Always interesting to read the comments on the blog. As far as OSMO is concerned you need to be aware that this is a natural oil based product that works in the wood like a mesh in the surface. Allowing moisture to come out of the wood but protecting it from the elements. Totally different from the concept of a surface coating which in essence is putting a film of plastic over the wood until it breaks down and flakes off and difficult to renew without sanding. OSMO is micro-porous and is easy to apply and maintain with just another coat application. However each timber species has its own properties and some are much easier to coat than others, generally its more difficult to coat oily woods and timber that has not been allowed to season or that has a high moisture content.The grade of final sanding can also effect the coating. Not only is it difficult to finish with oil based finishes but also surface coatings as these will lift off as the oils come to the surface. Water based finishes also find it difficult to adhere to the oily surface.In Germany Idigbo is more commonly used for interior joinery unless impregnated, it has a natural durability classed as medium. Idigbo contains lots of water soluble ingredients and because of this its difficult to finish as with rainfall these ingredients release and wash finishes away from the surface. Knowing each timber species is really important and understanding how to finish these is also critical and there is never a one product fits all solution. For Idigbo I would recommend allowing the wood to weather for a short period prior to finishing to allow the natural ingredients to come out of the timber. De-greasing can also help prior to application of the finish. Idigbo can be coated with OSMO if the correct preparation is carried out and the user understands the timber they are coating. Regular inspection of the surface is also necessary and re-coating is required as soon as any deterioration is visible. If this advice is followed pretty much any timber can be coated with OSMO. So I implore all readers to understand the timber species they are considering using and consult manufactures of finishes before making a product selection to ensure they have the best product available and know how to prepare and use it correctly. (Picture shows how water soluble Idigbo is, having dipped it in water for only one minute)
