I'm working on a project where I'm incorporating white oak boards as baffles for my kitchen range hood. I've tried some linseed oil samples, and my wife really liked the color. However, I'm wondering if there's a better finishing option than linseed oil that will hold up better, especially since this area will need regular cleaning and is prone to cooking grease. Any suggestions for finishes or clear coats?
2 Answers
Linseed oil is nice, but it's not the toughest finish out there and isn't very water-resistant. If you like the color of the linseed, you could go ahead and apply it, let it cure completely, then top it with a more durable finish. I'd recommend looking into a 2k acrylic or a two-part spray finish. They’re tough and chemical-resistant, but just make sure to use proper PPE when applying since they can contain isocyanate catalysts.
I’d go for a high-quality oil-based polyurethane, like General Finishes Arm-R-Seal. I have a dining table made from old barn boards finished with something like that, and it has held up really well for five years. We've spilled stuff on it and used it for hot and cold drinks without coasters, and it's still in great shape. Just a little wear, but nothing major. I think it could work perfectly for your range hood too!