Parquet flooring is appreciated for its aesthetic qualities and affordable price. Easy to install, this material, also known as marquetry, demonstrates good durability. However, it’s normal for a floor to experience some wear, and after a while, it needs to be renewed. Here are 4 renovation projects to give your parquet floor a rejuvenating makeover.
Repair damaged floor sections
Regardless of the type of renovation planned to renew a parquet floor, repairs should always be the first step. Certain sections of the floor are more damaged and require special attention.
Survey the area and note the places that need repair and the slats that need replacement. It’s common for wood slats to come unstuck or for some slats to be higher than others due to wear. Pay special attention to areas near radiators, plumbing fixtures, and around windows. Water can cause parquet flooring to swell, and consequently, all areas exposed to it tend to be more easily damaged.
All damaged slats must then be replaced so that the floor regains its uniform appearance. Afterward, if you wish to proceed with other renovations, the flooring will be ready for these.
Sanding a parquet floor
Sanding a parquet floor must be done carefully. The surface, pattern, and wood grain require gentle sanding to preserve the material’s integrity. Often, it’s recommended to perform an initial sanding. Then, if certain sections remain uneven and/or damaged, it’s possible to proceed with a second or third sanding to level the floor.
Sanding should be done using dust-free sanding tools, as traditional equipment can create a lot of mess. It’s also very important to respect the unique character of this flooring and to know how to employ proper sanding practices to preserve the beauty of the wood.
Refinishing (varnish or oil)
Following sanding, it’s important to focus on the finish. Parquet floors can be protected with varnish or oil, depending on your needs and preferences.
Varnish is applied on the surface, while oil penetrates the wood. This means that once you’ve chosen oil, you can’t change your mind because, unlike varnish, sanding won’t remove it. Among the advantages of varnish are its waterproof surface and ease of maintenance. Oil, on the other hand, enhances the beauty of the floor and gives it a natural and rustic luster.
Staining the wood slats
Lastly, it’s also possible to stain a parquet floor. This option is particularly interesting when you have a floor in good condition but want to change its appearance to transform the room’s decor. Of course, you’ll probably need to choose a darker shade than the current floor to achieve good results. Products are available in a wide variety of shades, which means you’ll certainly find a hue that suits you.
For quality results, it’s preferable to entrust this task, along with repairs, varnishing, and sanding, to specialists. They know the best practices to employ to enhance the floor and offer durable results.
