No, tung oil and Waterlox are not the same. Tung oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the tung tree, while Waterlox is a brand of finish made from a blend of tung oil, phenolic-modified resins, and other ingredients.
Tung oil is a popular wood finish that is most often used for protecting and beautifying wood surfaces, and it is usually used with the help of a cloth or cotton pad. It provides a natural, matte finish that has a subtle shine.
In contrast, Waterlox is a highly protective, low-gloss finish that offers superior scratch, wear, and chemical-resistance. Waterlox provides a subtle, satin sheen, which is more difficult to achieve with just tung oil alone.
What kind of finish is Waterlox?
Waterlox is a finish that is both a tung oil based product and a urethane finish. It can be used various types of wood, concrete, and metal surfaces to enhance and protect the look of a room. It’s a hard, durable finish that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
It’s easy to apply and maintain, and it resists wears caused by water, spills, and foot traffic. With the tung oil base, it gives the surface a deep, warm, satiny luster. It also has an amber hue that helps to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
Waterlox will never peel, crack, or flake so it is a great choice for high traffic areas and any space that will be exposed to moisture.
Is Waterlox oil or water based?
Waterlox is an oil-modified polyurethane finish that is both a wood sealer and a protective top coat. It is designed to penetrate deeply into the wood surface to provide a tough, durable surface that is easy to maintain.
Unlike traditional polyurethane finishes, Waterlox does not require sanding between coats and it does not form an impervious plastic-like surface. It is an oil-based finish, made from tung oil and phenolic resins that should not be confused with regular polyurethanes, which are water-based.
Although Waterlox is an oil-based finish, it hardens and is waterproof, so it dries to a plastic-like coating. This makes it very easy to use, and easy to maintain with regular maintenance.
Does Waterlox darken wood?
Yes, Waterlox can darken wood depending on the type. All oil-based finishes such as Waterlox can darken wood, but the darkness will depend on the specific type of wood and the formula of the finish. The type and age of the wood can determine how much the color is enhanced.
Some woods, such as aged fir, oak, walnut, and mahogany may darken significantly, while lighter woods such as pine, ash, birch, and maple may only darken a little bit. Waterlox Original Tung oil-based finish can darken a wide variety of woods and provides a beautiful, rich color and highlights the natural grain.
If a darker color is desired, Waterlox recommends applying a second coat of finish, which should intensify the color. It is important to remember, however, that there is no guarantee of the exact color that will be achieved with any finish and it may vary with different types of wood.
How long does Waterlox last?
Waterlox Original formula can last up to 10 years, according to the manufacturers. Waterlox Original combines tung oil and resin technologies to provide superior protection and durability on a variety of wood and non-wood surfaces.
This specialized combination of finishes gives Waterlox Original a clear, rich tone, that can last for many years when it is properly maintained. To receive the most out of your Waterlox Original finish, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and cleaning.
This includes only using gentle, non-abrasive cleaners, a microfiber cloth, and avoiding harsh chemicals. Doing so can help you ensure a long-lasting finish, up to 10 years.
What is the difference between Waterlox sealer and finish?
Waterlox sealers and finishes are both made from tung oil, a natural drying oil that helps seal and protect wood surfaces. The difference between the two lies in the ingredients used and the process of application.
Waterlox sealer is designed to be used as the first coats on new, raw wood surfaces and helps protect against stains and water damage. It can also be used to lighten and add unique amber tones to wood.
Waterlox finish, on the other hand, is designed to be the last coats on a wood surface and creates a hard, lustrous protective layer. The finish is designed to provide an extra layer of protection and color, as well as a beautiful, glossy sheen.
While both products provide protection and color to wood surfaces, they are designed to be applied differently and serve different purposes.
Does tung oil finish darken wood?
Yes, tung oil finish does darken wood. This is because the oil penetrates the wood, and as it dries, it darkens the wood. This is especially noticeable with softwoods like pine, but can be seen on harder woods as well.
The actual darkening process will depend on the type of wood, how many layers of oil are applied, and the length of time that the oil is left on. Further, the color and intensity of the resulting finish will also depend on the type of tung oil used, as each formulation will contain different levels of pigment that can add additional coloring to the surface.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the results of applying a tung oil finish is to test it on a small area of the desired project.
Does Waterlox yellow over time?
Yes, Waterlox has been known to yellow over time when exposed to direct sunlight or intense indoor lighting. The amount of yellowing is determined by the type of finish (tung oil or resin), the species of wood it was applied to, and the amount of sunlight or lighting the surface has been exposed to.
For example, Waterlox Original sealer/finish applied to soft woods such as pine or oak will yellow more quickly than harder woods such as cherry or walnut. To prevent yellowing of the finish, it is important to properly apply the sealer/finish in multiple thin layers and dry the wood thoroughly before application.
Additionally, it can help to mop a small amount of Waterlox Original sealer/finish onto the surface on a regular basis or to finish the surface with a protective wax or polyurethane coating.
Should I sand between coats of Waterlox?
Yes, you should sand between coats of Waterlox for the best finished product. Each coat of sealer should be allowed to dry completely and then lightly sanded with 320-400 grit sandpaper. This will ensure a smoother overall finish free of any brush strokes.
Sanding between coats will also help the product adhere better and build a better looking finish. After sanding, use a tack cloth to remove any dust particles before applying the next coat. It is important to apply successive coats of Waterlox in the same direction you used for the first coat.
How do you maintain a Waterlox finish?
Maintaining a Waterlox finish is relatively easy and can be accomplished with the routine care. First, you should avoid excessive water, but you can clean the surface with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
As long as you ensure that the surface is not sitting in water or wet for long periods of time. You should also remove any spills as soon as you can. As far as preventing scratches and wear, you should use soft cloths, mats, and furniture casters to reduce the impact they have on the finish.
Regular dusting with a soft cloth and wiping down the surface with the same cloth dampened in a mixture of water and ammonia is also recommended. Wax-based cleaners can be used to help protect the surface, but avoid using any silicone-based products, since these can leave a residue that will eventually affect the Waterlox finish.
Lastly, avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbing pads. The occasional use of 0000 steel wool will help to keep the finish looking its best.
How often should I reapply for Waterlox?
It is recommended to reapply Waterlox every two to three months, depending on areas of high traffic and use. Between applications, you can use a light maintenance coat of Waterlox Original Tung Oil Finish to keep the wood looking its best.
For example, if your floor is subjected to heavy foot traffic, you might want to apply a coat of finish every month or two to keep it looking its best. For other areas such as cabinetry, you may be able to wait three or four months before reapplying.
Additionally, if the finish ever becomes scratched, nicked, or otherwise damaged, you can apply one to two coats of Waterlox Original Tung Oil Finish to the affected area only rather than applying a new coat to the entire floor or surface.
Is Waterlox scratch resistant?
No, Waterlox is not scratch resistant. Waterlox is a type of sealant that is commonly used to provide a protective finish to wood surfaces. It is designed to be durable and protect the wood from water, humidity, and other corrosive elements.
However, Waterlox does not provide a scratch-resistant finish. As such, the surface needs to be cared for properly to ensure it remains looking good. Cleaning the surface using a soft cloth with a mild detergent can help to reduce the risk of scratches being caused.
Additionally, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and rough brushes on the surface. If the surface does become scratched or damaged, it will need to be sanded down and refinished.
How long should Waterlox dry between coats?
Waterlox needs to dry thoroughly between coats in order to adhere to the wood properly and achieve the desired finish. Generally, it is recommended to wait a minimum of 24 hours after applying each coat before applying the next.
If a piece of furniture is 3/4 inch thick or thicker, it is wise to wait at least 48 hours after each coat has been applied. For very thick pieces, as in a table top, one to two weeks of drying time is suggested in between coats.
In general, it is advised to wait at least one month before the next coat of Waterlox. If temperatures are higher than 80 °F, it is recommended to wait longer between coats. It is also best to wait until each coat of Waterlox has completely dried before sanding.
How long will tung oil finish last?
Tung oil finish is known for its durability and longevity, and when applied and maintained properly, it can last for several years. The finish penetrates into the wood, creating a hard, protective layer that prevents moisture from getting in and damaging the wood.
Because tung oil is non-toxic and all-natural, it will not produce toxic fumes or odors when it is applied. However, it will require occasional maintenance, such as re-coating to keep its shine and protection, especially in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight or other harsh elements.
With proper maintenance, tung oil finish can remain effective for up to five years on interior surfaces and between two and three years on exterior surfaces.
How long does it take Waterlox to dry to the touch?
Waterlox generally takes 24 hours to dry to the touch. Generally, it takes 4-7 days for it to reach it’s full hardness and cure. The drying time may be modified slightly depending on conditions such as climate, temperature, and humidity.
Additionally, dry time may be extended if more than two coats of Waterlox are applied.
Can you use Waterlox over stained wood?
Yes, you can use Waterlox over stained wood. The best way to go about this is to first make sure the stained wood is clean and dry. If there is any residue on the wood, use a rag dampened with denatured alcohol to remove it before you begin.
After that, you can apply a coat of Waterlox sealer. Wait for it to dry and lightly sand it to give the surface a smooth finish. Once it is ready, apply a couple of coats of the Waterlox finish, allowing it to dry in between coats.
This will give your stained wood a beautiful, UV-resistant finish that will last for years.
What is Waterlox finish?
Waterlox is a type of wood finish that is commonly used to protect wood floors, furniture, and cabinets. It is a combination of tung oil and resin, and can be found in both satin and gloss finishes. Waterlox is an ideal finish for wood items because it is non-toxic and low VOC, so it won’t harm the environment in your home.
It is also extremely durable and long-lasting, ensuring that furniture and floors look great for years to come. When applied correctly, Waterlox provides a beautiful and durable finish that is both water-resistant and resistant to highlights caused by light and heat.
Waterlox is also easy to apply and maintain; it just needs to be reapplied to worn areas every one to three years, depending on the use. Additionally, Waterlox has impeccable sealability characteristics; it seals and binds with a chemical reaction to create an incredibly hard, waterproof surface.
What product is comparable to Waterlox?
Waterlox is a unique product that provides a beautiful hand-rubbed, protective finish from 100% Tung oil. It is not just a sealer, but a penetrating finish hardener that also provides vibrant colors and ultraviolet protection.
While there are a few other tung oil-based products that offer some similar results, most don’t provide the same level of protection offered by Waterlox. A product that is comparable to Waterlox is the Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish.
This product contains 100% tung oil, and provides the same type of color enhancement and protection as Waterlox. It can also be used on woods that are too porous to be sealed with a standard polyurethane.
However, it is best to use this product first, and then follow up with a coat of Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish to ensure full protection of the wood. Additionally, Waterlox also offers a Marine finish that is especially designed for use on wooden boat decks and furniture.
This Marine finish provides a highly durable and protective finish to help protect against damage from ultraviolet light, water, and mildew.