Can Tung Oil Be Used On Outdoor Furniture

Can Tung Oil Be Used On Outdoor Furniture?

Tung oil is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the tung tree. It is a popular choice for finishing wood surfaces because it is durable, water-resistant, and imparts a beautiful golden color. But can tung oil be used on outdoor furniture? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know.

First, tung oil is not as UV-resistant as some other finishes, such as polyurethane. This means that it can break down over time when exposed to direct sunlight. To protect your outdoor furniture from UV damage, you should apply a UV-resistant topcoat over the tung oil.

Second, tung oil is not as water-resistant as some other finishes. This means that it is important to reapply tung oil to your outdoor furniture regularly, especially if it is exposed to rain or snow. Tung oil finishes do not create a film on the surface of the wood. Instead, they soak into the wood and form a hard, durable finish. With repeated use, the tung oil will penetrate deeper and deeper into the wood, making the finish more resistant to water and wear.

Finally, tung oil can be slow to dry. It can take up to 24 hours for a single coat of tung oil to dry completely. This can be a problem if you are trying to finish your outdoor furniture quickly. However, there are ways to speed up the drying process. You can apply a heat gun to the tung oil finish, or you can place the furniture in a warm, dry area.

Overall, tung oil is a good choice for finishing outdoor furniture. It is durable, water-resistant, and imparts a beautiful golden color. However, it is important to keep in mind the limitations of tung oil. You should apply a UV-resistant topcoat to protect your outdoor furniture from UV damage. You should also reapply tung oil regularly, especially if it is exposed to rain or snow.