Oak worktop

[foster25]

Hi all

I am a diy'er

and fitted my oak worktop in my new kitchen at the weekend,

however i have not oiled it properly

it came with one coating pre-applied but i have fitted it without oiling the cutout areas and have not oiled the underside, it would be a huge job to remove the worktop as its all joint together in a U shape

so if i can access most of the underside but am un-able to access the sink cutout and a few other areas for oiling, is this a major?

thankyou for any help you can give

 

[ivixor]

Why would you need to oil the underside?

The oil is to protect it from water spills, and i don't think you'll have many of those under there. Just oil the top!

 

[foster25]

most giudes i have read say every area of the worktop should be oiled in order to stop it bowing/ splitting

 

[ivixor]

Never heard of that myself. I only oiled the top of my oak worktops and have had no problems in two years.

 

[foster25]

oh ok cheers thats good to know, as the last thing i want to do is take it all apart now its all fixed and level

 

[maltaron]

I usually oil all round (mine had 5 coats all round before fitting). However, I would not expect problems with not oiling the underside but would be concerned if any showing end grain was not treated.(i.e. round the sink opening)

 

[Prockie]

Worth checking out if the underside is oiled to 'balance' it out as far as moisture being drawn in. We do not sell solid wood, but I am sure my fitters have said you have to oil both sides...