Carving Aftercare
Thanks you for purchasing a unique chainsaw carving.
A chainsaw carving is a work of art that is made to last a long time if cared for right however the woods appearance won't necessarily stay in prime condition unless you take special care to maintain it.
Following a regular treatment plan and paying attention to the environmental conditions in which you keep your carving will help it to stay beautiful for many years
1. Oil with a good quality oil that is designed to be used outside. I use premium danish oil which is only very slightly tinted. I also sometimes use decking oil which is very good and I have used it for over 7 years on my carvings. I do not recommend oils such as linseed.
Decking oils deep penetrating formula feeds the wood and restores the natural oils lost through weathering. It leaves a natural looking finish and the carving nourished and protected.
Tung oil is a very good oil recommended by some of my customers for use on oak.
As a rule it is best to oil at least once or twice a month for the first year and then at least once a year after that. Always follow the instructions on the oil container.
2. Protect the carving from excessive sunlight and heat. Try to place your carving in a shady spot in your garden as excessive heat in the summer months can rapidly dry out the timber and cause excessive cracking. If the weather becomes very hot then oil more frequently.
3. In winter if possible try to place your carving under cover but outside. Ice and snow can penetrate cracks and force them part when freezing
4. Try to place small stones under the base of your carving to raise it from the floor. The improved air flow and by not having the timber sitting in water will extend the life of the carving. Furniture should be placed on paving slabs or gravel to aid with drainage.
5. Unless the carvings are going inside do not fill cracks and splits. They will open and close depending on the weather and moisture in the air and filling can make them worse. I don't recommend any of my work to be placed inside. Excessive cracking is normally found when too little maintenance is carried out. Some cracks may occur and not close up fully but this is a natural property of wood and I think in 90% of cases can add to the beauty of the piece.
If you have any other questions please contact me either via my Facebook page or via the contact page of this website.
For downloadable print instructions please click the link below.