Saturday, May 20, 2017

Oiling Wooden Furniture:Is It Needed?

Some people suggest applying wood oil on wooden furniture to prolong its lifespan and protect it from external elements.However, it is simpler in theory than in practice because of the various factors that need to be considered before oiling of the furniture is done.

Image source:popularwoodworking.com


The first thing to decide on is determining what type of oil finish to use – drying or non-drying. Drying oil is a liquid solution that turns into solid after exposure to air, the amount of which is dependent on the specific type of oil. Non-drying oil, meanwhile, remains wet even after application, thus, some consider it a treatment and not actually a finish.

Other than the finish, the specific type of oil is also to be considered. There are plenty to choose from, including Danish oil, teak oil, standard linseed oil, mineral oil, and Tung oil. All these oils have distinct characteristics and work differently with specific wood types.

Furthermore, applying wood oil requires safety precautions because the material is typically highly flammable and combustible.

Image source:drkarchitects.com


With all of the aforementioned factors, the question that rings in the mind of wooden furniture owners is if it is really necessary to use wood oil.While it can prove advantageous in preserving the furniture, it is not an absolute necessity.Other alternatives produce similar results, especially the implementation of an appropriate maintenance or protection program.

Guardian Protection Products Inc. is a renowned leader in the furniture protection industry, providing protection plans that cover both indoor and outdoor furniture. For more information, visit this website.