How to finish Specrite Beech timber panel?

[Pete112]

Hi there,

I have purchaed thjs timber panel to build a office table. I thought it was simple where I just need to buy table legs and i am done. However, the instruction says that I need to apply a finish to it e.g) wax or oil.

As i am new to all this, I am looking for some guidance to my questions:

1. Should I apply wax or oil? And what is the difference between the two?

2. Is wax or oil really required?

3. Do I need to sand the table top, or can I just apply the wax/oil directly?

4. Does the wax/oil need to be applied to the entire table top (top, bottom, side) or can I get away with not doing the bottom?

4. What is the best application for wax or oil? What sort of brush do I need?

https://www.bunnings.com.au/specrite-1800-x-600-x-18mm-timber-panel-beech-fj-laminated_p0415273?stor...

[JacobZ]

Hi @Pete112,

It won't make a massive difference, but oiling in the direction of the grain is generally recommended. This would mean applying it vertically, running from the bottom of your image to the top.

Don't forget to post an update once it's finished. I'd love to see how it looks when you're done.

Let me know if you have any further questions. 

Jacob

[Pete112]

My timber board have curved after applying the product. Is this expected?

Should I place weights on the corner to keep it flat?

[EricL]

Hello @Pete112 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your beech timber panel.

The timber will start curving if left exposed too long uncoated or unprotected. It's vital that you coat the timber as soon as possible once you remove the plastic covering. I propose using an oil coating over the top and bottom of the panel. The sides must be coated as well to prevent further moisture contamination. 

I suggest putting weights on the corners of the panel to try and straighten it out. An ordinary paint brush will be enough to spread the oil evenly.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Pete112]

I wish I knew this earlier can it be saved or am I going to have to live with a bent table top? I've put about 15kg on each corner but it doesn't seem to be going down or will it take time?

[Pete112]

Should I leave it with weights on, or should I start oiling it asap? The tung oil takes a very long time to apply and afraid it might get worst but I can't put the weight ontop of wet oil right or else it won't dry nicely? What should I do?