---
title: "Why We Use Tung Oil"
description: "Learn about our secret finishing method: pure tung oil. Derived from the nuts of the tung tree, this natural drying oil penetrates deeply to enhance reclaimed barn wood’s patina and provide long-lasting protection. Discover why we choose tung oil and how we source premium quality for our furniture."
canonical_url: "https://furniturefromthebarn.com/blog/why-we-use-tung-oil"
md_url: "https://furniturefromthebarn.com/blog/why-we-use-tung-oil.md"
last_updated: "2025-07-21"
---

# Why We Use Tung Oil

> [Furniture From The Barn](/index.md): custom furniture handcrafted from reclaimed barn wood and American hardwoods in Nottingham, Pennsylvania. Site guide: [llms.txt](/llms.txt)

- **Published:** 2014-02-15
- **Updated:** 2025-07-21
- **Author:** Kelly Tryon-Kelly

One of our customers' frequently asked questions is, "What product is used to finish the wood on a farmhouse table?" I love it when they ask.

**Our secret is tung oil.**

## What Is Tung Oil?

Tung oil (sometimes called _China wood oil_ — **ours is sourced and refined in the USA**) is a drying oil that's been used for thousands of years. It was once even employed to waterproof wooden ships. Extracted from the seeds of tung-tree nuts, this oil penetrates deeply into wood fibers.

Tung oil's natural resin does two things:

1.  Creates an incredibly rich patina that enhances reclaimed barn wood's beauty.
2.  Provides exceptional protection when properly applied.

## Our Premium Tung-Oil Selection

We spent months sourcing the most premium tung oil we could find. While we safeguard that supplier information, if you become a customer and ever need to re-oil your table, we'll happily share it with you 😊.

### Benefits of Our Tung-Oil Finish

-   **Rich, even absorption:** brings out the color and grain for a genuine “old-world” look.
-   **Water & stain resistance:** As tung oil penetrates the wood, it becomes part of the wood, so you won't get cloudy rings from wet glasses.
-   **Easy refresh:** years down the road you can re-oil the surface and restore the original sheen.

## Our Application Process

We typically apply five to six coats, hand-sanding between each. Each coat dries for 24 hours, so the process takes patience — but the results speak for themselves.

Low-grade tung oils can remain tacky for days. Our high-end brand costs over **$100 per gallon**, but customers consistently tell us the durability and character are worth every penny.

## Tung Oil on Different Wood Types

**Tung oil on chestnut**

![Chestnut farmhouse tabletop finished with tung oil](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0631/3626/8358/files/IMG_6701.jpg?v=1753111640)

**Tung oil on oak**

![Oak farmhouse tabletop finished with tung oil](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0631/3626/8358/files/IMG_1343.jpg?v=1753111681)

**Tung oil on white pine**

![White-pine farmhouse tabletop finished with tung oil](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0631/3626/8358/files/IMG_1682.jpg?v=1753111717)

### Learn More About Our Handcrafted Furniture

-   [Browse our full furniture collection](/furniture)
-   [See all farmhouse tables](/furniture/farmhouse-tables)
-   [Read customer reviews](/reviews)
-   [Contact our team](/contact)

**Furniture From The Barn — Handcrafted in Chester County, Pennsylvania**  
Every piece is 100% American-made from reclaimed barn wood or sustainably harvested new hardwoods.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is tung oil food-safe?

Yes. Once fully cured, pure tung oil is non-toxic and suitable for surfaces that come into contact with food.

### How often should I re-oil my table?

With normal household use, a light refresher coat every 3–5 years keeps the finish looking its best. High-traffic kitchen tables may benefit from an annual touch-up.

### Can I apply tung oil myself?

Absolutely. We're happy to supply detailed instructions if you purchased your piece from us.

## More

- [All Our Blog](/blog.md)

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