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Hello, the front step which is the bottom of the door frame is merbau and is oiled with Intergrain Universal Oil. The part on the outside of the door is weathering a bit faster than the inside. It faces West so gets lots of weather. We think its due for a reoil soon and just want to check the process. Does it need a light sand and then the oil application? Do we need to scrub it with the wood cleaner and wipe it down with water such as with a cloth as its not possible to use the sprayer. We cant work out from the instructions on the tin the process to get the best result and also how to have the outside which is more worn from the elements look a bit more like the inside. Thanks
Hello @Carolyn3636
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about re-oiling your front doorstep.
In order for the step to be re-oiled properly the old surface oil must be completely removed by sanding it. Once you are back to timber you can then cover it with the Intergrain 1L Clear Universal Timber Oil.
I'm aware that it says that it can overcoat existing mineral coatings, but it would be safer from a re-coating point of view to sand off all the old coating. If any part of that old coating fails it will take the new coating with it. So, it's better to be safe than sorry.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
What type of sandpaper should we use please? After a light sand can we just wipe it down with a damp cloth? Is that OK and then let dry? We just don't want to over oil it and don't want to redo if it isn't needed. How do we know if it needs reoiling. Thanks
Hello @Carolyn3636
it's best to recoat the entry at least once a year, but if it seems like it has faded badly then you can recoat it earlier. I suggest using 180grit sandpaper to start with in combination with a sanding block, to finish it off use a 240grit to give you a nice smooth surface. Yes, its ok to use a damp cloth to wipe the surface of the timber, just make sure that it is totally dry before you begin to oil it.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
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