Hi, and welcome to Big B’s Handcrafted Furniture. This section is here to guide you through how to care for your new table so it lasts 10+ years. At this time, the primary finish I use is Rubio Monocoat, with the option to add N3 Nano Scratch Resistant Topcoat for even more protection. These are the only finishes I currently recommend, and they’re the ones I’ve found to perform best in real homes.

My furniture is considered high end, and I hold it to that standard. That’s why I use a hardwax oil finish instead of the polyurethane coatings found on most mass produced tables.

Polyurethane creates a plastic like layer that sits on top of the wood. While it can look shiny and durable at first, once it scratches, chips, or wears through, the entire surface usually has to be sanded down and refinished.

With a hardwax oil finish:

• The wood itself is protected and allowed to breathe.
  
  
• You still feel the natural warmth and texture of the hardwood, instead of a layer of plastic on top.
  
  
• Scratches, water rings, or wear marks can be repaired or refreshed in small areas without stripping the entire table.
  
  

That’s the difference between a table you replace and a table you keep for decades. With the right maintenance, Rubio Monocoat stays beautiful for longer, while polyurethane often shows its age after years of use.

When paired with N3 Nano, the durability and protection are taken to an even higher level making maintenance easier and extending the lifespan of your table even further.

Rubio Monocoat is a plant based, all natural hardwax oil that bonds at a molecular level with the wood fibers. This gives your table a natural look and feel while offering excellent protection against daily use.

Maintenance Tips:

• Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining or water rings.
  
  
• Use coasters and trivets to avoid placing hot or wet items directly on the surface.
  
  
• Avoid dragging sharp or heavy objects across the tabletop.
  
  
• Clean with a slightly damp cloth. Rubio Monocoat also offers special cleaners made specifically for their finish if your table is not protected with N3 Nano.
  
  
• Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
  
  

Over time, your table may develop small wear spots. Rubio is very easy to refresh  a light reapplication of oil blends seamlessly with the existing finish. You can choose to do this yourself with my guidance if you’re not local, or, if you are nearby, I also offer touch up services to keep your table looking fresh after a few years.

For those who want additional protection, I also offer N3 Nano as an add on finish. This ceramic based protective coat increases scratch resistance and adds water repellency, making maintenance easier and extending the life of your table’s finish.

Maintenance Tips:

• Even with N3 Nano, I still recommend using coasters and trivets to protect your investment.
  
  
• Clean with a microfiber cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
  
  

If your table eventually shows signs of wear, I can professionally refresh the N3 Nano finish for you. Unlike Rubio, this is not a product you can reapply yourself, it requires professional application.

Every table I build starts with the wood itself. I personally hand pick every single board or slab, making sure the quality, grain, and character are top tier before it becomes part of your piece. All of my lumber is sourced from trusted suppliers here in Michigan and throughout the United States. By choosing local sources, I’m able to support regional mills and guarantee that every table is made with authentic, responsibly harvested hardwoods.