“… the process wasn’t the most pleasant and Drew thinks I may have incurred a little brain damage from the fumes… However, the reward and DIY savings of beautiful, durable and easy to care for floors was well worth getting up early 4 days in a row! If I had to do it all over again – I would!” ~Jessica Skelton, TFU, Field Manager~

Many of you have seen the pictures of me wearing the hideous respirator while finishing the pine floors in our timber frame home. You probably thought “wow, she’s crazy and I would never go through that!” BUT before you make up your mind, let me tell you a little bit about Tung Oil; and why it was worth the DIY effort and resulting savings.

Tung Oil is pressed from the nut of the Tung tree. It is a clear oil (although you can get it tinted) originally used by the Chinese over 500 years ago to waterproof the keels of ships. Today, this oil is used as the protective base and beautiful finish for flooring and other wood surfaces. It provides excellent sealing and protection, and improves over time creating a rich antique appearance.

Because of its elasticity and penetrating capabilities, Tung Oil forms a highly resistant barrier against moisture. By saturating the wood fibers, the Tung Oil works to harden the wood and to seal these fibers against the penetration of any harmful moisture caused by spills, stains or fluctuation in humidity. The deep penetration of Tung Oil locks in the finish creating effective protection against daily wear.

Although protective equipment is suggested (respirator, gloves, etc.) to avoid the potentially intoxicating fumes, it was relatively easy to apply. In fact I did the downstairs floors in the morning before leaving for work every day! All you need to do is allow yourself the same time every day for 4 days. You apply one coat using a mop with a lamb’s wool applicator on the first day. Wait at least 24 hours but not much more and apply a second coat, then repeat for 2 more days – four coats in all. No sanding is necessary between coats… unless you want to buff out a rough spot or drip. I would highly recommend doing the application any time of the year other than the winter. It is important to be able to open the windows and have fans running to allow for adequate circulation.

Aside from the beauty and durability created by Tung Oil, the maintenance factor is what really sold me. It is easy to take care of! To clean it, all you need to do is either damp mop it or use a mixture of vinegar and water. Simple! Also, unlike most other finishes, Tung Oil can be spot applied in high traffic areas just by lightly sanding the area and applying a light coat. And perhaps best of all, if you decide to refinish the entire floor – it is not necessary to sand off the previous coats. All you do is apply another coat after a good cleaning.

I won’t lie – the process wasn’t the most pleasant and Drew thinks I may have incurred a little brain damage from the fumes (just kidding!). However, the reward and DIY savings of beautiful, durable and easy to care for floors was well worth getting up early 4 days in a row! If I had to do it all over again – I would! In fact I just finished the banister in Tung Oil and intend plan to do the baseboard molding, interior doors and other trim work as well. I’m addicted to the beauty as well as the ease of application! If DIY is your thing, don’t be afraid to try this and other projects during your homes construction. It’s a way to afford the home of your dreams within the parameters of your pocketbook. And even though you’ve never driven a nail, mitered a piece of molding or built your own set of steps… if you’re a determined DIYer… you’ll discover… YOU CAN!

Drew & Jessica Skelton
Field Mangers, TFU
(610) 476.4985
drew@timberframesunlimited.com
Jessica@timberframesunlimitedllc.com
www.timberframesunlimitedllc.com