Untreated worktop

[themack]

Hi everybody
I have a worktop which I am using for my workbench eventually. It is beech, 40mm thick and untreated. I haven't done anything with it like dog holes and the like. It will be another 4 -6 weeks until I start the workbench project. It lays flat in a heated insulated workshop. Do I need to worry about it drying out, should I apply some oil? It's a laminated worktop, not out of one piece.
Thank you Sandra

 

[Adam W.]

I think it's probably dry already Sandra, so I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[Sgian Dubh]

It lays flat in a heated insulated workshop. Do I need to worry about it drying out, should I apply some oil?

If you mean by "lays flat" that it's resting on an existing flat surface that prevents air circulation to both sides of the panel it would be a good idea to raise the panel up on stickers about 18 - 25 mm square. This will allow air to circulate and reduce the chance of warp, primarily cupping. Set the stickers across the grain and about 500 - 600 mm apart.

No oil or other finish needed, not at this point anyway. Slainte.

 

[themack]

Thanks guys. Good idea with the stickers, but I will probably turn it over weekly, it's only 140cm long.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

If you do treat it with anything, treat both sides. BLO is commonly used, it gives an element of protection against muck sticking without being glossy, but just about anything is OK - just not too much of it. Many people don't bother.