How Do You Waterproof an Oak Barrel?
Waterproofing an oak barrel is done with a water soak. You can stop an oak barrel leaking by allowing the wood staves to swell which makes the barrel water-tight. Waterproofing wine barrels is done by soaking the
Waterproofing an oak barrel is done with a water soak.
You can stop an oak barrel leaking by allowing the wood staves to swell which makes the barrel water-tight.
Waterproofing wine barrels is done by soaking the barrel in cold water and rinsing it out a few times a day. In some instances, with relatively dry barrels, the water is kept inside the barrels for a few days at a time. But ensure to add clean water every second day as mold can develop with dirty water.
Essentially, this water soaking method stops oak barrels from leaking by creating moisture on the wood, which expands the wood and seals off any pores and holes.
Once the barrel has soaked in the water for a couple of days, dry the barrel out completely. To check if you managed to waterproof the oak barrel, add a smaller amount of water to it and roll the barrel around. If there is any leakage that occurs, it means that the barrel is not waterproof, and the process should be repeated.
A leaking wine barrel will not work when it comes to wine or whiskey maturation, and should therefore be waterproofed as securely as possible.
Ensure you do everything you can to seal off the barrel so that it can be used successfully.
