Oil stain/protect wood?

[wolfmankurd]

I heard someone mention that they'd used to use old engine oil to stain and protect their shed. I don't know about going anywhere near used engine oil because of all the nastiness, but has anyone used engine oil on wood?

My shed is looking a bit worse for wear and I have plenty of unused engine oil lying around I'd love to make use of semi-synth.

My major concern is it'd just attract muck and soften the wood rather than protect it!

 

[HDi fun]

Google creosote

 

[obi_waynne]

I can't see why it wouldn't work especially if it Is mineral oil. It will probably smell for a while.

 

[HDi fun]

I love the smell of old fashioned creosote - the coal tar stuff

 

[obi_waynne]

They don't sell it anymore, was that due to health issues?

I do love the smell of that stuff though.

 

[turbonutter69]

Yes I do believe you are right Waynne. Not been about for a good few years now.

 

[wolfmankurd]

Well I gave it a go but it was pretty hard to work. Read online that diesel can be used as a thinner so I added some paraffin and it seems to be easier to use.

In the end I just ended up buying a tub of the proper stuff tho!