Cornhole boards are more than just a game; they’re a source of outdoor entertainment and friendly competition. Whether you’ve crafted your own cornhole boards or purchased a raw plywood set, sealing them is a vital step to ensure durability, protect against the elements, and create a smooth playing surface. If you’re wondering how to seal cornhole boards properly, this guide will walk you through the entire process with clear, actionable advice.
Why Sealing Cornhole Boards is Important
Sealing your cornhole boards is about more than aesthetics. When left untreated, wood can absorb moisture, warp, and crack over time. A sealed board also ensures a smooth surface for the bags to glide across, giving both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Neglecting this step could result in damage to your boards and a less enjoyable gaming experience.
By properly sealing cornhole boards, you’ll be creating a water-resistant barrier and protecting their surface from scratches, stains, and UV damage. A well-sealed board will last for years, even with frequent use. Plus, with the proper sealing technique, you can enhance the vibrant colors and designs you’ve painted or applied to your boards.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
Before you start the sealing process, gather these materials and tools:
- Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
- An electric sander (optional but helpful)
- Tack cloth
- Wood putty (if necessary)
- Primer
- Paint (optional, if you want decorative boards)
- Polyurethane (for sealing)
- Foam or bristle brushes
- Drop cloth or tarp
- Painter’s tape (optional)
With these supplies on hand, you’ll be ready to move on to prepping and sealing your cornhole boards.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cornhole Boards
The first step in learning how to seal cornhole boards effectively is preparation. Starting with a well-prepped surface ensures a smooth and lasting finish.
Sand the Boards
Begin by sanding your cornhole boards to remove any rough edges, splinters, or imperfections. Start with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface, then switch to 220-grit sandpaper for finer detailing. If you’re using an electric sander, the process will be quicker, but manual sanding works just as well.
Pay extra attention to the corners and edges, as these areas are often rougher than the flat surface. After sanding, wipe down the boards using a tack cloth to remove all dust and debris.
Fill Any Holes or Imperfections
If there are holes, cracks, or knots in the wood, use wood putty to fill them. This step isn’t always necessary, but it’s important for achieving a professional-grade finish. Allow the putty to dry completely before sanding it down to match the surface of the board.
Prime the Surface
Applying a primer is optional, but it’s highly recommended if you are painting your cornhole boards with designs, logos, or solid colors. A primer ensures better paint adhesion and helps to create a smooth base.
If you plan to leave the wood in its natural state, you can skip this step and move straight to sealing. Just ensure the sanded surface is clean of debris.
Step 2: Choose the Right Sealer
Understanding how to seal cornhole boards involves choosing the right type of sealer. Polyurethane is the most popular choice because of its durability and ability to create a smooth, water-resistant finish. Both oil-based and water-based polyurethane will work, but each has its advantages:
- Oil-Based Polyurethane: Offers a warm, slightly amber tone and is highly durable. It takes longer to dry and may have a stronger odor during application.
- Water-Based Polyurethane: Dries faster, has a milder odor, and maintains the natural color of the wood. It’s a great option if you want a clear, non-yellowing finish.
Your choice will depend on your desired aesthetic and timeline. Oil-based polyurethane is better for durability, while water-based polyurethane is easier to work with and quicker to dry.
Step 3: Seal the Cornhole Boards
With your sealer selected, it’s time to get down to sealing. Follow these steps for the best results:
Apply the First Coat
Using a foam brush or a high-quality bristle brush, apply a thin, even coat of polyurethane to the surface of your cornhole boards. Work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid streaks or uneven marks. Avoid overloading the brush with sealer, as this can cause drips and bubbles.
Be patient and take your time to spread the sealer evenly across the board. If you taped off areas for any designs, carefully work up to the edges without crossing over the tape.
Allow to Dry
After applying the first coat, allow the polyurethane to dry completely. Depending on whether you’re using oil-based or water-based polyurethane, this could take anywhere from 2 to 24 hours. Read the instructions on the product label for specific drying times.
Sand Between Coats
Once the first coat is dry, lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper. This step helps remove any raised grain, bubbles, or imperfections from the first layer. After sanding, use a tack cloth to remove any residual dust.
Apply Additional Coats
Apply 2 to 3 more coats of polyurethane using the same technique. Sand between each coat for the smoothest finish. Remember that the more coats you apply, the more durable and glossy the surface will become.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once all coats of polyurethane have been applied and the boards have fully dried, inspect the finish for consistency. At this stage, your boards should have a smooth, shiny surface that’s ready for play.
If you want to add decals, logos, or designs, this is the time to do so. Apply the decals carefully and press them down firmly to prevent any air bubbles or lifting. After applying decals, you may want to apply a topcoat of polyurethane to seal them in place and protect them.
Maintenance Tips for Sealed Cornhole Boards
Once you’ve mastered how to seal cornhole boards, proper maintenance is key to extend their lifespan. Even the best-sealed boards need occasional care to stay in good shape:
- Wipe down the boards with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt or dust.
- Store the boards indoors or in a weatherproof cover when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear.
- Reapply a fresh coat of polyurethane every year or two, especially if the boards are frequently exposed to sunlight or rough play.
By following these maintenance tips, your cornhole boards will stay smooth and durable for years to come.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sealing cornhole boards is straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls that can sabotage your efforts. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Skipping the sanding process, which leads to rough and uneven finishes.
- Applying thick, uneven coats of polyurethane, resulting in drips and bubbles.
- Neglecting to sand between coats, which can prevent proper adhesion for subsequent layers.
- Rushing the drying process, as this can compromise the finish.
Taking your time and following each step carefully will guarantee high-quality results.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to seal cornhole boards properly can make a significant difference in the longevity and performance of your boards. From sanding and prepping to choosing the right sealer and applying multiple coats, every step in the process contributes to a professional-quality finish.
By investing time and effort into properly sealing your cornhole boards, you’ll ensure they remain a centerpiece of fun and competition for many years. Whether you’re playing on them during a backyard barbecue or in a high-stakes cornhole tournament, having well-sealed boards will elevate the game experience. Now that you know the process, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get started!
