When using green oak externally rather than internally, then just remember, it WILL change colour.
This is because the tannins will wash out due to the Great British weather, sorry, we mean the rain – our mistake!
UV in sunlight has a similar effect, so it will still weather as we have a summer. Don’t worry though, it’s under 1mm deep so you can sand it if you wanted. In case you were asking “what are tannins?” they are the acids in the oak which give you a headache when you drink Australian wine.
If you are a little impatient, then sugar soap will help with the staining, but not your peace of mind. If not, then just let them wash away naturally and enjoy your smug superior knowledge and better quality of life.
Oak will also change colour because it will have started the seasoning process – this is where the oak starts to dry out. Eventually, your green oak could then be classed as seasoned oak.
It is possible to guess how old a beam is from the colour, after about 10 years it is black. This is why old oak frame houses are black and white, anyone who paints them black should be forced to sand them back whilst wearing a chicken costume.
Look at the photo showing the difference between green oak and seasoned and you’ll notice why it’s best to use green oak for your framing jobs!
If you were inclined to use seasoned then take a look at the seasoned blog to see if it’s for you.
Now you have come to the end of this rather informative blog, if it hasn’t sent you into a slumber and you want to find out more, then give us a call, send in your plans or drop by for a chat.
