Finish for Iroko Windows - Linseed Oil?

[benmc]

All

I know that Pistoneheads is the source of all knowledge and I am looking for some advice on how to finish hardwood windows.

We moved into our house about 5 months ago. When we bought it we knew the windows needed repainting.

We have done some investigation and the windows are all solid hand made Iroko. So basically very nice windows. They are also currently painted in some dark brown stain that is peeling off and not looking great.

So I think we would like to Oil them instead, this should bring out their natural color and from what I have read be quite easy to refinish every couple of years without fully rubbing down etc.

I have looked at Linseed Oil but I am not sure this is the right choice. I have heard it can be a breeding ground for mildew and this will cause the windows to turn black over time.

Any advice?

Regards
Ben

[Jon C]

Jalopuu Akkuna- pellavansiemen nafta

HTH

Edited by Jon C on Monday 1st September 19:03

[FROSTYR1]

Im a Carpenter and Joiner,and I would suggest you try Rustins Danish Oil instead of Linseed Oil.

It gives a lovely finish and looks nice on Iroko timber. http://www.cglass.co.uk/rustins-danish-oil-pr-1665...

[dealmaker]

I have some solid Iroko gates and over the years have had some horrendous issues in trying to keep the stain on them. They have been stained since new with Sadolin Wood Stain - but each year it seems to come off in sheets. So each year they are sanded down - wiped over with white spirit and re-stained.

A pal of mine reckons it's because Iroko is such an "oily" wood - that the stain isn't adhering properly or is being undermined by new oil/resin seepage from the wood.

Anyone have any ideas on how to make the stain either stay on, or sink itno the surface and get a good "key".

Or should I try stripping them right back and "oiling" them??

[benmc]

This is the reply I have had from a Linseed Oil Specalist


The stain that you mention on the windows will need to be removed, ideally using a heat gun and scraper. We do not recommend that you use and chemical strippers as this will contaminate our products when applied over the top.

As Iroko is an oily tropical hardwood you will not need to apply the initial coat of warmed raw linseed oil. Instead to achieve the natural finish that you are seeking we would suggest applying 2 coats of our linseed oil wax. You need to be aware that this may slightly colour the timber so applying it on a small area first would be recommended.

With regards to the linseed oil, the linseed oil will stop any mould and fungal growth from appearing on the timbers.

Regards,
David Ingram
Holkham Linseed Paints