How to Oil a Joint

Joints exposed to the elements will rust quicker, and require oiling more frequently.

A wooden joint in a cabinet, timber frame, cupboard or piece of furniture might be tricky to oil due to its awkward shape, and the angle you have to reach it from. It is necessary to oil it, however, in order to protect the wood and to make sure it is finished professionally. If the joint is made from metal, oiling is also important to stop the joint becoming rusty and squeaky. Get started by choosing the correct oil for the job.

Things You'll Need

• Brush
• Penetrating oil (WD 40, linseed oil or mineral oil for example)
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Obtain the correct oil for the joint. Mineral oil is non-toxic and therefore suitable for joints that come in contact with food; such as pantry shelf, or kitchen cupboard. Mineral oil does not give the wood a sheen. Linseed oil is ideal for newly fashioned wooden joints and outdoor projects. A penetrating oil like WD40 is best for metallic joints.

2. Clean the joint thoroughly with a brush before you apply the oil. Wash the joint if it is really dirty, provided the object can be exposed to water. The oil will not protect the joint sufficiently if there is dirt present, so if necessary, use a flat headed screwdriver to pry up any dirt caught in between the joint.

3. Apply a small amount of oil to the clean cloth. Do not soak the cloth in the oil; simply add a splash to moisten the surface slightly. It is better to oil the joint gradually so it absorbs the oil bit by bit, and you can really work the oil into the corner.

4. Rub the oil into the joint using firm circular motions. Press down onto the joint so that the oil can penetrate the surface. Use your finger to reach between gaps in a narrow joint. Or, wrap the cloth around a pencil or end of a toothbrush to reach the difficult areas.

5. Wait for a few minutes for the oil to soak into the joint. Then, massage the joint with the oil. This means rubbing it with the cloth so that the oil is encouraged to soak into the surface.

6. Repeat the oil application at least once more, so that the joint is properly oiled.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when oiling around a joint that is close to a lock. If the oil gets into the lock it might gum it up.

• If you are oiling a brand new joint, sand it down slightly between each application of oil using fine grit sandpaper. Then, re-apply the oil. This process is called burnishing.

References

• Home Joint: Door Hinge Squeaking
• Am Wood: Oil Finishes