Proper finish for a timber frame?

[Bender78]

Hi all,

My garage/shop is a 28 x 34 timber framed barn that I built about 10 years ago. It’s actually more of a “modified” timber frame since it has a conventionally framed roof. The frame is 6 x 8 hemlock timbers, siding is 1 x 12 shiplap pine, all native lumber harvested and milled locally.

I finally have the time and money to finish the interior. I’m in the process of installing the insulation and applying OSB for the finished walls. I’m looking for a recommendation for a finish on the exposed timbers. I don’t want to paint them. How about linseed oil? I know that this has been a traditional finish on a lot of old timber frames but I’m wondering if there are any other materials that I should consider. I have used CWF on the exterior and it does a great job, but I don’t think it would be the best thing for the inside now that it is becoming a pretty tight environment.

Here are a couple of photos of what I’m working with. Any suggestions? I never fail to be impressed with the knowledge base on this board.

 

[Bill Marshall]

I recently used Landark interior finish for my timberframe home and am very pleased with the results. http://www.landarkwoodfinish.com/productinfo.html
Your timbers appears to have a rough finish so this may make the finish application a bit more difficult.

 

[CanyonRS4]

I would second the LandArk product, I have a timber frame home and that is what the timber framers used. They say it can be reapplied about every 5 years to keep it looking new if desired. The finish gives it a nice rich patina.

 

[Bender78]

Thanks.

The LandArk product looks like a really good finish. I wish it was around when I finished the timbers in my house. I think these dry barn timbers are going to soak up a fair amount of oil and at $50 a gallon that's going to get pretty expensive.

One old timer suggested linseed oil cut 50% with mineral spirits. I just have no experience with oil finishes and wonder if this has any drawbacks. It sure looks like an economical approach.