What affordable timber oil or varnish for Blackbutt?

[Herrenovacation]

I have bought a large slab of blackbutt for an upcoming project and I would like to get an idea of the best but also affordable Timber Oil or Varnish to project it from the weather, including rot and mould. 

I don't mind something that might make it slightly darker but I quite like the natural colour and pattern.so something more natural would be best. 

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @Herrenovacation,

In terms of weather protection, an exterior grade varnish would be a better option as it fully encapsulates the timber with a waterproof film. I have used this Bondall Satin Monocel Gold Marine Clear Timber Varnish on some beautiful silky oak timber and can say I am a big fan of how it turned out. There was a very minor darkening of the timber, but that would be expected with all oils and varnishes.

If you wanted a slightly more natural look and feel to the timber, at the expense of a bit of weather resistance, a natural oil like this DIGGERS™ Timber Oil Raw Concentrate would be a good option on the lower end in terms of cost, with this Timber Protect Water Based Decking Oil being a slight step up in terms of cost and this Cabots Aquadeck Natural Exterior Decking Oil being what I would usually recommend. 

Personally, I would go with the varnish instead of oil, as oil will require regular reapplications to keep the slab protected. If you wanted to use an oil, any of the options mentioned would fit the description.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Herrenovacation]

Thank you @JacobZ 

Some really helpful information. 

How would a varnish go on a raw/live edge of the slab? Im worried it might be too thick. 

[EricL]

Hello @Herrenovacation 

Sometimes its unavoidable due to the irregular surface of a live edge a thicker coat might need to be applied. Perhaps if you used a smaller finer brush, you'll be able to apply a more conservative coating.

Eric