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Post History
I've mostly worked with pine wood, because it's cheap and easy to work with. I've had some projects where I finished it (polyurethane coat, sometimes a stain) and other projects where I didn't (jus...
Question
Arts-&-Crafts
#1: Initial revision
by
matthewsnyder
·
2023-07-06T21:56:34Z (over 1 year ago)
What are the drawbacks of leaving wood unfinished?
I've mostly worked with pine wood, because it's cheap and easy to work with. I've had some projects where I finished it (polyurethane coat, sometimes a stain) and other projects where I didn't (just sanded and called it a day). After a few years, the unfinished pieces seem to be doing okay. They get dirty a bit easier, and are a bit harder to clean (although sanding works), but otherwise I don't mind them. They don't do well if exposed to moisture, but they're fine if kept dry. However, it seems like _real_ woodworkers tend to _finish_ their pieces (pun not intended :) ). Is there a practical reason for this? If I'm happy with the look and feel of a raw wood piece immediately upon completion, what long term effects would make me regret not putting a finish on it?