Finishing new wood stand

[kdm]

Hi everyone, I am still working on setting up my first saltwater tank. Right now, I have my stand that I got from glasscages. It is unfinished and I plan to stain it. I have very little experience with woodwork and am looking for the best way to finish this stand and seal it to make it as water resistant as possible. My personality is such that I want to do everything the right way the first time and sometimes that slows down my ability to get things done because I get bogged down in researching things and never actually accomplish anything haha. What kind of products should I be looking at to help me finish this stand and do you have any tips or things I should keep in mind while doing this. Thanks!

 

[14 foot reef]

i would reach out to a local " CUSTOM " cabinet company and look for guidance from them.

No a builder grade hack, but a custom cabinet and furniture maker.

 

[javajaws]

Do you know what wood the stand is made of? Is it some sort of plywood or solid wood? I've had good luck finishing the inside of my in-wall cabinet with gloss spar urethane. I have the outside finished with a more furniture quality finish - in my case lacquer.

 

[TX_REEF]

use whichever stain you wish, home depot has plenty of options. Just apply with a clean cotton rag and then wipe off excess. Once it dries for sufficient time according to the product instructions, I recommend you use spar varnish to finish it. It is a marine grade clearcoat. I've finished a few wooden bartops like this.

Spar varnish, use oil based for longevity: https://amzn.to/4bIxmME

 

[BeanAnimal]

Finishing as much art an trial and error as anything else.
You did not mention if you want paint or stain or what type of wood it is.

How are your carpentry and finishing skills? There is no use putting hours and money into a finish on 2x4s and plywood. Likewise if you built a fine piece of cabinetry then you don't likely want to paint it with a brush.

Have you ever used an HVLP or similar spray gun and/or do you have access?

The more information that you can provide, the better.