Use and Care Manual

OIL FINISH WOOD CARE GUIDE
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY, IT WILL HELP YOU TO MAINTAIN YOUR FURNITURE
This furniture has been made from seasoned hard wood and has already been oiled prior to
packaging. Wood is a natural material and its appearance will change when exposed to the elements;
surface splits and checking may appear, particularly on the end grain and to a lesser extent on the
surface within a few weeks if left exposed to the elements. This is normal for close-grained hard
woods. The furniture is designed with this in mind to remain strong and durable. If left exposed to the
weather your furniture will turn a silver grayish color, the exact color will depend on the environment;
for example, dark spots may occur if the furniture is placed in a shady location under a tree. To help
preserve the color cover the furniture with a garden furniture cover when not in use. Wood expands
and contracts with changes in relative humidity, to prevent over drying and excessive cracking do not
store in a heated place.
To maintain the original timber color and to keep your surface in pristine condition we recommend
applying an oil base penetrating finish such as deck stain which is available at most wood product
retailers. We DO NOT recommend surface coatings such as sealers, varnishes or water base
products. If your furniture is in a fully exposed environment, we recommend re-coating 2 times per
year. In a semi-covered environment (e.g. shade, covered patio or similar) we recommend coating
once per year. Also, by applying the oil/stain before the wood begins to turn the characteristic
silver/gray color following these simple instructions may lengthen the interval between recoating.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
1. Cover the floor area with a suitable liquid resistant ground sheet to contain dust, dirt or spills.
2. Use suitable protective clothing, i.e. rubber gloves, apron etc.
3. Check and retighten all furniture hardware
4. Inspect the condition of all wood surfaces. The silver/gray color indicates the natural oxidation
of the wood and may be accompanied by fine surface splits or checking. This is evidence of
the wood’s natural protection acting like our outer skin. Consequently, the natural weathered
surface is only skin deep and the original color reappears when new wood is exposed.
5. To return the wood to its original color we recommend cleaning the surface of dirt, bird
droppings, tree sap, grease etc. Scrub or brush with a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
Ensure the wood surface is completely dry before finishing.
6. DO NOT USE STEEL WOOL as the fine particles may result in dark rusty blotching.
APPLYING THE OIL FINISH
7. After opening can of oil/stain stir thoroughly to produce an even consistency. We recommend
the use of a lint free cloth or small brush suitable for oil base finishes.
8. Apply oil/stain evenly to all wood surfaces avoiding the oil/stain to pool. When finished, wipe
off any runs or excess oil/stain. (Avoid applying too much oil/stain as a thin coat will give
ample protection.) Any excess oil/stain may be cleaned with Mineral Spirits or Turpentine.
9. Allow appx. 48 hours for oil/stain to dry completely. Before use wipe away any residue using a
lint free cloth and a household furniture polish. A buffing action may produce a slightly
polished surface.
Customer Service: Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 8:00 pm EST
Jack-Post Corp.
1-800-800-4950
[e-mail]
ZI-4111 Rev E 2/19