What surfaces can I use wood oils on?
Treatex and Osmo oils are designed to be used on bare wood. The oils penetrate the surface of the wood and create a bond which stops flaking and peeling.
We have had customers who have used oils on untreated slate, and clay tiles. However be aware that the oils will darken the surfaces and once applied is very difficult to remove.
Testers are available for most of the oils and we highly recommend testing before application to any surface.
Can I apply the oils with a cloth?
You can use a cloth however, we recommend using a brush or roller for applying Treatex and Osmo oils. You can use a cloth to remove any excess oil if necessary.
Can I use the wood oils on plywood and veneered wood?
Timber manufacturers often advise against the use of oil on veneered wood. The reason for the advice is that there is a concern that the penetrating oil may react with the glue which bonds the wood laminates.
Both Treatex and Osmo oils have been used successfully by laminate door manufacturers with no problems. We would however recommend testing first as not all manufacturers use the same glues.
What ingredients are in the wood oils?
Treatex:
Linseed Oil, Sunflower Oil, Jojoba Oil, Beeswax, Carnuba Wax and Candelilla Wax.
OSMO:
Natural vegetable oils; linseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil as well as thistle oil. The interior range of products also contain natural vegetable waxes; carnauba wax and candelilla wax
Why is the finish not hardening?
There are a few reasons why Hardwax oils may not harden properly.
Over application: Wood oils should be applied in 2 very thin coats. Over application through multiple or heavy coats will result in little or no penetration in these circ*mstances the hard-wax oil remains on the surface and become sticky.
Previous Treatments: Previous treatments such as varnish, lacquer or paint will stop the oils from penetrating the wood. Surfaces should be sanded to bare wood and recoated.
Oily Wood species: Some species of wood naturally contain large amounts of oils or resin which can stop the oil treatments from penetrating the surface. Both Treatex and Osmo have specialist products for oily and tight grained woods. Call us for more information.
Fine Sanding: Timber should not be sanded to finely as this will inhibit penetration of the oils. Finishing with a P120 sand paper is a good option. The uses of finer grades of sandpaper will close the grain.
In 2018 Treatex introduced their ‘Hardwax Oil Ultra’ to replace the original Hardwax Oil. The Hardwax Oil Ultra can be applied more generously than the original without any drying problems.
What is the best way of cleaning floors treated with wax oils?
Do not clean with strong detergents and avoid using steam, this will damage hard-wax finishes.
Both Treatex and Osmo have cleaning products developed specifically for use with their wax oils. Both products clean the floor gently and add a tiny amount of wax each time to add extra protection to the floor.
https://www.celticsustainables.co.uk/treatex-floor-care/
https://www.celticsustainables.co.uk/osmo-wash-and-care/
We also recommend you regularly sweep floors with a soft dry mop or brush to remove any abrasive dust and grit which may scratch the surface of the floor.
Are these oils fire resistant?
The dried finish of the hard-wax oils is classified as B2 (normal flammability) according to DIN 4102 regulations. They do not increase or decrease the surface spread of fire.
