By definition, Waterlox Original Tung oil finishes are “phenolic
modified Tung oil-based varnishes”. By design, our original formulas are
low solids solutions (meaning high solvent percentages) engineered to
offer the most desirable combination of wood penetrating and protective
film build. Without revealing the exact nature of our proprietary
formulas, we can disclose that the solids portion of these finishes is
made up of 85% Tung oil and 15% resin, rosin and driers.
Tung
oil is made from pressed seeds from the nut of the tung tree. The tung
tree, indigenous to China, is named for its heart-shaped leaves
because “tung” is Chinese for “heart.” Chinese merchants used tung
oil in the 14th century to waterproof and protect wooden ships from the
eroding powers of the sea. When applied, rich tung oil penetrates deep
into the pores of the wood to provide a tough, highly water-resistant
finish that never loses elasticity and does not darken with age.
Waterlox has been using tung oil as the base for its wood finishes since 1910 because Tung oil is…
- Completely natural and renewable – comes from the nut of the tung tree
- Time-tested – used as long ago as the 14th century to waterproof Chinese ships
- The best penetrating drying oil available – its unique ability to wet the surface allows it to penetrate even the densest woods
- Remains elastic – moves with wood during the changes of seasons