Replies

1. 
   ring | Mar 20, 2007 12:06pm | #1

   Basically the finish you describe is diluted mineral oil. Nothing wrong with it as an oil finish but it won't really keep "critters" away. I've encountered people in Provence using old (burned) engine oil because it's "rustic". In any case, once it's dry you can put a sealer over it.

   Funny how the "critters" aren't considered rustic...

   David Ring

   http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e

1. 
   Santander | Mar 21, 2007 12:18pm | #2

   Why do you think that evryone here uses the used car oil as a repellant? Possibly to kill existing insects at the time of application? I have learned to respect many of the methods here, especially after working with other foreigners who scoff at everything. I do know that the insects here are worse than anything I ever saw in Kentucky. Thanks for first response it cleared up a concern on a project I am currently working on.

1. 
   ring | Mar 21, 2007 02:35pm | #3

   I wasn't scoffing at all. The motor oil probably kills whatever is alive in the wood, maybe simply by cutting off the oxygen. (The oil itself is non-toxic.) However I'm quite sure that re-infestation can happen later on down the line. As far as local methods are concerned - I've found it's best to keep an open mind. There's a lot of practical wisdom that has gradually accumulated in different corners of the world.David Ring

   http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e

1. 
   Santander | Mar 21, 2007 08:43pm | #4

   I wasn´t refering to you scoffing. I was talking about when I have worked with others here that are not Spanish ( like myself). Many tend to spend more time being critical of local methods than keeping an open mind and learning something. By the way  where are you located.

1. 
   ring | Mar 21, 2007 09:27pm | #5

   I'm in the Galilee, about halfway between the Mediteranean and the Sea of Galilee.  Maybe 10 miles as the crow flies to Nazareth.

    David Ring

   http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e

2. 
   Santander | Mar 27, 2007 11:15am | #6

   If you don't mind I have some questions about your work experience there. I take it you are not local. Do you work for yourself? How many years have you been in your location?

3. 
   ring | Mar 27, 2007 12:27pm | #7

   Although I've moved my shop through many transformations and locations, I've been in this region for 37 years. (You can get a bit more background on the link to our homepage) About 8 years ago I reformed my company to include 2 partners - my oldest son and another guy, both of them had worked for me for a long time. I don't mind answering questions ... ask away.David Ring

   http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e