Using Oil On Acacia Wood? (5 Quick Tips You Should Know)
Acacia wood is obtained from Acacia trees, which grow in Africa, Asia, Australia, and other tropical regions.
In most cases, Acacia wood is used in outdoor furniture because of its natural ability to withstand any weather condition and bug attack.
Acacia belongs to the hardwood category, which is very useful for beams, building construction, platforms, flooring, and high-end furniture. While the wood lasts for more than two decades, one can increase the longevity using some oil.
An average Acacia wood or furniture can last for about 20-30 years. However, the life span of the furniture could be drastically reduced if it’s not protected.
Below is an overview of some oil and protective materials that you can use to increase the longevity and durability of your Acacia furniture.
However, it is vital to mention that some of the finishes, varnishes, and oils outlined below must be used in various combinations for maximum effectiveness.
Can You Use Teak Oil On Acacia Wood?
Acacia wood does not do well if left untreated. It grays out quickly due to exposure to UV rays from sunlight.
Treating Acacia with teak oil protects the wood from the direct impact of water and other natural occurrences like humidity and due. Teak oil, a product of linseed or tung, works well with furniture surfaces made from acacia wood.
It slows down the graying process and gives it a stunning appearance.
To apply teak oil to your acacia wood, use a soft cloth or a medium-sized paintbrush to work an amount of teak oil from one end of the surface to the other.
It is best practice to go along with the grains of the wood to create a uniform distribution of teak oil across the surface of the wood. Ensure that the surface is dry before applying teak oil to prevent cracks or shrinks.
However, if you will use Acacia wood for outdoor furniture and construction, teak oil alone would not provide sufficient protection from the impact of weather.
You will need another oil to enhance the protective effect.
Even though it allows for some degree of protection, there is a need to apply several layers of teak oil to enhance the protection. A combination of teak oil and other sealers would also improve durability and safety.
One of the advantages that teak oil provides to wood surfaces is the unique luster and beauty it adds and its ability to ward off UV rays from the sun.
You also get a waterproof effect to protect the surface from fluid spillage and water.
Can You Use Mineral Oil On Acacia Wood?
Applying mineral oil on acacia wood is a great idea: mainly if the wood is used for interior furniture. Mineral oil is a safe, non-toxic finish commonly used on furniture surfaces within the house, offices, or other places.
It is advisable to apply mineral oil on dried surfaces for effectiveness.
A dry surface absorbs more oil and ensures better protection. When the surface of the wood is wet, the saturation within the wood prevents it from absorbing sufficient oil.
Also, it contaminates the oil and could trigger rancidity.
Therefore, before applying mineral oil on your acacia wood surface, it is essential to dry the wood and keep it clean.
To apply mineral oil, dust the wood surface and remove vanishes from the surface. Use mild sandpaper to clean off all stains and debris on the surface.
Allow the surface to dry for a while and apply the oil on a clean, soft cloth.
Work your way through the surface, following the grain of the wood. Allow the oil to seep into the wood and apply another layer of fat. It is advisable to apply up to 4 layers of oil to get a good result.
Can I Put Polyurethane On Acacia Wood?
Polyurethane finish is used to protect the wood surfaces from harsh weather and impact.
Compared to oil, Polyurethane provides more durable protection to woods. On acacia surfaces, it gives a glossy look and luster that brings out the pattern of its grains.
Applying wood grain filler before putting on layers of Polyurethane is a good practice. It helps create a smooth surface that reflects light uniformly.
It is best to allow the acacia wood or furniture to dry up before applying Polyurethane. It would help prevent cracks or shrinking.
To apply polyurethane, use a dry soft paintbrush. Apply an even distribution of Polyurethane across the surface of the wood following the grain of the wood.
To achieve a single, even stroke, drag a single brush stroke as long as it can go. It would create uniformity across the surface.
Can You Use A Teak Sealer On Acacia Wood?
Teak sealers help retain the oil content of the wood.
The action of a sealer on acacia wood drastically slows down the graying process of the wood. Teak Sealer is most effective in acacia wood used in fencing, outdoor furniture, and other functions.
Unlike teak oil, there is no need to reapply sealers constantly.
But there is a need to reapply once in a while, probably every year. Once applied, it protects the wood for as long as possible.
Sealing your Acacia with a teak sealer helps keep the bugs and pests at bay.
The advantage of sealers on your acacia wood is the protection it gives it from moisture, due, humidity and rainfall. It acts as a durable waterproof coat that keeps water from getting into the furniture even if it’s kept outdoors throughout its life span.
Can You Use Lemon Oil On Acacia Wood?
Acacia wood does well with lemon oil.
Lemon oil is extracted from lemon peels through steam extraction. The oil gives a glowing luster to acacia wood, and it is most effective for interior furniture.
It protects the wood from shrinking and cracking. Lemon oil also acts as a waterproof layer to keep water and humidity from seeping into the wood.
One advantage of lemon oil on wood surfaces is the lemon fragrance it adds to it.
Most people adopt lemon oil for this purpose.
It is important to emphasize that lemon oil is not ideal for furniture or acacia wood intended for outdoor use. Lemon oil provides limited protection to the furniture surfaces.
Wrapping Up
Acacia wood responds well to most types of finishes.
However, the purpose of the furniture should determine the kind of oil, vanishes, or sealer you choose.
A critical point is that all finishing must be applied when the wood is dry. It would give enough room for the finishing to seep into the wood and provide adequate protection for the wood.
Finishing is not only for the sake of protection. It also creates a layer of beauty and luster on the surface of the wood, making it attractive and durable.