Nurturing Wooden Floors: Maintaining Shine and Durability with the Right Finish

Wooden floors add a classic touch to any room, but keeping them gorgeous and healthy is all about finding the right finish and maintaining them properly. Your timber finish will affects how your floors look, how well they hold up, and how easy they are to take care of. In the following post, we’ll guide you through the different types of wood finishes and provide some tips on how to keep your floors looking how well the floor stands up to traffic, spills, and the test of time. Generally speaking, there are three key types of finishes to consider:

1. Polyurethane Finishes: Polyurethane is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains. Water-based polyurethane dries quickly, has a low odour, and retains the wood’s natural colour. Sadolin’s water- based floor varnish ideal for all interior wood flooring. Available in Clear gloss and satin finishes this formula is ideal for use on  natural wood or over timber stained with Quick Dry Woodstain or Classic Woodstain.
2. Oil Finishes (Natural and Hardwax): Oil finishes, like linseed or tung oil, penetrate the wood, enhancing its grain and natural beauty. Hardwax oils, a blend of natural oils and waxes, provide a more durable surface while maintaining the classic look of an oil finish. Sadolin 2 in 1 Decking Oil is designed to both enrich and preserve the natural charm of your wooden decks. This oil penetrates deep into the wood, replenishing the natural oils. It’s formulated with advanced UV technology, including UV light absorbers, for top-notch protection against harmful UV rays. This decking oil also excels in shielding against the elements, repelling water effectively, and preventing the growth of mould and algae.
3. Wax: Wax finishes for wooden floors are a traditional choice that are known for their natural, understated elegance. Ideal for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic, wax provides a soft, satiny sheen that enhances the wood’s natural beauty. Unlike the glossier finishes of polyurethanes, a wax finish offers a more organic look and feel, allowing the texture and grain of the wood to shine through. However, wax finishes are usually less resistant to moisture and wear (but are easier to touch up and reapply).

Preventative Care

Regardless of the finish, some general practices can help extend the life of your wooden floors include:

1. Regular cleaning: Sweep, dust, or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that can scratch your timber floors. When mopping, use a slightly damp mop with a cleaner specifically designed for wooden floors and your chosen finish. Avoid using excess water as it can seep into the wood and cause damage.
2. Use protective pads: Place felt pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and dents. This is particularly important for heavy items such as sofas and tables. When moving furniture, lift rather than drag the items across the floor.
3. Take care of spills promptly: Clean up spills immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Allowing liquids to sit on wooden floors can cause staining and warping. For sticky spills, a damp cloth with a mild cleaning solution can be used, followed by a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
4. Control Humidity Levels: Extreme changes in humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping or gaps. Try to maintain a consistent indoor humidity level, ideally between 35% and 55%.
5. Use Rugs and Mats: Place mats at external entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture tracked into your house, and therefore onto your wood. Rugs in high-traffic areas can also help minimise wear and tear.

Choosing and maintaining the right finish for your wooden floors is a blend of art and science. It’s about understanding the unique characteristics of each finish and doing your best to keep them looking beautiful. By following our above tips, you can ensure that your floors not only look stunning but also stand the test of time, becoming a beloved feature within your home. For more timber advice and everything you need to care for and beautify your wooden surfaces, call into your local Sadolin stockist.