What are the differences between all the different types of clear finish. For example there is urethane, polyurethane, varethane, varnish, lacquer, spar finish, shellac. I'm wondering about the following properties: water/oil based, resistance to water, resistance to wear and tear, clarity, difficulty of application, difference in looks, and any other points you might know that distinguish them.
I'm gonna be coating a piece of furniture that will be exposed to water on a regular basis (fish tank stand) and I'm trying to figure out which one of the above is best to use, and why?
Thanks, Harry