Finishes are one of the last steps to complete a woodworking project. They help offer a finished look to your furniture, hide surface defects, and protect it from environmental damage.
Several finishes are available, and they all have different properties and uses. Whether you’re looking for a clear wood finish or an industrial-grade 2-part coating, this article will help guide you through your options.
Tung Oil
Tung oil is a natural drying wood finish used for thousands of years and used in advanced wood finishing techniques. It creates a beautiful, rugged, and highly water-resistant coating on wood and other porous surfaces.
It is also environmentally friendly because it is made from a natural plant that is not prone to pests and has no VOCs. Also, it is a fantastic substitute for conventional alkyd finishes like varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane.
When appropriately applied, tung oil can resist marring and penetrate well. It is a non-toxic, water-resistant, food-safe, and anti-mildew finish that is easy to clean with commercial cleaning products.
The application process of tung oil takes a long time, and you must wait several days between coats to allow it to dry completely. If you rush the process, you may have wrinkles that must be sanded off later.
Tung oil absorbs 12% of the atmospheric oxygen and crosslinks with it to form a rugged, waterproof film on the wood surface. It is a natural finishing product that can protect wooden tables, chopping boards, butcher blocks, and more.
Tung oil is a popular choice among woodworkers for its flexibility and resistance to marring. It also has an excellent matte finish that can be used for various projects.
Linseed Oil
Boiled linseed oil is an excellent choice for coating wood surfaces and preventing water damage. Unlike other methods, it requires no special surface prep. Just apply it with a clean cloth and allow the surface to dry.
Different types of boiled linseed oil include raw and polymerized versions. Both have the same benefits and can be used in many applications, but raw linseed oil can take weeks to dry thoroughly, making it impractical for specific projects or situations.
The most natural form of linseed oil is raw and can be used with drying agents to speed up curing. It can also be diluted with citrus solvents or odorless thinners.
However, if you are using raw linseed oil in a humid climate, it can encourage mildew growth. It can be a problem in homes susceptible to mold and mildew, especially in high-traffic areas like floors.
It is best to use a polymerized version of linseed oil, as it dries faster and shows less yellowing. This type of oil also contains drying additives, such as cobalt or manganese.
Tung oil is another standard option for finishing wooden items. It dries faster than raw linseed oil and doesn’t yellow as quickly, but it requires five or more coats to saturate the wood and provide protection thoroughly. Tung oil can be used for various finishes, including furniture, floors, and other wooden surfaces.
Danish Oil
Danish Oil is a blend of Tung Oil with resins and solvents to offer an excellent finish for most wood types. It penetrates deep into the timber, offering a durable natural, water-resistant, low-sheen finish.
It can be used on interior and exterior wooden surfaces, including garden furniture. It provides a smooth, complex, water-resistant satin finish that is easy to apply.
The finish is also breathable and suitable for most wood types. It is easy to use and requires only a few coats for a long-lasting finish.
When applying Danish oil, it is essential to do so evenly along the wood grain. It is also necessary to avoid brush marks from occurring.
As you continue to apply Danish oil, the color of the wood will darken, enhancing its overall appearance. The degree of the change will depend on the type of wood, the number of coats, and other factors.
A thin coat should be applied with a brush and allowed to penetrate the wood for around 20 minutes. It will enable the wood to absorb the oil and dry quickly.
After the application is complete, allow it to cure at room temperature for at least 6 hours. The drying time will vary depending on environmental conditions.
If you are planning to use Danish oil on outdoor furniture, it is recommended that you reapply the finish once every two years or so. It will prevent further damage and protect the woodwork against sun and moisture.
Wipe-On Oil
Several different wipe-on oil finishes can be used to protect and finish your wood. Each is designed to withstand water, household chemicals, food stains, and wear. Some are made specifically for interior furniture and intricate wood items. Others are meant for exterior wood surfaces.
Wipe-on oils are forgiving, easy to use, and provide beautiful results. They are a popular choice for both old and new woodworkers.
They can be applied easily with a brush or cloth and come in many varieties: oils, waxes, urethanes, and combined products. Knowing the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications is essential for mastering the perfect finish.
Tung and boiled linseed oil are excellent for a soft finish that can be brushed or wiped. However, they are less protective and durable than other finishes.
Fortunately, the manufacturers of some of these wipe-on oil products have taken steps to improve their performance. They have added manufactured resins and solvents to make application easier while reducing poky drying times.
Some of these products also have added additives that speed up curing. It is mainly the case with raw tung oil.