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Derived from the seed of the tung tree (Vernicia fordii), this fully sustainable oil has a venerable history. Tung oil has been in use for centuries, with references dating as far back as the writings of Confucius around 500BC. The Chinese have used it for wood finishing, wood waterproofing, caulking, inks and paints for the last 2,500 years. They even used it to waterproof their traditional boats known as junks.
When used correctly, tung oil is a wonderful way to seal and protect many finishes. It requires patience and care to apply correctly in the first place. Some may find it beneficial to sand between coats, however this isn’t always necessary. Patience is paramount, so that the polymerisation (hardening) process occurs as it should.
As a general rule of thumb – you can recoat after 24 hours. Tung oil can take around 4 weeks to completely ‘cure’, after which regular use can commence. It is best to leave your application area unused for the first week or so to ensure the finish isn’t affected. Light use is acceptable for the following 3 weeks. If you were planning on waxing over the top, it is also best to wait until after the full 4 weeks.
Why We Love It – Pure Tung Oil (not blended with synthetic chemicals)
Tung oil has some amazing properties, which make it a superb product in so many ways. Let’s look at some of these:
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100% natural
We can have our cake and eat it! A fantastic finish that doesn’t hurt our environment.
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It is food safe and seals timber
We use it in our Kitchen Bench Oil, which when cured creates a beautiful, natural waterproof barrier on timber or bamboo food preparation areas (and bathrooms of course).
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Low allergen
Tung oil is actually derived from a seed rather than a nut (as it sometimes incorrectly claimed).
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Not just for timber
It is so versatile it can be used to seal concrete, slate and stone surfaces.
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No yellowing over time
Tung oil remains clear, so it’s perfect for retaining the original colour of pale timbers. You will find a tendency for other products such as linseed oil and varnishes to yellow over time.
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Rancidity? None
This amazing oil remains as fresh and new as the day it was applied!
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Drying time
The drying time for tung oil is actually faster than pure linseed oil (the ‘boiled’ variety in the stores is laced with toxic, synthetic chemicals to speed up the drying process).
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VOC free
Imagine that – a superb finish with no nasty-smelling solvents to breathe in!
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Flexibility even when cured
Your timber surface can expand and contract naturally with environmental conditions without cracking or ever losing its beauty.
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Maintenance is easy
To maintain a tung oil finish is no hassle at all! If it scratches or scuffs, you can simply touch up the area affected. There is no need to sand back the whole finish like you would have to with varnishes and polyurethanes.
