Oiling Wood: A Complete Guide

It is no secret that we believe wood is a beautiful and natural material that adds warmth and elegance to any home or outdoor space. However, in order to preserve its beauty and durability, wood requires regular care and maintenance. One of the most effective ways to protect and refresh wood is by oiling it. In this article, we will explore the benefits of oiling wood, provide a step-by-step guide to wood treatment, and explain how you can achieve the best possible results with the right preparation and application techniques.

Why Choose Oil Treatment for Wood?

Oiling wood is a popular method because it not only protects the wood against wear and weather, but also enhances its natural beauty. Oil adds depth to the surface and helps bring out the wood’s natural grain patterns and structure.

In addition, oil helps protect wood from moisture and everyday wear, as it forms a protective layer that maintains the wood over time. Finally, oiling wood can also be one of the more environmentally friendly solutions, especially when using oils made with eco-friendly ingredients such as our interior oil Oil Plus 2C and outdoor oil DuroGrit.

Step-by-Step Guide to Oiling Wood

1. Preparation

Before you begin oiling your wood surface, it is important that the surface is clean and free from dirt and old treatment residues. If the surface only has light dust and dirt, it can be cleaned using our Cleaner for indoor projects, or our Exterior Wood Cleaner for outdoor use.

If the wood has scratches, stains, or uneven areas, sanding may be the best solution. Always remember to remove sanding dust thoroughly before applying oil.

2. Choose the Right Wood Oil

There are different types of wood oils depending on where and how the wood will be used. For indoor furniture and floors, we recommend our Oil Plus 2C. For outdoor wood such as decking and garden furniture, you will need an oil with added UV protection, such as our DuroGrit exterior oil.

3. Apply the Oil

Once the wood is prepared and you have chosen the correct oil, you can begin the application process:

• Use a clean cloth, brush, or sponge to apply the oil in one even layer.
• Work the oil thoroughly into the wood surface.
• If using Oil Plus 2C, wipe off any excess oil after a few minutes.
• If using DuroGrit, do not wipe off the excess oil.
• After just one single layer, you will achieve a beautiful and durable finish.

4. One Single Coat is Enough

After applying the oil, it is important to let the surface dry completely. Drying time typically ranges between 12 and 24 hours depending on the oil type and the wood’s absorption. With our oils, only one coat is needed to achieve the desired result. Rubio Monocoat oils are developed with a unique molecular bonding technology that allows the oil to bond with the wood fibres after just one single layer.

Wood Treatment for Different Purposes

Oiling wood can be used on many different types of wooden surfaces, including beech tables, Douglas wood, and many other wood species. Most of us have multiple wooden surfaces both indoors and outdoors, and all of them can benefit from oil treatment in order to preserve the wood’s natural structure and appearance.

Indoor Wooden Surfaces

When it comes to oiling indoor wooden surfaces, wooden floors, furniture, kitchen countertops, and staircases often benefit greatly from maintenance using our Oil Plus 2C. This provides a durable and natural-looking finish while helping the surface resist daily wear and tear.

Outdoor Wooden Surfaces

Outdoor wood is often exposed to harsh weather conditions, and a strong oil treatment with DuroGrit can extend the lifespan of surfaces such as terraces, garden furniture, and wooden fences. The oil protects the wood from strong sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes.

Tips for a Successful Wood Treatment

To achieve the best results, it can be helpful to test the oil on a small sample area first, ensuring the colour matches your expectations. Once applied, the oil provides effective protection, but depending on the surface and its exposure, it may be necessary to repeat the treatment annually for long-lasting results.

Final Thoughts

Overall, oiling wood is a simple yet highly effective way to protect and enhance wooden surfaces. Whether you are working with furniture, floors, or outdoor areas, proper wood treatment can restore the surface and bring new life to your wood.