Bankirai hardwood oil: Durable and long-lasting protection

Treating Bankirai with oil protects against graying and drying out. Read how to properly maintain Bankirai for a beautiful terrace.

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Bankirai is a durable wood species widely used for decking, patios, and fencing. Thanks to its dense structure, this tropical hardwood is resistant to moisture and wear. Nevertheless, it is important to treat the wood with a suitable hardwood oil for bankirai. This prevents graying, extends the lifespan, and preserves the natural wood color. In this tutorial, you will learn how to apply bankirai oil, which products you need, and how to ensure long-lasting protection.

Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for good oil adhesion and a smooth finish. Depending on the condition of the bankirai wood, follow one of these steps:

Maintenance or re-oiling: Has your bankirai wood been treated with Osmo Terrace Oil before? Then sanding is not necessary. Clean the surface thoroughly with Osmo Terrace Cleaner before you start applying the bankirai oil. After drying for 12 to 24 hours, you can apply a new thin layer of oil for optimal protection.

Untreated bankirai wood: With new wood, it is important to let it weather for 4 to 6 weeks first. This ensures that the surface opens up and natural substances leach out, allowing the oil to adhere better and delaying the maintenance interval. Afterwards, clean the wood thoroughly with Osmo Power-Gel and apply the oil.

De-greying greyed wood: Is there any greying? Restore the natural color with Osmo Power-Gel wood de-greyer before applying the oil treatment. Never use a high-pressure cleaner: this damages the wood structure and makes it more susceptible to moisture.

Step-by-step plan: applying bankirai oil

Now that your wood is properly prepared, you can start the treatment. Below, you can read how to apply bankirai oil for the best results.

1

Choose the right oil

For horizontal surfaces such as decking or a patio, use Osmo Patio Oil. For vertical surfaces such as fences, choose Osmo UV Protection Oil. This oil offers excellent protection against UV radiation, moisture, and dirt.

Wooden terrace with Osmo sample and brush
2

Apply a thin first layer

Use a brush or microfiber roller and apply a thin layer of oil in the direction of the wood grain. Due to the dense structure of this tropical hardwood, a thin layer is sufficient. The oil penetrates deep into the wood and ensures a durable finish.

Wooden terrace with Osmo brushes
3

Let the oil dry

Allow the treated surface to dry for 12 to 24 hours. Ensure that it does not come into contact with rain or moisture during the drying time.

Terrace that is drying
12-24 hours
4

Apply a second coat

For good protection, a second coat is necessary. This ensures that the wood is even more resistant to weathering. The second coat penetrates deeper into the wood, especially with bankirai that has been treated previously.

Painting the patio with an Osmo patio brush

Benefits of Osmo bankirai hardwood oil

  • Penetrates deep into the wood for long-lasting protection
  • Does not peel or crack
  • Leaves the wood grain and natural wood color visible
  • Based on natural oils for eco-friendly use

Supplies

To apply hardwood oil or bankirai, you need:

Tips

  • Work only on dry and clean wood
  • If in doubt, first test a small area with a sample

Color examples

Osmo Terrace Oil is available in various shades, such as teak, bankirai, and colorless. The colorless variant enhances the original color of the wood but offers less protection against UV radiation. Do you want to deepen the color or prevent discoloration? Then choose an oil with pigment. There are different types of oil for sale, each with its own unique look.

Terrace Oil

UV Protection Oil

Maintenance advice

  • Clean the wood twice a year with Osmo Patio Cleaner
  • Check annually if a new coat of oil is needed
  • Use Osmo Power-Gel wood degreaser in case of graying
  • Ensure the wood is thoroughly clean and dry before applying oil again

Frequently asked questions

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