Linseed, Sunflower and Rapeseed Oil

• Linseed, sunflower and rapeseed oil have been used for years as wood preservatives. Fences, logs and furniture are typical wood surfaces appropriate for linseed oil treatment. These oils work as preservatives by repelling water and are usually applied directly to the wood surface. They do not prevent insect infestation or mildew. "Boiled" linseed oil (i.e., linseed oil with certain solvents) dries quickly and is usually used in place of the slow-drying regular variety, which can remain sticky for months after application.

Tung Oil

• For centuries, tung oil was used by the Chinese as a preservative for wooden ships. Tung oil penetrates wood to a depth of about 1/4" and forms a water-repellent layer. Generally, tung oil is applied in successive applications, allowing time for each application to penetrate. It gives a beautiful "wet wood" finish to natural woods. Tung oil is sometimes used as a finish for kitchen items like cutting boards and wood bowls, but since it is derived from a nut it can cause a severe allergic reaction in some individuals.

Watco Danish Oil

• Watco Danish Oil is a brand-name oil treatment for wood favored by many woodcarving artists and woodworkers. Danish oil comes in various shades (stains) and can be wet-sanded to a high-gloss finish. The oil is applied in multiple coats over time, with sanding in between, and the final gloss finish is achieved by an application of a paste wax. Danish oil is typically used to close pores on open-pored wood, where other natural oils would not be practical.

Oil

• An oil finish is a thin finish that does not require multiple coats. Oil solidifies the resins and makes the wood harder, in addition to changing the color to suit your taste.

It's Easier

• Woodworkers commonly use all sorts of finishes like a varnish or a lacquer, but those can be less for forgiving if a mistake is made. An oil treatment is easier to apply and correct mistakes, making it perfect for beginners.

Drawback

• Oil finishes cannot achieve a glassy, smooth appearance that varnishes or lacquers can, though glassy finishes can be applied after the oil if it is desired. Oil also cannot be used on wood that has been filled with a paste filler or silica.

Types of Oils

• There are two types of linseed oil, extracted from flax seed, both raw and boiled. There are also oil and wax combinations that attempt to gloss the surface to overcome oil's lack of a gloss. There are also oil-modified urethane finishes and tung oil, to name a few types.

Preference

• The various types and combinations of oils and waxes come down to preference. Different types provide different colors and styles. No matter which you choose, it is important dust and sweep the floor to insure it's clean before applying any treatment. Light sanding may be helpful as well.