PU oil seal Some of the most ornate and enduring pieces of furniture, cabinetry and decorative items are made from wood, the oldest and most popular building material in the world. However, without understanding how to make wood waterproof, most wood will be exposed to moisture and high humidity, causing it to swell, warp, and even rot. Luckily, you can easily take advantage of products that protect wood and enhance its natural beauty.
When choosing the method that’s right for you, keep in mind that some wood waterproofing methods work better on indoor and outdoor items, while others work better on dark or light wood.
Linseed and tung oils are the basis of almost all oil based hand rubs. These oils have been used for centuries to decorate and protect dark woods such as walnut and mahogany, and with some refinement they are still used today. However, since hand rub oil tends to turn yellow over time, skip this method if you are weatherproofing lighter colored woods such as pine or ash. While hand rub oils are great for dark woods, they tend to yellow over time, making them an unsuitable choice for light woods.
You can buy ready-made blends of tung oil and linseed oil, or you can mix them yourself to get a customized result. A standard hand rub mix is one part oil (tung oil or boiled flaxseed), one part mineral spirits, and one part polyurethane. Mixing the oil with other ingredients speeds up drying time and eliminates stickiness.
Danish tung or linseed oil (optional) White spirit (optional) Polyurethane (optional) Natural bristle brush Cloth Fine sandpaper
Once you’re familiar with the rubbing oil mix, feel free to experiment with recipes for different custom-made mixes. For thicker products, use less mineral spirits. If you need more time to work before the coating dries, use less polyurethane. Or, on the other hand, add more resin for a smoother finish and faster drying.
WARNING: Oilcloth used to wipe off excess oil may ignite spontaneously, even if placed away from an open flame. This is because the oil releases heat as it dries. When working, take precautions and keep a bucket of water handy; when the rag is soaked with oil, place it in the bucket while continuing to use the clean rag. Then hang the rags apart to dry. After complete drying, they can be safely disposed of, but the wipes cannot be reused.
Polyurethanes, lacquers and lacquers are proven sealants with excellent waterproof properties. For best results, apply the wood finish at room temperature (preferably 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Never shake or stir the sealant before application; this can cause air bubbles to remain on the wood surface even after the sealant has dried.
When choosing polyurethanes, varnishes, and wood waterproofing varnishes, consider the pros and cons of these popular types of sealants.
When you’re pressed for time or you’re protecting a large project like a wood deck, choose a quality stain remover. These multi-tasking products provide waterproofing in one step and add color.
Although wood stain and sealer are the easiest ways to weatherproof wood, they have their drawbacks in addition to convenience.
Whether you use oil finishes, sealers, or stains and sealers, the wood waterproofing process is critical to keeping wood flooring, furniture, and handicrafts waterproof. By using the methods above and the basic rules of thumb for waterproofing wood (such as choosing a well-ventilated workspace and using the right finish for the right wood grain), the resulting seal will remain waterproof and look its best for years to come.
Post time: Aug-24-2023