Why choose an oiled staircase?
Have you ever looked at your wooden stairs and asked yourself the following questions: Would an oiled staircase have been a wise choice? Would it be possible to simply apply a coat of varnish over the old one and thus avoid redoing the big sanding job?
You’ve inquired and you’ve likely received the following answer: “We recommend sanding down to the bare wood and then varnishing.”
If you had oiled stairs, it would have been possible to apply one or two coats of natural oil over the previous one, and your staircase would have regained its former appearance. When deciding to use a penetrating oil to protect our staircase, we make an intelligent choice. However, you should know that if you want to maintain the beauty of your steps or railing, maintaining your oiled stairs every three or four years is essential!
To do this, you simply need to refresh the surface by applying one or two additional coats of oil. However, be careful not to wait until the wood of your stairs is bare or whitened because it will oxidize and you will have to sand it again. We therefore recommend preventive maintenance of your oiled stairs in areas that show signs of premature wear. L’Artisan du Plancher offers you this option and if you wish to see examples in photos, please consult the “our achievements” section.
An oiled staircase, an ecological choice
Over the past two decades, we have experienced a real revolution in our society. We now care about preserving the environment and this change in mentality is explained by an awareness of environmental issues.
We are in the era of technological developments and many products are now within our reach. Currently, natural penetrating oil is the wood coating that represents the most ecological solution among those available.
Today, oils have evolved well, they are durable and give that sought-after look to your interior. The atmosphere of your home becomes warm and comforting, not without evoking the inimitable charm of old European wooden floors.
Renovation & DIY Although there are several advantages to oils, it should be noted that they will only be offered to you in a single luster that will give your staircase a matte finish.
You will also need to maintain it carefully, using recommended products to preserve all its beauty. If necessary, it may be useful to apply one to two coats of oil on the surface you wish to protect. For more information, consult the chapter “the advantages and disadvantages of natural oils”.
Finally, if you like the vitrified effect that varnish provides to your wooden stairs, you will then have to give up choosing oil. Fortunately, there are several water-based varnish options: matte, satin, semi-gloss and glossy.
For more information on varnishes and their composition, consult our “products” section or contact us. We’ll be happy to help!