What finish should I use?

Oil, wax, or polyurethane?

You've chosen gorgeous recycled timber from Turnaround Timbers, sanded it to perfection, and now it's time for the the finish. But with so many options, how do you choose? Don't sweat it! We're breaking down for you.

 

Organic oils

If you love a finish that feels as natural as the wood itself, organic oils and waxes are your eco-friendly go to. They soak into the wood, highlighting its natural grain and texture rather than sitting on top. It's like giving your timber a deep, healthy moisturise.

Benefits:

Eco friendly. Many organic oils and waxes are derived from plants, with significantly lower (or even zero!) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). What are VOCs? They're those gassy chemicals that can off-gas from some products, contributing to air pollution and sometimes affecting indoor air quality. With organic options, you and your home can breathe easier.

Healthier home. Low VOCs mean less chemical smell and a healthier environment for you, your family, and your pets. Win-win!

Repairability. Scratches or wear? No big deal. You can often spot-treat and re-apply oil or wax to blend seamlessly, making repairs a breeze.

Natural Feel. The wood still feels like wood – soft, warm, and authentic.

Easy Application.  Often wiped on, buffed off. Very forgiving for DIYers.

Durability: Good, but not bulletproof. They offer decent protection against moisture and wear but might need reapplication every few years, especially in high-traffic areas. Think of it like moisturizing your skin – regular top-ups keep it happy.

Perfect for: Furniture, benchtops (if maintained well), decorative pieces, and anyone wanting a truly natural look and feel.

 

Organic waxes

While wax can be a standalone finish, it's often used in conjunction with oil for an extra layer of protection and a lovely sheen. They provide a gentle, velvety glow. Wax brings out a soft lustre and offers a tactile, smooth feel.

Benefits:

Natural look and feel: Like oil, it celebrates the wood's inherent beauty.

Adds sheen: Gives a subtle, attractive glow that deepens over time.

Extra protection: When applied over oil, it adds another layer against moisture and minor scratches.

Repair friendly: Easy to reapply and buff out minor scuffs.

Low or zero VOCs: Most natural waxes are very low in VOCs, similar to organic oils.

Durability: Fair as a standalone. It's not as tough as oil or polyurethane against heavy wear and water. Best used for light-use items or as a top-up for oil finishes.

Perfect For: Decorative items, furniture with light use, adding a final touch to oiled surfaces, or creating a hand-rubbed, antique feel.

 

Polyurethane

If you need a finish that can really take a beating, polyurethane is often the go-to for its superhero-level protection. This is your clear, hard, protective shield. Polyurethane forms a durable layer on top of the wood, creating a strong barrier against spills and scuffs.

Benefits:

Super durability: This is its prime advantage! Polyurethane is incredibly tough, making it fantastic for high-traffic floors, busy tabletops, and areas that see a lot of action.

Water resistance: Forms a solid barrier against spills, making cleanup super easy.

Low Maintenance (Initially): Once applied and cured, it generally requires less frequent reapplication than oils or waxes.

What about VOC?

Traditional polyurethanes can be notorious for their high VOC content. That strong chemical smell you sometimes get? That's the VOCs off-gassing! It's important to ensure good ventilation during application and curing. While there are now water-based polyurethanes that significantly reduce VOCs, always check the label!

Durability: Excellent! It’s highly resistant to scratches, dents, and water damage. However, if it does get damaged, spot repairs can be tricky and often require sanding down and re-coating the entire surface.

Perfect for: Floors, dining tables, outdoor furniture (exterior polyurethanes), or anything that needs serious protection.

 

At Turnaround Timbers recommend the Gilly's organic oils and waxes. We stock a selection of the Gilly's range as a one-stop-shop for recycled wood and finish.