Bar Top Finish Ideas

Choosing the right finish for a bar top involves a mix of aesthetics, durability, and practicality. The finish should protect the surface while enhancing the natural beauty of the material. There are several options to consider, each with specific characteristics that might suit different needs and styles.

Wood Bar Tops

Wood is a classic choice for bar tops. Its warm and inviting appearance makes it popular in both home and commercial settings. Different finishes can drastically alter the feel and function of a wood bar top.

Oil Finishes

Oil finishes penetrate the wood, highlighting grain patterns. They are easy to apply and maintain. For bar tops, oil finishes like tung oil or linseed oil can provide a rich, natural look. Periodic reapplication is required to maintain the finish.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane offers a tough, water-resistant barrier over wood. It’s available in oil- and water-based forms. Oil-based polyurethane gives a slightly amber hue, enhancing depth, while water-based options are clear. This finish protects well against spills and frequent use.

Shellac

Shellac, derived from natural resins, dries quickly and offers a glossy finish. It’s not as durable as polyurethane against liquids, so it works best in environments where spills are minimal. Shellac is easy to repair, making it a choice for those who value aesthetic over utility.

Metal Bar Tops

Metal bar tops can bring a sleek, modern, or industrial vibe to a setting. Different metals require different finish types to protect against oxidation and wear.

Clear Coat

A clear coat protects metals like steel or aluminum without altering the color. It can be sprayed or brushed on, providing a barrier against moisture and air, essential to prevent rust or tarnish.

Wax Finish

Wax creates a soft sheen on metal surfaces. It’s easy to apply and removable. While not as durable as chemical finishes, wax is good for adding a scratch-resistant layer with a touchable feel. A regular maintenance regime can keep the surface in optimal condition.

Patina

Patinas develop naturally over time or can be applied using chemicals. This finish gives metals an aged look, enhancing copper or bronze bar tops with unique hues and textures. A sealant is necessary to maintain the patina effect and protect it from wear.

Concrete Bar Tops

Concrete bar tops are durable and customisable. They can be stained, polished, or left raw, depending on the desired look.

Epoxy Coating

Epoxy coatings offer a glossy, protective layer for concrete. It’s durable and water-resistant. Useful for creating seamless surfaces, epoxy can be mixed with pigments for unique designs.

Acrylic Sealer

An acrylic sealer is another option for concrete. It provides a protective layer while maintaining a natural, matte finish. Acrylic sealer applications are straightforward, giving concrete a clean and consistent appearance. It’s ideal for environments wanting a subdued aesthetic.

Staining

Concrete stains penetrate the surface, adding vibrant color. This finish allows customisation, mimicking natural stones or creating bold colours. Stains can be sealed with a protective topcoat to ensure longevity and resistance to scratches or spills.

Stone Bar Tops

Stone offers a timeless, elegant look. Each type of stone has unique properties influencing the choice of finishes.

Impregnating Sealers

Impregnating sealers penetrate below the stone’s surface. They don’t alter appearance but enhance durability. They protect against water and oil, crucial for preventing stains on granite or marble.

Polishing

Polishing stone surfaces brings a reflective shine. It enhances the inherent colors and patterns of stones like granite, marble, and quartz. Regular polishing helps in maintaining aesthetic appeal and ease of cleaning.

Honed Finish

A honed finish removes the polished shine from stones, providing a matte appearance. Ideal for those desiring a less reflective surface while still seeing the natural beauty of marble or travertine. It is less slippery than polished stone, adding safety where liquids are present.

Resin Bar Tops

Resin finishes are versatile, often used on wood and concrete. They allow creative designs and durable surfaces. Bar tops finished with resin can be high-gloss and clear or mixed with pigments.

Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is popular for bar tops requiring a thick, glossy seal. It’s used for embedding items like coins or bottle caps within the surface. Durable and resistant to spills, it’s beneficial for both aesthetics and functionality.

Polyester Resin

Similar to epoxy, polyester resin provides a strong, polished finish. This option cures faster and can be more cost-effective. It’s less flexible than epoxy, so it’s better suited for decorations rather than structural use.

Glass Bar Tops

Glass bar tops offer modern looks and are easy to clean. They provide a variety of finish options that enhance their appearance.

Frosted Finish

Frosted glass is created by sandblasting or acid etching. It diffuses light and reduces glare, which creates privacy and reduces visible smudges. Frosting adds texture while retaining a sleek design.

Backpainting

Glass can be backpainted to add color and depth, making it a centerpiece. This process infuses colors onto the glass’ back, offering scratch-resistance and unique coloration. It’s used frequently in contemporary designs.

Conclusion

Selecting a finish for a bar top depends largely on the setting and use. Each material and finish combination offers distinct advantages. Whether opting for the warmth of wood, the industrial cool of metal, or the timeless elegance of stone, there’s a finish to match any vision.