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Michigan Maple Block Query

I am considering a Michigan Maple Block AJA02015 audio platform/cutting board, 18" x 18" x 3 1/2", to replace a shelf in my audio rack for supporting a DAC. The thickness also ideally raises the height of the DAC in the rack. My concern is that it is unsealed maple. Preferably, I would like it black or, minimally, sealed in some way, because the shade of the maple is something I can live with. I am looking for suggestions regarding this. Should I be concerned if left unsealed for this application or not? Thanks in advance.
usarrn
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
Mine has worked fine for 6 months or so and I am leaving it untreated,. Why not use a sealant or coating if you are worried.
theo's avatar
theo
2,690 posts
 
If you are in a humid cllimate add some kind of oil. If you really want a Black finish I would use a jacobean or ebony oil.
photon46
1,086 posts
 
The block you're looking at is made from end grain blocks, so a block that thick isn't going to warp at all. Maple is dense & it's difficult to stain evenly. It's notorious for being hard to finish. I'd doubt an ebony oil would give satisfactory results. I've spent quite a bit of time trying various translucent black finishes over tiger maple and had the greatest success by shooting alcohol based dye finishes with a spray gun. It's possible that a piece that small could be finished semi-ok with a gel based black stain.
theo's avatar
theo
2,690 posts
 
Photon is right. I didn't realize it was endgrain. I would just seal it with tungoil and leave it natural. Or better yet a good coat of wax will yeild fast easy results.
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