How to Care for Outdoor Timber

Outdoor timber is constantly exposed to sun, moisture, and temperature changes. Regular maintenance with a quality timber oil helps protect the wood, maintain its appearance, and extend its life.

Three excellent natural oil options are Gilly's Alfresco Timber Oil, Gilly's Tung Oil or Gilly's Tung Oil/CitrusThin. Each penetrate the timber to nourish the wood and provide water repellency, however they each have their differences. Read on to find which one is the best option for you.

 

Outdoor Timber Examples:

  • Tables, bench tops and chairs.
  • Cubby houses, playgrounds and mud kitchens.
  • Garden beds, stakes, lattice and chicken pens.
  • Window sills + frames and door frames.

Step 1 – Prepare the Timber

 

Before applying any oil finish:

  • Clean the timber surface thoroughly to remove dirt, mould, or old coatings.
  • Lightly sand the surface if needed to open the grain and improve oil penetration.
  • Ensure the timber is dry before application.
  • Proper preparation helps the oil penetrate evenly and produce the best protective finish.

Option 1: Alfresco Timber Oil – Best for Outdoor Protection

 

View Alfresco Timber Oil

Alfresco Timber Oil is specifically designed for outdoor timber and furniture. The formula is built around natural oils such as tung oil and is formulated to protect timber from the elements.

 

Why it’s ideal for outdoor use:

  • UV protection to help timber resist sun damage in harsh Australian conditions.
  • Water repellency to help prevent moisture damage.
  • Nourishes dry timber and restores weathered surfaces.
  • Suitable for alfresco areas, verandas, outdoor furniture, and window frames.
  • Because of the added UV protection, Alfresco Timber Oil is generally the better choice for most outdoor timber.

Option 2: Pure Tung Oil – Best for Food-Safe Finishes

 

View Pure Tung Oil

Pure Tung Oil is a natural finishing oil that penetrates deeply into timber and cures to form a protective, water-resistant finish. Once fully cured it is food safe, making it ideal for items such as outdoor tables used for food preparation, chopping boards, bowls, or utensils.

 

Benefits of Tung Oil:

  • Naturally food-safe once cured.
  • Water resistant and protective.
  • Enhances the timber’s natural appearance.
  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor timber projects.
  • However, pure tung oil does not contain added UV protection, so while it performs well, timber exposed to strong sunlight may require more frequent maintenance.

 

Improving Penetration with Tung Oil

For better penetration into the timber grain, Pure Tung Oil can be diluted:

  • Mix with LoThin to help the oil soak deeper. Using Pure Tung Oil and LoThin is a more economical option than a pre-mixed blend if you are covering a large area. 
  • Or use Tung Oil with Citrus Thin, which is a convenient pre-mixed blend of tung oil and citrus solvent for easier application.

Application Tips

 

  • Apply the oil with a clean cloth or brush along the timber grain.
  • Allow the oil to soak in for several minutes.
  • Wipe off excess oil to prevent a sticky surface.
  • Allow to dry thoroughly before applying additional coats if required.
  • Multiple thin coats provide the best protection and finish.