I am in the process of having the windows replaced in our house – a project too big for the do-it-yourselfer that I am. We had to replace the woodwork and primarily due to cost, but also to match existing woodwork, we have used maple. I am now trying to find a finish that best compliments the wood and have not had good luck with numerous stains. How about tung oil or Watco? My sample pieces turn out beautifully, but I can find hardly a mention of using oils for woodwork on the Web. Suggestions much appreciated!
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Replies
Oil finishes are not appropriate for exterior surfaces, so if you're talking about any exterior woodwork, use spar varnish over maple.
For interior work Tung oil or a penetrating oil/varnish finish (like Watco) looks good on maple, but too many applications of Watco will yellow the wood. I've recently switched from Watco to using a home-based oil/varnish brew (1/3 BLO or Tung, 1/3 Alkyd varnish, 1/3 mineral spirits) and am very happy with its results, including on maple.
Oil finishes are moderately durable but easy to repair. Ditto for a shellac finish. Check out the archives on this board to find tons of comments on oil finishes.
Good luck,
Paul
I guess I have to ask what you're looking for. Lacquer is hands down the most common thing used for interior trim. Every once in a while, I'll see some painter groaning that they got a homeowner that "knows" paint products and has insisted on varnish or something that they spend weeks brushing. Lacquer and maple do good together. If you don't want it to yellow, use a waterborne.
"If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man." - Mark Twain
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