Does Tung Oil Go Bad? (5 Proven Techniques to Store It)

For centuries, Tung oil has been regarded as a reliable finish for wood; however, many woodworkers and DIYers wonder: “Does Tung Oil Go Bad?” Answering this query is critical as applying the wrong tung oil to your furnishings may lead to numerous complications that can be challenging to address.

Does Tung Oil Go Bad? Yes, tung oil can go bad if not stored properly. Tung oil can deteriorate over time due to exposure to light, air, and heat, causing it to turn rancid and lose its effectiveness as a finish for wood.

In this piece, we will investigate the tung oil shelf life and survey four surefire strategies to conserve it for extended use. Experienced woodworkers and beginners alike should read on if they are keen to acquire the most favorable results when using tung oil as a wood finishing product. So, peruse through to gain awareness on all that’s necessary to know about storing tung oil.

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What is Tung Oil?

For centuries, the oil extracted from the Tung tree’s seeds has been prized as a finish due to its capacity to penetrate deep into wood grains, providing a natural lustrous sheen and enhancing wood’s aesthetic. Moreover, its protective properties against UV rays and moisture make it an ideal choice for outdoor surfaces. This type of oil is also one suggestions I made in my article How To Make Wood Waterproof Naturally (4 Easy Options)

Tung Oil is a natural and eco-friendly choice for finishes as it is composed of fatty acids and esters. Its application to wood provides a deep, hardening layer that effectively shields against water damage while remaining safe due to the absence of toxic chemicals or solvents.

Tung oil finish offers a variety of benefits for all types of wood surfaces – from furniture to flooring. It is simple to apply with a brush, cloth, or sprayer and can be maintained by reapplying the oil as necessary. Professional woodworkers and hobbyists alike will benefit from the reliable protection and improved aesthetics that tung oil brings to their projects.

The Benefits of Using Tung Oil

Advantages Of Tung oil

• Natural Appearance: The application of tung oil accentuates the gorgeous walnut, intensifying its dark brown shade while drawing attention to its distinctive grain pattern.
• Protection: Applying the Tung oil creates a barrier on the wood to protect against harmful environmental conditions including moisture, UV rays and insect infestations.
• Easy Application: Tung oil is simple to utilize, rendering it an ideal option for beginner woodworkers and DIYers.
• Eco-Friendly: Tung oil, a non-toxic and natural substance, is safe to utilize indoors or when items come into contact with edibles. However, if you want a food safe finish, use linseed oil (Do not use boiled linseed oil, see the differences in this article)
• Durable Finish: Upon reacting with oxygen in the atmosphere, Tung oil hardens to form a resilient protective coating that remains effective for many years.

Disadvantages Of Tung oil

• Time-Consuming: Applying the Tung oil needs to be done in multiple layers, letting each one dry out completely before adding the next.
• Slow Drying Time: Tung oil, with its slow drying period, can be irritating for those who desire a prompt answer.
• Requires Maintenance: To sustain its guard over surfaces, Tung oil demands frequent upkeep, including reapplication and sanding.
• Cost: Tung oil may cost more than other finishes, meaning it is not the best choice for budget-conscious individuals.
• Requires Thinning: Using Tung oil may necessitate thinning it with mineral spirits or varnish, resulting in a higher expenditure and prolonging the task.

Does Tung Oil Go Bad?

Yes, (pure) tung oil can go bad over time. Like any other oil, the tung oil shelf life is limited and can deteriorate over time due to factors such as exposure to light, heat, and air. This can cause the oil to become rancid and produce a foul odor, making it unsuitable for use on wood surfaces.

In order to keep tung oil fresh and prevent spoilage, it is important to store tung oil appropriately. This implies keeping the oil in a dim, dry spot away from direct sunlight and heat and securing it in a container that has an airtight seal.

By abiding by these guidelines for storage, you can boost the life of your tung oil and guarantee that it remains in ideal condition for use on wood surfaces.

How Can You Tell If Tung Oil Is Bad?

There are several signs that can indicate that tung oil has gone bad:

1. Change in Color: Suspicious-looking Tung oil that has spoiled may display a darker hue or discoloration, indicating that it is no longer effective for treating wood furniture.
2. Thickening or Solidification: Tung oil that has gone bad may also become thicker or more solid than it normally is. This is a sign that the oil has degraded and is no longer usable.
3. Decreased Performance: When tung oil has deteriorated, it will not offer the expected level of performance when applied to wood surfaces. This can lead to a dull and inadequate coat of protection.

If you think your tung oil has deteriorated, it is wise to dispose of it and get a new supply. Taking this precaution will make sure your furniture stays safe and looks amazing.

Does Tung Oil Get Rancid?

Exposure to light, heat, and air can cause tung oil to develop a foul smell due to rancidity – a chemical process of deterioration. This is true for all oils and not limited to just tung oil.

The oil’s oxidation leads to rancidity, creating compounds that are detrimental not only to the oil itself but also to wooden surfaces. Consequently, once tung oil has gone bad, it is no longer suitable for finishing wood and must be discarded.

To maximize the shelf-life of tung oil, keep it cool and dry in an airtight container far from direct light and heat. By abiding by these storage instructions, you can ensure that you can keep tung oil fresh and usable for a prolonged duration.

How Long Can Tung Oil Be Stored?

The lifespan of tung oil can vary based on various factors, like the place it is stored and the standard of the product. Nevertheless, when placed in a cool, dry area away from light exposure, tung oil can last for up to two years or even more.

Despite this, it’s important to keep in mind that tung oil can thicken and become unmanageable over time, so for optimal results, use it within 12 months of purchase. Avoid amassing a large stockpile.

Problems Encountered When Applying Bad Tung Oil

To guarantee the best outcomes, it is imperative to verify the age of your tung oil prior to applying it on wood surfaces, as using a poor-quality product can result in numerous issues – some of which are more manageable than others.

If you experience any of the following issues, it may be a sign that your tung oil is bad:

• Sticky Coating: Tung oil usually dries in 8-12 hours, but if it is expired or impure, the coating might stay tacky for weeks. This can be due to incorrect application techniques, not leaving enough time to let the oil cure between layers, or using bad oil. To address this problem, clean the surface with a mineral spirit and start with a new tung oil container, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Uneven Surface: Wrong use of tung oil can lead to an uneven surface. Wipe the area with mineral spirit and then use a new container of tung oil, ensuring that the application is done correctly.
• Blotchiness and Bubbles: When tung oil has spoiled, it may have already hardened and will not penetrate the surface effectively, causing unsightly blemishes and bubbles. Clear away the area with mineral spirit and acquire a new can of tung oil to begin again.

It is vital to inspect the condition of your tung oil and adhere to the recommended application procedures in order to secure optimum outcomes and safeguard your wooden surfaces.

How To Stop Tung Oil from Going Bad?

To guarantee that your oil retains its quality, there are various measures you can take to properly store tung oil:

Keep Tung Oil in A Sealed Air-Free Container

After your first application of tung oil, make sure to secure the lid firmly and avoid any outside air from entering. External elements like moisture and other compounds can corrode the tung oil as it dries out and solidifies due to oxidation, so ensure a tight closure for prolonged storage lasting up to 5 years without contamination issues.

In order to guarantee the best results while you apply this type of oil to wood surfaces, it is essential to verify the age of the product. Using expired or impure tung oil can cause a variety of issues ranging from sticky coatings, to uneven surfaces and blotchiness, which I have discussed earlier in this article.

Store Tung Oil in a Cool, Dry Place

Store tung oil in a cool, dry area far from sources of heat. An ideal spot for storing the oil would be a cool pantry or cellar.

Pour it Into a Smaller Container

By having a large container of tung oil, consider transferring some into a smaller vessel in order to diminish the amount of air inside. This will restrain the oxygen from touching the oil and causing oxidation.

Remove Air From the Tung Oil Can

Carefully crush the corners of the tung oil can to raise the level of oil in it and prevent excessive amounts of air from entering. Doing this correctly ensures that the container looks nearly full and reduces the amount of air inside.

Does Tung Oil Go Bad When Stored in Dark?

Keeping tung oil out of direct light is an effective way to inhibit oxidation and prolong its freshness, however it must still be kept in a sealed, airtight container in a cool and dry area to stave off spoilage.

How Long Does Tung Oil Last on Wood?

For optimal protection and beauty, tung oil must be applied to your woodwork or furniture annually. If left bad, the oil layers will no longer provide a barrier against moisture and other elements, causing the wood to rot.

Unfortunately, once this damage has been done, tung oil cannot be used to undo it- you must use special products like Flex seal. In addition, keep furniture with tung oil surfaces clean by wiping down regularly with lint-free cloths; dirt, dust, grease and other chemicals can reduce the longevity of the tung oil.

How Long Does Tung Oil Last Outdoors?

To prolong the life of outdoor furniture and safeguard it against moisture, insects, temperature variations, rot, and other elements, tung oil should be applied regularly (2-4 times a year) and with care.

When exposed to rain and humidity, the waterproofing properties of tung oil gradually deteriorate; therefore, when you note a change in the look of your outdoor furniture’s finish, reapply tung oil immediately.

To maximize the efficacy of each application of tung oil, store tung oil cans in cool and dry locations to prevent spoilage. Additionally, be sure to provide extra care for pieces that have been treated with tung oil as compared to indoor furniture due to more frequent exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Does Tung Oil Go Bad – Conclusion

Ultimately, tung oil is favored for finishing due to its natural characteristics and capability of elevating the wood’s grain and hue. Nevertheless, if not kept carefully, tung oil can spoil and cause complications with the final effect.

By taking into account the advice presented in this article, you can stave off tung oil from ruining and guarantee that your furniture has an even and polished finish.

If you’re looking to craft a wood project, remember to store tung oil carefully and adhere to the instructions for use. To see what other types of finishes are available, have a read through our article “4 Types of Finishes: What to Use When and How? A Clear Guide.“

This comprehensive guide explains the various finishes along with their capabilities and methods of application, equipping you with all the necessary knowledge to pick the perfect finish for your work.