Oak Desk - What Finish?

Wassa123

Hi all,

Essentially I've ordered a 2m x 1m x 4cm unfinished oak breakfast bar which I intend to use as a desk surface in an office.

I've heard of varnish, wax, danish oil, tung oil - but can't seem to find the pros/cons of each one and I'm not sure what one to use.

On the desk would be a keyboard and mouse which should be on essentially a large wide mouse mat, so hopefully not a lot of wear.

I mainly use a desktop, but in rare occasions there would be a laptop on it. I don't drink tea/coffee so only have to think about the odd heat from the occasional laptop.

Maybe a glass of soft drink or two which might have condensation on it.

Any suggestions?

Reece_

Really for what you describe any finish would do, a varnish would be lower maintenance than the rest, with wax or oil you'll want to give it a top up coat every now and then.
I'm a big fan of oil finishes though, and if you go for something like an osmo polyx floor oil, it will be extremely hard wearing and require little maintenace. Even with a wax or varnish I'd recommend going for the floor finish versions, they'll be tougher and less likely to crack and craze over time with the movement of the wood.
Whatever finish you use though, make sure to finish the underside and all edges, if the underside isn't sealed up the same as the top you risk it bowing and cracking over time.

Le_Kirk

Is that oil, polish or varnish I smell? Or maybe it is spiced ham!

Norman_Castle

TedTheTopCat wrote: »

Yes, you will get a nice finish from using Osmo Polyx Oils or Junckers Rustic Oil. If you need any advice give the guys at zzzzzzzzzzzz

More spam than Monty Python.

Chrishazle

My personal choice is Liberon Finishing Oil, have used it on a number of solid oak pieces I've made (hi-fi cabinet, hallway settle, fireplace surround, picture frames etc). Needs a number of coats, "nibbed off" (0000 grade wire wool then tack cloth) between coats, 3 minimum.

ainsleythomas

Liberon Finishing Oil for oak and pine furniture is best. They will give a great finishing specially for oak furniture.



Oak Expert, Not Spammer
merridale-furnishers.co.uk