Achieving the Classic Waxed Look for Your Hardwood Floors
Posted on June 17, 2023
News
Exploring Hardwood Floor Finishes: The Timeless Appeal of the Waxed Look
Hardwood flooring is popular with many homeowners due to its durability, timeless appeal, and versatility. However, selecting the right finish is equally important to enhance its beauty and lifespan. One traditional and charming option is the waxed look. This article explores the art of applying a wax finish to hardwood floors, its benefits, and the steps to maintain it.
1. Introduction to Hardwood Floor Finishes
Hardwood floor finishes protect the wood from damage, enhance its natural beauty, and provide a durable surface that can withstand the rigors of everyday use. The type of finish can greatly impact the appearance and maintenance requirements of the floor.
2. The Allure of the Waxed Look
The waxed look is a classic finish that has been used for centuries. It offers a low-sheen, rich, and deep appearance that accentuates the wood’s natural grain. But the appeal of wax goes beyond its look.
Easy Application
Wax is one of the easiest finishes to apply. It doesn’t require a professional application, making it a feasible option for DIY enthusiasts.
Repairability
One of the great advantages of wax is that it’s easily repairable. Unlike polyurethane finishes that require refinishing the entire floor when damaged, wax can be spot-repaired, saving time and money.
Non-toxic Option
Wax is a natural, non-toxic product, making it a safer option for homes, especially those with children or pets.
3. The Process of Applying Wax Finish
Applying a wax finish requires patience and precision, but the results are well worth the effort.
Preparing the Floor
The first step is to prepare your floor by ensuring it’s clean, dry, and smooth. Sanding might be required if the floor is old or damaged.
Applying the wax
Wax should be applied evenly using a cloth or a fine steel wool pad, following the wood grain. Care should be taken not to apply too much wax, which can result in a sticky, dull finish.
Buffing the Floor
Once the wax has dried, the floor needs to be buffed. This can be done using a buffing machine or manually with a cloth. Buffing gives the floor a beautiful, low-gloss sheen.
4. Maintaining a Waxed Hardwood Floor
Maintaining a waxed floor requires regular care but is not overly complicated.
Regular dusting and cleaning
Waxed floors should be dusted regularly to avoid accumulating dirt, which can scratch the surface. Wet mopping should be avoided; a slightly damp mop can be used for cleaning.
Periodic Waxing
Waxed floors will require re-waxing when they start to look dull. The frequency will depend on the traffic the floor receives.
Avoiding Water and Spills
Water and other liquid spills should be cleaned immediately, as they can cause white spots or damage the wood.
Conclusion
A wax finish offers a classic and charming look to your hardwood floors. Although it might require more maintenance than other finishes, its beauty and the warm, homey feel it imparts can make it a rewarding choice. As with any home improvement project, understanding what is involved in the process and the maintenance required will help you make the best decision for your home.
We provide virtually dust-free sanding with our continuous belt machinery with mobile extraction units, giving you a safer environment for your family.
This organic finish not only adds beauty to your home but also has exceptional water-repellent characteristics, making it easier to clean and maintain.
We offer a full assessment of your wooden floors to determine what repairs are needed to provide the perfect working surface for the later stages of sanding, staining and sealing.