Oiled Finish vs. Lacquer: What Actually Changes

A lacquered top resists water rings out of the box, but once it is scratched, refinishing means stripping the whole surface.

An oiled top shows wear sooner. It needs a light reapplication every six months or so, but a scratch is a five-minute spot repair, not a full refinish.

We finish our dining tables in oil by default because most households will touch the surface more than they will protect it, and oil forgives that.