Acacia wood is an amazing choice for both outdoor and indoor furniture. However, keeping it unprotected can ruin its texture and wither its royal look. For this reason, people go for wood oiling.
But the question is, “what kind of oil is the best for acacia wood?” The best option for oiling acacia wood is drying mineral oils such as tung oil for outdoor furniture and boiled/polymerized linseed oil for indoor furniture (especially those in contact with food items). Other options include teak oil, danish oil, and olive oil.
Now, it might be hard for you to make the right choice. Therefore, we have a proper guide for you explaining the uses of different oils for acacia wood and much more. So, if you want to learn everything about oiling acacia wood, read further!
Best Oils for Acacia Wood
If you have put your acacia wood furniture outdoors all year round, oiling it will keep it looking luxurious and rich. But the question is which oils you can use on acacia wood? You can find multiple options on the market and most of them are good enough. Let’s learn how different oils work for acacia wood!
Tung Oil
Tung oil consists of a high concentration of fatty acids like palmitic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid. These fatty acids provide acacia wood protection from:
- Sunlight (UV Rays)
- Water
- Mold
Even though acacia wood itself is quite resistant to fungus, tung oil increases the ability of the wood. You can avoid your acacia wood furniture from being damaged by the sun by applying a good coat of tung oil on it.
It is one of the most water-resistant oils and protects the wood from being warped. Due to this reason, it is a great option for outdoor acacia wood furniture.
Tung oil not only provides protection but also enhances the look of acacia wood. It has an almost matte finish with a hint of sheen in it. The outcome is a golden almost matte color that makes the acacia wood look luxurious.
Tung oil is quite thick therefore, people dilute it with thinners or hydrocarbons. The thin consistency after dilution makes it easier to apply. The curing time is approximately 15-30 days depending upon the environmental conditions. It dries up much faster than other oils.
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil or flaxseed oil has a slight grassy smell in it. It is an affordable option that is also ecological. Pure linseed oil is hard to use as it takes too long to dry and the surface becomes sticky after drying.
The best way to use linseed oil on acacia wood is by adding drying agents to it. Moreover, polymerized linseed oil or boiled linseed oil is the best option available in the market for oiling acacia wood furniture. This type of linseed oil has a very short drying time.
After curing, it has a satin finish with a golden hue. The gold color turns to amber over time.
In terms of protection, it provides a barrier against mold, water, and abrasion. It also protects the acacia wood surface from alcohol, juice, coffee, and other drinks stains.
Linseed oil is the best option for acacia wood if it comes in contact with food. Mostly, people use it for oiling acacia wood kept indoors and not outdoors. It’s because it doesn’t provide much protection against UV rays.
Teak Oil
Another good option for acacia wood outdoor furniture is teak oil. It prevents staining or scratching of the wood. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor furniture as it is resistant to water and UV rays.
It consists of a mix of oils and varnishes such as linseed oil, petroleum naphtha, tung oil, etc. Teak oil enhances the look of acacia wood furniture. Its high penetration soaks in the wood giving it a beautiful walnut-colored finish.
One good thing about teak oil is that it ensures that the longevity of acacia wood oil increases and its natural finish remains intact.
How to Oil Acacia Wood? Step-by-Step Guide
After knowing which oil is best for acacia wood, you must be wondering, “how to effectively oil acacia wood?” Well, it isn’t hard to oil acacia wood. You only need to follow the simple steps given below!
Clean the Surface
Before starting the actual oiling process, you must start with a clean surface. Cleaning the acacia wood will make the oiling easier and more effective. If you get rid of dust and debris from the wood, the oiling process will be smooth.
You don’t want to lock any stains or trap any dust on the surface. So, if you see any stains, use a damp cloth or even mild soap for proper cleaning.
Dry the Surface
Make sure that the surface is dry and moisture-free before applying the oil to the acacia wood. Avoiding this step can trap moisture in the wood and ruin the oiling process. The oil can also peel off after drying due to the moisture.
Scuff the Surface
For a smoother and better application, use sandpaper for scuffing the acacia wood surface. This allows the surface to soak in the oil quickly by opening the grains. You will notice a huge difference in the application process and final results by doing this step.
Apply the Oil on Acacia Wood
Take the oil of your choice and dip a clean rag or cloth in it. Gently start applying the oil on the wood in the direction of the grain. Let the first coat dry before applying the second coat.
You can scuff again when the first coat is dried up. But don’t do it too harshly. It will give you an even coat and a smooth surface.
You can also use a paint brush for applying the oil as it will be easier to get into the crevices.
Benefits of Oiling Acacia Wood
Acacia wood can become dry and dull if not oiled every year. So, if you want your acacia wood furniture to look fresh and beautiful all the time, use a suitable oil for it. Oiling the acacia wood provides the following benefits:
- Oiling acacia wood protects it against sun damage enhancing its lifespan.
- Acacia wood oiling highlights its color variation making it look luxurious with a dark rich color.
- Oiling wood protects it from staining and graying.
- Wood oiling revives the shine of the wood and restores its whole look.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Often Should You Oil Acacia Wood?
Once or twice a year is enough for oiling acacia wood. Once is a must while oiling twice will keep it shining and rich-looking throughout the year.
- Can You Use Danish Oil on Acacia Wood?
Danish oil is great for oiling acacia wood. It enhances its ability to resist dirt and staining. Danish oil makes acacia wood durable with a beautiful finish.
- What’s the Difference Between Linseed Oil and Tung Oil?
Tung oil has a matte finish. It dries faster than linseed oil and is more resistant to water and UV rays making it perfect for outdoor furniture. Linseed oil has a satin finish with a hint of yellow color. It is a more affordable option and is best for indoor furniture.
Final Thoughts
After learning everything about oiling acacia wood, you must get on with it and protect your indoor and outdoor furniture against elements. Acacia wood looks gorgeous when you maintain it and take care of it. Oiling the wood makes it easier to maintain and preserves its gorgeous looks. So, what are you waiting for?
