Oil finishes are much more common than poly due to ease of application. In most cases the finish is applied prior to raising. Most framers have a favorite recipe for oil based finishes related to how they are affected by conditions prior to closing in the frame. See the many opinions raised in this discussion http://www.timberframersguild.org/ubb/Forum3/HTML/000004.html

With white pine, an additional concern is blue mold formation. See this discussion for a good overview http://www.timberframersguild.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000044.html

[This message has been edited by Brian W (edited 06-22-2000).]