I chose to use a hardwood 8/4 for its durability. Keep that oiled and wax will last a life time. In my shop now, we have these lower assembly tables (24" tall)but they all have Formica tops (plastic lam) on them to ease of maintenance. Dried glue, no problem. Knock them off with a scraper. Wipe to clean and pieces slide off it without a scratch. Personally, I still like a nice wood top.
