"Scritch" wrote:

Although the top will be 4 inches thick, and
very stiff, I am beginning to be a little concerned that the top
surface
will be a bit soft, so I am thinking of putting on a layer of
hardwood for
durability.

Consider putting down a sacrificial piece of 1/4" hardboard held in
place with either fiddles or double backed tape at the corners only.

Simple, neat, easy and low cost.

Lew