Dry oak beams

[Anonymous]

Some of the exposed oak beams in our cottage look and feel very dry, some have surface cracking, please can anyone tell me how to treat these and what I need to do to stop this happening again.
Thanks in advance
Stuart

 

[Anonymous]

They should be dry. And cracking is what oak does. Relax and enjoy it. Rub some linseed oil into an inconspicuous corner and if you like the effect go with that.

 

[Anonymous]

Wish mine were all dry <IMG SRC="http://www.periodproperty.co.uk/discussing/smileys/frown.gif" BORDER=0 ALT="">
Mind you with the nice weather I've been out in the garden for the last few days, not thinking about how to tackle them yet <IMG SRC="http://www.periodproperty.co.uk/discussing/smileys/smile.gif" BORDER=0 ALT="">

 

[Anonymous]

I agree with Biff's suggestion, except that my preferred finish for oak beams is beeswax and turpentine polish.
But as Biff said, don't worry about the cracks. They'll still be hugely strong, and you'll never stop it happening. Just enjoy it as "character"!