Do Your Products Come Finished? A Complete Guide to Wood Finishes

All of our products are supplied unfinished.

That means the wood is sanded and ready to use—but it hasn’t been oiled, waxed, or sealed. This gives you full control over the final look, but it also means one important thing:

You’ll need to treat it before use.

Why We Don’t Pre-Finish

Finishing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

The right treatment depends on:

• Where the wood will be used
• The level of moisture or wear
• The look you want to achieve

Leaving the wood untreated means you can choose what works best for your space.

What Happens If You Don’t Treat It?

Untreated wood is vulnerable to:

• Stains and marks
• Moisture damage
• Warping or movement over time

Even in dry rooms, we strongly recommend applying a finish.

In kitchens, bathrooms, or high-use areas, it’s essential.

Your Finishing Options

There are two main routes most people take:

Oil (Most Common)

• Enhances the natural look of the wood
• Soaks into the surface rather than sitting on top
• Easy to reapply over time

Best for: shelves, worktops, and a more natural finish.

Varnish / Lacquer

• Creates a protective layer on top of the wood
• More resistant to water and wear
• Slightly more “sealed” appearance

Best for: skirting boards, doors, and areas with heavier use.

A Few Practical Tips

• Always treat all sides, including the underside
• Apply multiple coats as recommended by the product (usually 3 are enough)
• Reapply over time, especially for oiled finishes
• Wipe away standing water where possible

In Short

• All products are supplied unfinished
• You’ll need to apply a finish before use
• Oil for a natural look, varnish for more protection

If you’re unsure what to use, it usually comes down to where the piece is going—get in touch to hello@getplanks.co.uk and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Updated on: 31/03/2026