People are always looking for ways to preserve wood from rotting away. Some will discover new methods while some will stick to ‘old tricks’. Motor oil has been widely used over the years and it seems to gain momentum and popularity by the minute. This, therefore, begs the question; can you use used motor oil to preserve the word?
Used motor oil can perfectly preserve the wood. This is because used motor oil cannot completely dry. It keeps sipping deeper into the wood. This action will stabilize the wood by making it strong and durable. On the flip side, you cannot use this method to preserve indoor wood.
Using used motor oil is only best for outdoor woodwork. It is also one of the less expensive methods for preserving wood as compared to linseed oil and other premium preservatives. Especially for a large-scale project. If you are working on a shoestring budget and there is a need to preserve wood, perhaps you should consider not disposing of that used motor oil.
As much as this method might contain toxic ingredients to be used for indoor purposes, they do not dry off like their counterpart linseed. On the flip seed, its constant leaking and staining can be offensive. But that should not be a big deal. Keep reading to find much more on the effectiveness of used motor oil and how you can use it to preserve the wood.
Does Oil and Diesel Mixed Treat Wood?
Most petroleum-based solvents are excellent wood preservatives. Diesel is particularly one of the best for this purpose, and it can also be used for staining. This is because diesel solvents can easily and quickly be absorbed into the woods.
Using oil and diesel on wood will help condition it. It also makes it water and rot-resistant by soaking into the wood pores. This process will slow down the absorption of water into the wood, thus making it durable and rot-free.
How to Stain Wood with Oil and Diesel
Applying diesel and oil on wood for preservation and staining purposes is easy and effective. You do not need a professional to do it for you unless you don’t have time in your hands. All you need is the oil and dies and a piece of sponge or cloth. Follow these steps for application.
Step 1: Examine Your Wood
Examine your wood before staining for any rot and other inconsistencies. Choose a suitable color and decide on whether to use either used motor oil or diesel or a mixture of both. Whatever you choose, it is good to note that they both need hours to dry.
Step 2: Mix your Oil and Diesel in the Right Proportion
Measure the oil and diesel in the right ratio and mix them well. Use a metal container for mixing and ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area. Thoroughly stir the mixture until they are completely infused.
Step 3: Stain Your Wood
Now you are ready to stain your wood. Either use a sponge or a cloth to apply the mixture to the wood. If you are using a reusable brush, wash it thoroughly white spirit.
List of the Best Oil for Wood Preserving
Oil finishes are the best thing you can ever give to your wood. They are mostly eco-friendly and non-toxic. This traditional finish is the best alternative for texture grain pattern and protection of the wood. Here is a list of some of the oil you can use on your wood.
1. Linseed Oil
It is also known as flaxseed. This oil is one of the most popular wood finishes. It works by saturating deep into the wood. It also prevents scratches and effects from environmental changes that alter the look and the composition of the wood.
You will love the satin finish from this oil. A smooth layer will accentuate the true color of your wood and the grains underneath. On the flip side, it gets hard for the linseed to cure. It can take weeks. It also contains toxic components and drying compounds.
2. Tung Oil
This plant-based oil finish will enhance and protect your wood. It is clear and effortless to cure. This traditional wood finish works best by penetrating deep into the grains of the wood and working magic. This oil has become a staple for most artisans over the years, and it does an excellent job for them.
This oil is all-natural and is extracted by cold pressing tung seeds. The oil is also non-toxic and eco-friendly. It maintains the original color of the wood over the years, and unlike other oils, it’s quality and effectiveness do not degenerate.
3. Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is derived from petroleum. It is clear and odorless. It is also non-toxic and edible without causing any poisoning. Mineral oil is mostly used in chopping boards, wood utensils, tables, among other food carriers and containers.
Besides using this sophisticated wood finish, it has been dermatologically approved to use in manufacturing skin products. Most baby oils contain this oil, and this should tell you how gentle and effective it is. On the flip side, when it comes to serious wood oiling, this mineral oil does not have the best traits compared to others.
4. Walnut Oil
Just like the mineral oil, this oil is used as a wood finish for food holders. It is non-toxic and contains food-safe properties. This multipurpose wood protectant is made from a walnut tree which is edible and non-poisonous.
This oil takes time to cure completely. However, if you must speed up the process, you can use mineral spirits. It is ideally good to let your oil naturally dry off to reap a bounty from it.
5. Danish Oil
This exquisite wood finish is one of the most popular among artisans. This wood finish is not as natural as most other oils because it contains several other ingredients. It has other oils, including thickeners, thinners among several other ingredients. This product protects your wood from the inside out.
This oil is an excellent drying oil that is very easy to cure. It contains all the natural oils in it for outstanding performance. One of its outstanding traits is its resistance to a chemical reaction. It also protects against scratches, heat, and stains.
