Epoxy coating for counter top?

[_Ryan_]

I just finished my first experience with epoxy, specifically West 105/207. It went so well and I am so impressed with it's durability and clarity and I was wondering about using epoxy for a clear counter top. My counter is birch and I was thinking about finishing it clear like my cabinets with Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane, but now I'm leaning towards epoxy to show off the wood. I know there are different varieties of epoxy specifically for tables, and I'm fairly sure they would be much cheaper than West system epoxy.

Has anyone used epoxy, or poly? Would the west epoxy work if I lay a a few coats down (I know I should not pour it)? Any contamination issues with regards to food? Heat resistance? Any other options I am missing for finishing it clear?

Thanks!
Ryan

[pmowers]

They make an epoxy specifically for bar and table tops.
http://www.aeromarineproducts.com/bar-top-epoxy.htm
I used to go to a bar that had a $100 bill in the top right in front of the cash register. It was hilarious watching people trying to pick it up with their change.

[scottinwv]

Epoxy will deteriorate in sunlight (UV) unless coated with UV blocking varnish. The galley of a teardrop would be exposed enough to cause it.

It is used for cedar strip kayaks and canoes. Brush or roll on a couple of coats to build thickness, then wetsand. It will look translucent instead of transparent until coated with the UV blocking varnish. 4 or 5 coats of varnish are recommended for full UV protection. The spar varnish from marine suppliers is much better than the ones carried by the big box stores. It builds thickness much faster and levels better. $35 for a quart, but once you use it, you'll not go back to the cheaper varnish.

It would provide more protection for the wood than just varnish alone.

Scott

[_Ryan_]

Interesting, the bar top epoxy costs as much as the West system, I didn't expect that! I was also thinking of using the Helmsman spar urethane in place of the epoxy but I am not sure of it's durability or heat resistance, in case of an occasional/accidental encounter with a knife or hot pan.