How to pick the right oil for the job

Whatever the project you’re working on, you’ll find something for the job in our comprehensive timber oil range. Whether you’re wanting to protect a brand new timber benchtop or are touching up sun drenched windowsills, we’ve got something for you. We’re all about empowered and educated DIY so if you need any advice, just sing out.

Before we get into what product works best where, let’s look at what kind of substrate we’re working with? If your surface has previously been oiled or varnished it’s best to remove this coating before applying our products. Once you’re back to the basics it’s time to clean and sand so the wood is prepared for application. If it’s virgin timber then you’re good to go after a light sanding. This opens up the fibers, allowing better penetration by the oil or stain.

Now… what type of project are we working on?

Timber Walls, Ceilings, Doors, Windows and Furniture

For retaining the original colour of the timber you’ll want to use Pure Interior Oil in a Clear tint with either a matt or semi-gloss finish depending on your preference. Walls and ceilings will want 2 to 3 coats with doors, windows and furniture needing 4 coats. When white-washing or colour tinting the timber, choose your favourite shade from our Pure Interior Oil range. Grab a few Test Pots to figure out which shade will look primo in your space by comparison. This oil won’t make light wood golden or yellow and will provide a water resistant finish to protect your timber from moisture in the home.

To enhance and enrich the natural look of the timber, it’s Pure Danish Oil on the job, with 2 to 3 coats for walls and ceilings, 4 coats for doors, windows and furniture. Our Danish Oil is a combination of 80% Pure Tung Oil and 20% Citrus Thinner made at our Christchurch HQ. The thinner allows the oil to penetrate deeper into the timber and decreases the drying time. Once evaporated, the thinner leaves behind a beautiful Tung Oil matt finish. Pure Danish Oil is completely water resistant and is food safe, so it’s perfect for coating chopping boards or kitchen tables.

Timber Benchtops or Timber & Earth Flooring

When tackling a surface that takes a fair few knocks such as your floor or benchtop, you’re going to want something extra durable. Our Hard Floor Oil is up for the challenge, providing a commercial grade, hardwearing film finish across the surface. Forget about using polyurethane! Apply 4 coats to your substrate for a child and pet friendly coating that’s fully waterproof and won’t force you to move out during application due to the fumes— the benefit of choosing natural. This will last 7 to 10 years before requiring a touch up and with a matt/satin finish, you can’t go wrong. If you’re looking to give the timber a coloured tint, apply 2 coats of Pure Interior Oil before going in with your Hard Floor Oil.

External Decking, Windows, Furniture and Outdoors Cladding

UV protection and high durability are most important when coating external timbers that are exposed to the harsh weather conditions. We recommend our natural, long lasting Exterior Stain for the perfect matt finish. Fast drying, water resistant and resisting mold growth in wet outdoor spaces, this stain simplifies external timber care. Expect to get 2 to 3 years out of your stain before needing a top up, and with a range of lights to darks, you’ll find exactly what your wood needs in our range. Don’t forget to use our handy oil calculator to work out how much you’ll need when adding to cart.

Mudbrick or Earth Walls and Ceilings

When working with earth based substrates you’ll want to ensure they’re clean and ready for coating. To retain the colour or slightly lighten the tone, you’ll need 2 to 3 coats of Pure Interior Oil Clear to do the job. Choose from a matt or semi-gloss finish depending on your style. You can trust that your beautiful surface will be fully protected and completely waterproof. If you’re looking to enrich and darken the tone then Pure Danish Oil is what you need. This will also ensure the substrate is completely resistant to water and will fill your home with the refreshing smell of citrus when applied.

With substrates given to us from nature, such as timber and mudbrick, it only seems right that we coat them with natural, non-toxic products. The natural environment is mighty, resistant and durable— so are these products. No matter the project you’re working on, we’ll have something that’ll do what you need and if you’ve got any curly questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.