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Best Clear Finish For Wood (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to protect your wood furniture and enhance its natural beauty, you may want to consider a clear finish for wood. Clear finishes come in different types and can provide different levels of protection and enhancement, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

Before buying a clear finish for wood, you should consider factors such as the type and condition of the wood, the level of protection you need, the desired look and durability, and the application method. For example, some clear finishes are best for interior wood, while others are more suitable for exterior wood that will be exposed to weather and UV radiation. Some finishes are also more forgiving in terms of application, while others require more skill and precision.

If you’re not sure which clear finish for wood to choose, you may want to ask yourself some questions, such as: What is the main purpose of the wood surface (e.g., decorative, functional, etc.)? How much wear and tear is expected? Will the wood be exposed to moisture, sunlight, or chemicals? What is the desired color and sheen level? Do you prefer a spray, brush or wipe-on application? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and make a more informed decision.

Whether you want to protect a table, a floor, a cabinet, or any other wooden surface, choosing the right clear finish can make a significant difference in its appearance, durability, and longevity. By doing some research and considering your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect clear finish for your wood project.

10 Best Clear Finish For Wood

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for adding a natural and modern industrial touch to a living room with subtle imperfections and black metal accents.
2
The product is ideal for finishing and protecting wooden surfaces with a thin, clear coat.
3
The product is ideal for adding a semi-gloss finish to wood surfaces using a brush.
4
This product is ideal for providing a clear protective finish on wood surfaces, and can be applied with a brush.
5
It is ideal for use as a clear protective coating on interior wood surfaces.
6
The product is ideal for creating durable, clear coatings on wood tables, concrete countertops, orgone, and epoxy resin molds.
7
Ideal for illuminating kitchen islands with a rustic and modern style using glass, wood, and black finishing.
8
The product is ideal for giving a clear, satin finish to wooden surfaces when applied with a brush.
9
Ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of exterior wood surfaces from weathering and fading.
10
This product is ideal for adding a rustic industrial farmhouse look to the kitchen island or dining room.
Ideal for adding a natural and modern industrial touch to a living room with subtle imperfections and black metal accents.
The product is ideal for finishing and protecting wooden surfaces with a thin, clear coat.
The product is ideal for adding a semi-gloss finish to wood surfaces using a brush.
This product is ideal for providing a clear protective finish on wood surfaces, and can be applied with a brush.
It is ideal for use as a clear protective coating on interior wood surfaces.
The product is ideal for creating durable, clear coatings on wood tables, concrete countertops, orgone, and epoxy resin molds.
Ideal for illuminating kitchen islands with a rustic and modern style using glass, wood, and black finishing.
The product is ideal for giving a clear, satin finish to wooden surfaces when applied with a brush.
Ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of exterior wood surfaces from weathering and fading.
This product is ideal for adding a rustic industrial farmhouse look to the kitchen island or dining room.

1. Natural Edge Media Console – Alaterre Furniture

Add a touch of natural beauty to your living room with the Alatrere Furniture Alpine Natural Wood Media Console Table. This unique piece features a one-of-a-kind live edge shape that is sure to stand out in any space. As each piece is different, you can be sure that you are getting a truly unique showpiece for your home.

Crafted from 100% natural acacia wood, this console table is built to last. The black metal accents add an industrial modern feel, while the clear natural finish highlights the wood's unique characteristics. Knots and cracks are common in natural wood, and these subtle imperfections only add to the table's charm, making each piece a work of art.

Measuring x inches, this media console table is the perfect size for any living room. It also comes with a set of four nylon floor protectors, ensuring that your floors stay scratch-free. The easy-to-clean natural finish requires minimal maintenance, making it a hassle-free addition to your home.

Overall, the Alatrere Furniture Alpine Natural Wood Media Console Table is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern design. It is sure to become the focal point of any living room and will pair perfectly with any decor style.

Pros

  • Unique, one-of-a-kind live edge shape adds natural beauty to any living room
  • Crafted from 100% natural acacia wood for lasting durability
  • Subtle imperfections, such as knots and cracks, make each piece a work of art
  • Clear natural finish enhances the wood's unique characteristics
  • Comes with a set of four nylon floor protectors to prevent scratches
  • Easy-to-clean natural finish requires minimal maintenance

2. Osmo Wood Wax Finish Extra Thin, 1101 Clear – .750 Liter

This wood finish is specially designed for exotic and oily wood species as well as dark hardwoods. It is made from natural, rapidly renewable resources, making it environmentally friendly. The microporous structure of the finish ensures that it won't crack, peel, flake, or blister, making it durable and long-lasting. Moreover, it is resistant to wine, beer, cola, tea, fruit juice, milk, and water, ensuring that your furniture stays protected against stains and spills. It is easy to clean and maintain, and spot repairable, making it a great choice for busy households.

Pros

  • Made from natural, rapidly renewable resources
  • Microporous – won’t crack, peel, flake, or blister
  • Resistant to wine, beer, cola, tea, fruit juice, milk, and water
  • Easy cleaning and maintenance – spot repairable

3. 1 Gal Deft Dft011 Clear Clear Wood Finish Brushing Lacquer Semi-Gloss

The Semi-Gloss Wood Finish is a top-quality product that provides a crystal-clear finish to your interior wood furniture. This finish dries quickly, in just 30 minutes, ensuring that your furniture is ready for use in no time. The finish is also safe for babies, making it a great choice for families with young children. The package dimensions are 6.3" L x 6.3" W x 7.2" H, making it easy to store and use as needed.

With this Semi-Gloss Wood Finish, you can achieve a professional-looking finish on your furniture without the need for professional help. The finish is easy to apply and provides excellent coverage, ensuring that you get the desired results every time. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, this finish is an excellent addition to your toolkit.

The Semi-Gloss Wood Finish is also highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your furniture looks great for years to come. So if you want to give your interior wood furniture a beautiful, long-lasting finish, this is the product for you.

Pros

  • Dries crystal clear in just 30 minutes
  • Safe for babies
  • Easy to apply
  • Provides excellent coverage
  • Highly durable and resistant to wear and tear

4. Deft 01701 Interior Lacquer, 1g Clear Wood Finish Brushing Lacquer

The Dries Crystal Clear in 30 Minutes is a top-quality product that provides a crystal clear finish to any surface in just 30 minutes. This product is designed to ensure that the surface remains non-yellowing over time, making it an excellent choice for long-term usage. The product package dimensions are 7.5 inches in length, 7.0 inches in width, and 7.75 inches in height, while the weight of the package is 16.5 lbs. Dries Crystal Clear in 30 Minutes is a perfect solution for those who want to achieve a professional finish for their DIY projects or industrial applications.

This product is easy to use, and it dries quickly, which means that you don't have to wait for hours to apply the next coat. The non-yellowing feature ensures that the surface remains clear and transparent, while the crystal clear finish adds a touch of elegance to any surface. The product is perfect for use on wood, metal, glass, ceramic, and other surfaces, making it a versatile solution for all your needs.

Overall, Dries Crystal Clear in 30 Minutes is an excellent product that offers numerous benefits. It dries quickly, provides a crystal clear finish, and is non-yellowing, making it a perfect solution for all your DIY and industrial needs.

Pros

  • Dries quickly in just 30 minutes
  • Non-yellowing, ensuring a clear surface over time
  • Easy to use
  • Crystal clear finish adds elegance to any surface
  • Versatile solution for use on various surfaces

5. Deft 011-01 Interior Clear Wood Finish Gloss Brushing Lacquer, 1 Gallon (Pack Of 4)

This 1 gallon clear sealant and finisher is perfect for those who want a crystal clear finish that will not yellow or darken over time. It is ideal for use on various surfaces to seal and finish them, providing long-lasting protection. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, it also seals door edges against moisture to prevent warping, making it a practical choice for homeowners.

This sealant and finisher is easy to apply and dries quickly, allowing for a hassle-free application process. It is also resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring that the surface remains pristine for a long time. The clear finish enhances the natural beauty of the surface, making it perfect for use on furniture, cabinets, and other wooden surfaces.

It is a versatile product that can be used on various surfaces, including bare or stained wood, painted surfaces, and ceramics, among others. The 1-gallon size is perfect for larger projects, ensuring that you have enough product to complete your project without running out.

Pros

  • Provides a crystal clear finish that does not yellow or darken over time
  • Seals and finishes various surfaces, providing long-lasting protection
  • Prevents warping of door edges by sealing them against moisture
  • Easy to apply and dries quickly, ensuring a hassle-free application process
  • Resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring that the surface remains pristine
  • Perfect for use on furniture, cabinets, and other wooden surfaces
  • Versatile product that can be used on various surfaces, including bare or stained wood, painted surfaces, and ceramics
  • 1-gallon size is perfect for larger projects

6. Superclear Epoxy Resin Pourable Kit – 1 Gallon

Create a stunning, high gloss finish on any surface with the two-part, self-leveling Superclear Table Top Epoxy Resin. Designed specifically for food preparation and high traffic areas, this epoxy resin is food grade safe and perfect for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Its resistance to UV light ensures that the clear resin epoxy maintains its pristine appearance for years to come, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of projects, including coffee tables, end tables, and more.

Superclear Table Top Epoxy Resin is a professional-grade quality epoxy resin trusted by experts and DIYers alike. Its formula is easy to mix and apply, and eliminates air bubbles and inconsistencies for a smooth, even finish. Whether you are flood coating a table or sealing a slab of wood, you can count on Superclear Epoxy. The clear resin epoxy is versatile and allows you to embed objects and create depth and dimension, making it ideal for creating one-of-a-kind pieces that are truly unique.

With over 60 years of experience in the industry, Superclear is a family-owned business and manufacturer of the 100% made in the USA product. This ensures that they have full control over their quality materials and products, allowing them to deliver the best to their customers. One gallon of their Table Top Epoxy Resin will cover approximately 12 square feet with a 1/8" thick coating, making it an economical choice for larger projects.

Pros

  • Creates a stunning, high gloss finish on any surface
  • Food grade safe and perfect for kitchen and bathroom countertops
  • Resistant to UV light, ensuring that it maintains its pristine appearance for years to come
  • Easy to mix and apply, eliminating air bubbles and inconsistencies for a smooth, even finish
  • Versatile and allows you to embed objects and create depth and dimension, making it ideal for creating one-of-a-kind pieces
  • Made in the USA with full control over quality materials and products

7. Farmhouse 5-Light Pendant With Clear Glass".

The Farmhouse Style Island Light is a beautiful pendant light that features a metal frame with a clear glass shade in a wood and black finish. The light offers an industrial farmhouse look that adds style and interest to any home. It is perfect for brightening up indoor areas like the kitchen, dining room, living room, cafe, restaurant or library.

This linear pendant light is easy to install and comes with all the necessary assembly for quick and simple installation. It is ETL Listed with a 1-year warranty, and it is only suitable for flat ceilings.

The Farmhouse Style Island Light is hard-wired and requires 5 x E26 base 60W bulbs, which can be incandescent, LED, or CFL. Bulbs are sold separately, but you can find A19 6W LED Filament Bulb with ASIN B07TWDS7T8 and ST58 60W Incandescent Light Bulb with ASIN B07TS635YF.

This pendant light measures 32.4 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 8 inches in height. The ceiling canopy measures 8.9 inches in length and 4.7 inches in width. It also comes with two 42-inch adjustable rods, each of which includes one 6-inch and three 12-inch rods.

Pros

  • Features a beautiful metal frame with a clear glass shade in a wood and black finish that offers an industrial farmhouse look
  • Easy to install and comes with all the necessary assembly for quick and simple installation
  • ETL Listed with a 1-year warranty
  • Suitable for brightening up indoor areas like the kitchen, dining room, living room, cafe, restaurant or library
  • Comes with two 42-inch adjustable rods that allow you to adjust the height to your liking

Cons

  • – Bulbs are sold separately

8. 1 Qt Deft Dft017 Clear Clear Wood Finish Brushing Lacquer Satin

Achieve professional-grade results with ease using this crystal clear lacquer. The non-yellowing formula provides a long-lasting seal and finish for interior wood furniture, cabinets, paneling, bar tops, and crafts. The satin finish adds a subtle, elegant touch to any surface. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, this lacquer is easy to apply and provides a flawless finish every time.

Protect your wood surfaces from scratches, scuffs, and other types of damage with this durable lacquer. The crystal clear formula ensures that the natural beauty of your wood shines through, while the satin finish provides a subtle sheen that enhances the overall look of the surface. Whether you're working on a large project or a small one, this lacquer is the perfect finishing touch.

This lacquer is ideal for use on a variety of surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, paneling, bar tops, and crafts. It dries quickly and is easy to clean up with just soap and water. Plus, the non-yellowing formula ensures that your surfaces will stay looking great for years to come.

Pros

  • Easy to apply
  • Professional-grade results
  • Non-yellowing formula
  • Durable protection against scratches and scuffs
  • Satin finish adds a subtle, elegant touch
  • Ideal for use on a variety of surfaces
  • Quick-drying formula
  • Easy to clean up with soap and water

9. 5 Gal Flood Fld521 Redwood Cwf-Uv Exterior Clear Wood Finish

Protect your walls and furniture from moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage with this high-quality acrylic oil emulsion formula. The translucent penetrating formula ensures that the protective layer is not visible to the naked eye, preserving the natural beauty of your surfaces. It is easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a practical choice for households with kids and pets. This product is proudly made in the United States and has been formulated to meet the highest quality standards.

Whether you are looking to protect your bathroom walls, kitchen cabinets, or outdoor furniture, this acrylic oil emulsion formula is the perfect choice. The long-lasting protection it provides ensures that your surfaces will look great for years to come. Additionally, the formula is easy to apply, dries quickly, and does not emit any unpleasant odors.

Overall, this product is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality protective coating that is both durable and easy to use. With its excellent performance and easy cleanup, it is sure to exceed your expectations.

Pros

  • Translucent penetrating formula preserves natural beauty of surfaces
  • Protects against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage
  • Soap and water cleanup
  • Easy to apply and dries quickly
  • Made in the United States

10. Rustic Linear Island Chandelier For Farmhouse Kitchen.

Introducing the McBride Rustic Farmhouse Linear Chandelier by Franklin Iron Works, a perfect fit for your home's rustic interior design. The chandelier measures 40 inches in width, 23 inches in depth, and 18.25 inches in height. It comes with two 12-inch square tubes, two 5-foot long chains, and 12 feet of wire, making it easy to install and adjust to your desired height. The chandelier is also sloped ceiling adaptable, allowing you to install it on any type of ceiling.

The rectangular shape of the McBride chandelier is perfect for lighting up your kitchen island or long dining table. The chandelier's clear glass allows the six 60-watt standard medium base Type-A Edison filament bulbs to shine through, providing ample lighting for your space. The package comes with six 60 watt bulbs, which is the maximum wattage that the chandelier can accommodate.

The McBride Rustic Farmhouse Linear Chandelier is made of durable metal construction and features a dual-tone black and wood grain finish. The combination of black and wood grain finish adds a touch of rustic charm to your living space. The chandelier weighs 25 pounds, and the glass shades measure 6.5 inches in height and 4 inches in width each. The canopy measures 20 inches in width, 4.5 inches in depth, and 3 inches in height.

Upgrade your home with the McBride Rustic Farmhouse Linear Chandelier by Franklin Iron Works. This chandelier is an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of rustic charm to their living spaces while providing ample lighting. Order yours today and enjoy the warm ambiance it brings to your home.

Pros

  • Ideal for kitchen island lighting or over long tables
  • Comes with six 60 watt standard-medium base Type-A Edison filament bulbs
  • Clear glass allows bulbs to be seen
  • Sloped ceiling adaptable
  • Dual-tone black and wood grain finish adds rustic charm to your living space

Cons

  • – Maximum 60 watt bulbs

Best Clear Finish For Wood FAQs

Can I use a clear finish on outdoor wood surfaces?

Yes, you can use a clear finish on outdoor wood surfaces. However, it is essential to choose the right type of clear finish that can withstand the outdoor elements like rain, snow, and sunlight. Some clear finishes are specially formulated for outdoor wood surfaces and provide excellent protection against water, UV rays, and mildew. These finishes are typically oil-based and contain additives like ultraviolet light absorbers and fungicides that help protect the wood from damage. It is also essential to prepare the wood surface properly before applying the clear finish. This includes cleaning the wood surface thoroughly and sanding it to create a smooth and even surface. Additionally, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying the clear finish to ensure proper coverage and protection. In summary, yes, you can use a clear finish on outdoor wood surfaces, but it is crucial to choose the right type of finish and prepare the wood surface properly to ensure maximum protection and longevity.

How do I apply a clear finish to wood?

Applying a clear finish to wood is a great way to protect it from damage and give it a beautiful shine. Here are the steps to follow for applying a clear finish to wood:

1. Sand the wood: Sand the wood with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or blemishes.

2. Clean the wood: Use a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface of the wood.

3. Apply the finish: Apply the clear finish to the wood using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of finish you are using.

4. Allow the finish to dry: Allow the finish to dry completely before applying a second coat, if desired.

5. Sand between coats: If you are applying more than one coat of finish, sand the surface lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper between coats.

6. Buff the surface: Once the final coat of finish is dry, use a soft cloth to buff the surface of the wood to a shine.

By following these steps, you can achieve a beautiful, durable finish on your wood project.

How do I remove a clear finish from wood?

Removing a clear finish from wood can be a daunting task, but it is necessary if you want to refinish or paint the wood. There are several methods you can use to remove the clear finish, depending on the type of finish and the tools you have available.

One method is to use a chemical stripper, which softens the finish and makes it easy to scrape off. You can apply the stripper with a brush, let it sit for the recommended time, and then scrape it off with a scraper or putty knife. Make sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using chemical strippers.

Another method is to use sandpaper or a sanding machine to sand off the clear finish. This method requires more effort and may take longer, but it is effective for removing stubborn finishes.

Whichever method you choose, make sure to thoroughly clean the wood surface after removing the finish to prepare it for refinishing or painting.

How long does a clear finish last on wood?

The durability of a clear finish on wood largely depends on various factors such as the type of finish used, the level of exposure to the elements, and the level of wear and tear it experiences. Generally, clear finishes can last anywhere from a few months to several years.

For instance, a clear water-based finish can last for about two to three years, while an oil-based finish can last for up to five years. However, if the wood is exposed to harsh weather conditions such as excessive sunlight and moisture, the finish may need to be reapplied sooner.

Additionally, the frequency of use and level of maintenance can also affect the lifespan of the clear finish. Regular maintenance such as cleaning and polishing can help to extend the life of the finish.

In summary, the durability of a clear finish on wood varies and can last for a few months to several years depending on the type of finish, level of exposure to the elements, and level of maintenance.

What is the best type of clear finish for wood?

When it comes to choosing the best type of clear finish for wood, there are several factors that need to be considered. The type of finish you choose will depend on the intended use of the piece of wood, the type of wood, and the desired level of protection and durability.

There are several types of clear finishes available, including lacquer, varnish, shellac, and polyurethane. Lacquer is a fast-drying, durable finish that provides a high-gloss finish. Varnish is a more traditional finish that is known for its durability and resistance to water and heat.

Shellac is a natural finish that provides a warm, amber tone to the wood. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, but it is not as durable as other finishes. Polyurethane is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains. It is available in both oil-based and water-based formulas.

Ultimately, the best type of clear finish for wood will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as durability, ease of application, and the desired appearance when choosing a clear finish for your wood project.

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