchen island top for a fraction of the cost of a fully finished countertop.

What is a DIY wood countertop?

It’s the same custom countertop J. Aaron always makes with the same options available. All the cutouts (sink and/or range) are pre-cut and the faucet holes are pre-drilled. Your contribution of finish sanding, sealing and installation completes the project and puts a dramatic hand made wood countertop in your home.

See an example of a actual customer project.

The Finishing Process

Sanding

  1. The countertop comes flat and sanded to 80 grit. You’ll need to use a random orbit sander to finish sand the surface and sides.
  2. If you’ve ordered a top with a decorative edge profile you’ll need to hand sand it using 120 grit paper. Take it easy on this as you don’t want to alter the angles of the profile.

Sealing

  • For most tops we recommend the Monocoat 2C wood sealer. Very easy to apply, ok to cut on and offers excellent protection. Just follow the manufacturer's application instructions for a great finish. Be sure to seal both top and bottom. For this type of sealer take the sanding to 250 grit for the top and 120 for the sides.
  • For butcher block countertops designed for chopping on, finish with butcher block conditioner. Sanding to 250 grit will give you a smoother finish.
  • For a furniture look and feel you'll need to top coat with polyurethane. DO NOT USE LACQUER! Minwax wood stains work well if you'd like to alter the wood's natural color. For the top coat we recommend Zar brand polyurethane over Minwax polyurathane. Use their interior oil based products, not the exterior unless you're putting the countertop in an outdoor environment. Be sure to seal both top and bottom. If you are going to be staining the top sand up to 250. If you're just top coating it 150 grit is fine.