Finishing aromatic cedar -- don't do it!
Is it possible to finish a cedar ceiling, yet preserve the color and aroma? March 20, 2001
Question
What type of finish should be used on an aromatic cedar ceiling? I want it to keep a good smell and reddish color.
Forum Responses
If the cedar is sealed or finished, you will be "sealing in" the cedar aroma. You can try a dye stain. The dyes are sold as either water or alcohol dissolvable.
Cedar does not stain or dye well--the results are uneven at best.
You could oil it for a more natural look. A UV protecting water white lacquer would be best for the color, but would definitely seal in the smell.
Aromatic cedar should not be finished. Cedar will last 100 years outside in the elements. Your ceiling should be safe.
The comments below were added after this Forum discussion was archived as a Knowledge Base article (add your comment).
Comment from contributor A:
I have used clear semi-satin polymers on the outside of cedar chests. This gives me the sheen and protection that polymer gives. On the inside, apply nothing. My father-in-law used boiled linseed oil on the outside of my wife's cedar chest over 40 years ago. It is bare on the inside. It stills has the cedar smell. I have read that an occassional light sanding will strengthen the odor. I have never done it for fear of wearing the walls thin.
Would you like to add information to this article?
Interested in writing or submitting an article?
Have a question about this article?
Have you reviewed the related Knowledge Base areas below?
KnowledgeBase: Finishing
KnowledgeBase: Lumber and Plywood
KnowledgeBase: Wood Engineering: Wood Properties
KnowledgeBase: Woodworking Miscellaneous
KnowledgeBase: Woodworking Miscellaneous: Woodworking
KnowledgeBase: Knowledge Base
Would you like to add information to this article? ...
Click Here
If you have a question regarding a Knowledge Base article, your best chance at uncovering an answer is to search the entire Knowledge Base for related articles or to post your question at the appropriate WOODWEB Forum. Before posting your message, be sure to review our Forum Guidelines.
Questions entered in the Knowledge Base Article comment form will not generate responses! A list of WOODWEB Forums can be found at WOODWEB's Site Map.
When you post your question at the Forum, be sure to include references to the Knowledge Base article that inspired your question. The more information you provide with your question, the better your chances are of receiving responses.
Return to beginning of article.
|
