Rubio Monocoat Hardwax Oil is a plant-based wood stain and finish. One coat of this product preserves your wood project or timber slab giving it that natural look.
You have probably heard of hardwax oil brands such as Rubio Monocoat. This hardwax oil is used for all types of wood projects, including timber furniture made from timber slabs and available in our online shop.
But are all hardwax oil products alike? Before you begin searching, it pays to understand the pros and cons of what hardwax oil can do for your project.
Advantages of Rubio Monocoat Hardwax Oil
For many woodworkers, the benefits of using hardwax oil begin with how it enhances the wood. The oil penetrates the surface, highlights the natural timber grain and variations of colour that make the wood truly stand out.
What you get is a warm, rich appearance that few other types of finishes can hope to reach.
In addition, you can better control the type of finish you want from satin down to matte. Therefore, you get a natural timber finish that enhances the wood in a way that polyurethane-based finishes cannot achieve.
Other benefits include the following.
- Easy to Apply
- Water Resistant and Durable
- Simple to Repair
- Low in Volatile Organic Compounds
Hardwax oil from brands such as Rubio Monocoat are environmentally friendly and last a long time.
However,despite all the advantages there are some issues as well.
Rubio Monocoat Hardwax Oil Disadvantages
Perhaps the biggest issue is that hardwax oil takes a long time to dry and properly cure. When you add to that its vulnerability to dust, scratches, and spills when drying. This can be a pain in terms of waiting the seven to ten days to properly cure.
Another disadvantage is that hardwax oil requires regular maintenance and reapplication to keep up the appearance of the wood. Although not excessive, you will need to reapply the hardwax oil more frequently compared to other types of finishes.
Additional issues include the following.
- Higher Cost of the Product
- Limited Protection Against Chemicals and Heat
- Not Ideal for Certain Types of Furniture
Outdoor furniture for example that is more exposed to chemicals and heat is not a good candidate for hardwax oil. But if you decide that this product is right for you, then you need to apply it the right way.
Application of Rubio Monocoat
Set up outdoors or in a clean, well-ventilated area. Any rags you use should be disposed of afterwards.
First, you will want to sand and clean the wood, particularly if you are working with timber slabs. Wipe the surface clean, then use sandpaper and progress to the finer grits so the surface is prepared.
Remove all dust with a vacuum or cloth.
Next, apply a thin, even coat of the Rubio Monocoat hardwax oil to the surface. Avoid thick coats as that may lead to a sticky finish.
Keep applying thin coats using a lint-free cloth and a scotch brite pad to rub it into the surface. For larger projects, work in smaller sections at first.
Once applied, you should allow for proper drying and curing time. Adhere to the instructions on the label which may take up to a week or longer to fully cure. The maintenance instructions must be followed to maintain the wood’s appearance over time.
Hardwax oil products like Rubio Monocoat offer a versatile and natural choice for wood projects. Particularly timber slabs as it helps bring out its beauty.
This is why Timber Slab Warehouse are the legends of timber furniture and wookwork projects. We have the knowledge and expertise to talk you through the procedure of the application of the Rubio Monocoat Hardwax Oil.
Contact the team with any questions or call on 0415 811 905.
