Our top suggestions for products and care:

UNFINISHED:

There are a number of raw material projects or Custom WOW Wall Cladding applications that require no finish at all. To care for unfinished material we recommend avoiding standing water and removing dust as needed. When removing dust after installation, use a vacuum so that you can avoid rags that can snag on textured surfaces. If your reclaimed lumber needs to have dirt removed prior to installation, we suggest a synthetic bristle brush to remove surface dirt, not metal brushes or water which can alter the patina.

WATER BASED POLYURETHANE:

Water based polyurethane is an excellent finish option for residential tables, shelves, or countertops that will be getting regular use. The finish adds a light shine, and does not significantly impact the original color of the wood. We recommend Deft Water Based Polyurethane in a matte finish. To care for wood treated with polyurethane, avoid standing water on the surface and remove dust as needed. To remove dust, we recommend applying a dust removal product such as Endust directly to a clean rag, and wiping the surface with a light and even treatment.

OSMO POLYX OIL FINISH:

OSMO is a popular wax based finish option for residential tables shelves, mantels and architectural design elements. OSMO creates a warm satin surface that darkens the color of the wood and brings out texture variation. To care for wood treated with OSMO, avoid standing water on the surface and remove dust as needed. To remove dust, we recommend applying a dust removal product such as Endust directly to a clean rag, and wiping the surface with a light and even treatment. Additionally, if scratched, you can buff out the surface and apply a fresh coat of OSMO without doing a complete re-finish.

MINERAL OIL or BOARD BUTTER:

For food-grade surfaces such as cutting boards, cheese boards or prep countertops we recommend mineral oil, butcher block oil or specialty board butters by companies like Pumice & Stone. We suggest cleaning your food-grade surfaces with soap and water between use, making sure to remove any excess standing water when done, and re-oiling as needed throughout the life of the piece.

LACQUER:

Restaurant grade lacquer is a robust finish option for pieces that will be receiving high frequency wipe downs or exposure to consistent moisture. Lacquer gives pieces a light shine, does not significantly impact the original color of the wood and has a harder finish than our other options. Lacquer is applied through a spray application and requires specialized tools + ventilation. To care for wood treated with lacquer, avoid standing water on the surface and remove dust as needed. To remove dust, we recommend applying a dust removal product such as Endust directly to a clean rag, and wiping the surface with a light and even treatment.