Ageing maintenance outdoors

Depending on exposure to sunlight, linseed oil paint will begin to fade after a while. This is first noticed in a south facing position. This is caused by the linseed oil in the paint breaking down. The fading process of the paint is natural and no direct action is required. When the paint becomes totally matt it becomes “chalky” i.e. the colour comes off when touched. Linseed oil paint does not flake off from the substrate.

The chalking process can be positive in as much as the “paint washes itself” and the dirt and any eventual mould/algae is eroded away from the surface. However, it can create certain practical problems e.g. garden furniture leaving colour stains. We would like to point out that the breaking down process only takes place on the exterior surface and that the lifespan of the paint in general is indefinate.

Maintenance using only linseed oil on flat planed surfaces.

Clean the area to be treated and brush on the raw or boiled linseed oil thinly. After half an hour wipe off any excess oil and the paint will have regained its original colour and lustre.

Maintenance using linseed oil/turpentine on roughly sawn surfaces.

Clean the surface as required. Mix raw linseed oil and turpentine equally and apply it thinly only once.

Check that the linseed oil penetrates into the substrate and remove any excess using a dry paintbrush.

Repainting?

When the linseed oil painted surface appears matt it is often believed that it is time to repaint. In terms of durability this is not the case. Externally, linseed oil paint lasts a long time with a matt appearance. The time for repainting can be between 8-15 years. It is more a matter of aesthetics than one of durability.