Yes, old floor boards. When we have ripped off the tongue/groove we will have 1x4s, 1x6s, and 1x8s, it just started it's life as a floor. (reclaimed wood)
What kind of finish would you suggest? I have only used tung oil, poly acrylic and polyeurathane when finishing anything we have made. I just thought since this was such 'special' wood we would treat it differently. I like the way the tung oil makes the grain 'pop'. And I don't mind waiting for coats to dry, I knew there was a day between coats, but since we are building doors ourselves I will have plenty of time to finish a door as hubby makes another. Can I put poly over tung oil? Or, what can I put over tung oil to make it work?
S

Tung oil will be a good start. As any penetrating oil, it will really bring out the grain. Tung oil however never builds to a surface finish, and always dries matte. No-gloss is not going to emphasize the huge character that wormy chestnut has. I would recommend adding a wiping varnish to the finish in the last two coats. Maybe something in a wipe-on satin poly. As always, try a sample.
Casey

Thank You!
Waterlox or Formby's?
S

I am not sure what you like about the looks of the Tung oil, but since you have it now, I'd go ahead and use it. Otherwise, I'd suggest an application of boiled linseed oil instead. Much cheaper and less finicky. I have seen both on the same wood, side by side, and could not tell the difference. If you do use the tung oil, be sure to let it cure thoroughly, at least a week.

Then apply a 2-3 coats of brushed on varnish or 4-6 coats of wiped on varnish, sanding in between. Waterlox would be a good choice. Formby's is a brand name, not a specific product. Their "Tung Oil Finish" is simply an alkyd wiping varnish (not tung oil).

I am not married to the tung oil idea, I just happened to have it on hand. I have the Tung Oil because I am going to use it as a sealer on my concrete countertops. I have never used BLO before. I'll have to pick some up and try it out. Does it keep darkening over the years? And how many coats? Can I put it on with my hand like the tung oil?
Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it.
S

If you are going to use BLO, apply it heavy, smear it around and wipe off the excess after 30 minutes. One application is enough. Let it cure for a couple of days, then proceed with your oil-based varnish.

I can't say what it will do to chestnut as it's not a wood I've worked with. I know it significantly (temporarily) darkens walnut and it adds quite a bit of richness to cherry.

With BLO, I always dilute with mineral spirits and add "japan dryer" to make it cure faster. IMO Tung oil is probably all-around better than BLO for cabinet work.
Casey

Thanks to everyone for all their advice. We go pick up our wood tomorrow. I am going to try many different sample pieces. I have General Finishes Arm R Seal to try on a piece and see how it turns out(with and without 50/50 tung oil/mineral spirits underneath). It is suppose to be a good finish, like a Waterlox only better. We shall see....
S

hi-

We are about to embark on building a dining room table with reclaimed chestnut. Can you please let us know what final finishes you chose- the steps, and if possible include some photos? That would be very helpful!

Kathryn Schweier

Been using Wormy Chesnutt for years and I personally think Osmo works Great . A little goes a long way. A Little Goes A Looong Ways.

I have a beautiful kitchen island with Chestnut! How do I polish it? Any suggestions?