Hello Judy,

Thank you for reaching out and for reading my article on using tung oil on cedar. It’s wonderful that you’re incorporating reclaimed cedar posts into your home for that rustic touch. Tung oil is indeed a great choice for cedar, especially if you’re looking to preserve its natural appearance while providing protection.

Applying Tung Oil to Reclaimed Cedar Posts:
1. Preparation:
Since the posts are rough and you want to maintain their rustic look, extensive sanding isn’t necessary. However, it’s still a good idea to do a light cleaning to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. A gentle brush-off or a wipe-down with a damp cloth can be sufficient. Allow the wood to dry completely before applying the oil.

2. Choosing the Tung Oil:
There are two types of tung oil available – pure tung oil and tung oil finishes (often mixed with other ingredients to aid in drying). Pure tung oil penetrates deeply and is excellent for preserving the natural look of the wood. Tung oil finishes are easier to apply and dry faster but might not penetrate as deeply. For your reclaimed cedar posts, pure tung oil might be more suitable if you’re okay with longer drying times and want maximum preservation.

3. Dilution:
For the first coat, diluting the tung oil can help it penetrate more deeply into the cedar. A common method is to mix the tung oil with a solvent like mineral spirits or turpentine in a 50/50 ratio. This step is especially helpful for rough, porous surfaces.

4. Application:
Apply the tung oil using a brush or a clean, lint-free rag. Given the rough texture of your posts, a brush might be more effective in getting the oil into all the crevices. Work in manageable sections, applying the oil liberally. Allow the oil to penetrate for about 20-30 minutes, then wipe off any excess oil with a clean rag. This step is crucial as any unabsorbed oil can become sticky.

5. Subsequent Coats:
After the first diluted coat, you can apply one or two more coats of undiluted tung oil for additional protection. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. The drying time can vary depending on the temperature and humidity, typically ranging from a few days to a week.

6. Curing Time:
Tung oil takes time to cure. It’s important to wait until it’s fully cured before handling the posts extensively. This process can take a few weeks.

7. Maintenance:
Tung oil finishes are relatively easy to maintain. You can reapply a coat as needed, typically every few years, depending on the wear and environmental conditions.

In conclusion, tung oil is a suitable choice for your cedar posts, especially for maintaining a natural, rustic look. It enhances the wood’s grain and provides protection without creating a glossy or artificial finish. Remember that patience is key with tung oil, both in terms of application and waiting for it to dry and cure.

If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to ask. Best of luck with your project!

Best Regards,
Walter