Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/non-toxic finish

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Expert: - 4/12/2010


Question
Happened to come across your website and thought you might help me. I am making tables to garden in (4'X 4'X 3'H) and need a finish that is non-toxic. My first and only table is cedar but cost is an issue so I went to just pine. I saw you mention tung oil but how will it hold up outdoors? Any other suggestions? Thank you

Answer
Hi Janet
Nice to hear from you.
Tung oil is not suitable for this application.
What about something like Thompsons Water Seal. Never heard it was toxic and its widely used to protect wood outdoors.
Janet with any outdoor wood, keeping the moisture out is key so whatever you use you will have to recoat every few years.
Cedar is wonderful stuff as you already know but I hear you about the cost.
I have a small deck of cedar that is approaching its 25th birthday LOL. But it gets treated every few years.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks

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Eileen Cronk

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Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

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I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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