Finishing an oak Mantlepiece

[beaver]

Hi Guys
Wonder if you can help, ive just fitted a large air dried oak mantlepiece over my fireplace, and the one who must be obeyed wants it finished rather than just letting it age, ive thought about an oil finish but have no idea how the heat will affect it, anyone have any advice on this please.

 

[kevin dwyer]

just use some water based varnish / lacquer if you're worried.

 

[mrpercysnodgrass]

I have recently made an elm mantlepiece for a friend, I used danish oil to finish which has worked very well, they have had their fire going all winter now with no ill effects.