Maintaining an oiled floor

Understanding the maintenance of oiled floors

Oiled floors require regular maintenance to stay in good condition. The oil penetrates the wood, creating a protective barrier that helps protect the floor from damage. However, over time, the oil can begin to wear off, leaving the floor dull and lifeless. To prevent this, it’s important to follow the maintenance guidelines provided with your flooring.

Proper cleaning techniques for an oiled floor

One of the most important aspects of maintaining an oiled floor is proper cleaning. When cleaning an oiled floor, it’s important to avoid using water-based cleaners, as this can cause the oil to lift from the floor. Instead, use a cleaner specifically designed for oiled floors, such as a pH-neutral cleaner. When using a cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as excess cleaner can leave residue on the floor.

In addition to using an appropriate cleaner, it’s important to use a microfiber mop or soft cloth to clean the floor. This will help prevent scratches and damage to the floor. When mopping, be sure to go with the grain of the wood, which will help prevent streaking and leave the floor shiny and clean.

Repairing scratches and damage on an oiled floor

No matter how careful you are, scratches and damage can still occur on your oiled floor. However, these can be repaired with a simple touch-up. If you have a small scratch, you can simply apply a refreshing oil to the area, blending it into the surrounding floor. For larger scratches and damage, you may need to sand the area and reapply the oil. If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to consult a professional flooring specialist.

Refreshing the oil on your floor

Over time, the oil on your floor can lose its luster and protective qualities. To refresh the oil, simply clean the floor as described above, then apply a fresh coat of oil. You can purchase refreshing oil from your flooring manufacturer or a local hardware store. When applying the oil, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and allow the floor to dry completely before using it again.

How to properly maintain and clean your oiled floor?

Maintaining an oiled floor must be done according to certain rules described below. To preserve the surface of your floor for many years, it is important to use the appropriate products. Degreasing products should be avoided. In all cases, the use of water should be limited. Never spread a large amount of water across the entire parquet, as your floor could warp. Follow the maintenance guide for an oiled floor below and you will be assured of safely proceeding with the proper maintenance of your flooring.

Follow the maintenance guide for an oiled floor

• 1- During the first four weeks following the last coat of protective oil, your oiled floor is curing. During this maturation period, you should not wash your floor, use detergent, use water, or use any liquid on your wooden floor, as you risk staining or damaging it.

• 2- The recommendations for preserving a varnished floor also apply to preserving an oiled floor. We therefore advise you to start your reading by reviewing the link above. Now that you have expanded your knowledge in the field of parquet maintenance, you can continue your reading.
• 3- Be aware that products are specially designed to clean an oiled floor. Therefore, avoid using other cleaners. Specify to your retailer that your parquet has been coated with a protective impregnating oil. Also specify the name of the manufacturer of the floor oil you used to protect your wood strips, as different components may be present depending on the manufacturer.
• 4- Read the instructions on the label of maintenance products carefully and follow them rigorously. The manufacturer Bona offers a range of professional products to clean your oiled parquet adequately while nourishing it.
• 5- If your surface shows differences in sheen or stains in certain areas, clean it thoroughly with a damp mop. The oils that protect your slats will regain a uniform appearance. Then apply the oiled floor restorer for it to regain its authenticity.
• 6- Depending on the traffic your floor experiences, it is strongly recommended to apply one to two coats of oil on your parquet when it shows signs of apparent wear. We have designed a section that explains how to apply oil occasionally: long-term maintenance of an oiled floor.
• 7- If you own a commercial space, plan to use the services of a professional for oiled floors once a year. If you own a residential property, you can retain the services of an oiling expert once every three to five years.
• 8- Finally, each time you apply an additional layer of oil to your hardwood floor, you improve its resistance and appearance. Over time, with regular maintenance, you will obtain a beautiful patina, similar to that of European homes.

Conclusion

Use this maintenance guide if you want to preserve your wood. Poor maintenance of the oil covering your floor could eventually damage the wood. Ensure that the oil coating is always present in sufficient quantity on top of the slats. Exposed wood could stain or blacken. When the wood is affected, it must be deeply sanded to even it out and then the oil application must be restarted. L’Artisan du Plancher is a specialized Montreal company that handles all types of repairs and renovations on wooden floors.

Maintaining an oiled floor can be a bit challenging, but by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your floor looks its best for years. Whether you’re dealing with scratches and damage or simply need to refresh the oil, these tips will help you keep your floor looking new. If you have any questions about maintaining an oiled floor or need help with a repair, don’t hesitate to contact L’Artisan du Plancher today.

*To the best of our knowledge, the information contained in this document is accurate. As conditions and maintenance methods may vary, no guarantee is given on the recommendations and the final result. It is the responsibility of the user/owner to verify the suitability of the methods and ensure adequate preservation of the maintained areas.