Varnishing an old parquet floor is an important step in renovating or maintaining this type of flooring. It involves applying a varnish, a very thin transparent and protective film that waterproofs the floor and restores its shine. Depending on the desired appearance and finish, the varnish can be a classic or intensive product. Here’s some insight into these products:
Several types of varnish for parquet flooring
- Water-based polyurethane varnishes
Water-based polyurethane varnishes are classic varnishes that have the advantages of being low in solvents, odorless, quick-drying, and eco-friendly. Varnishing a parquet floor with this type of product improves its resistance and therefore its long-term durability. According to their shade, which only brings out the natural beauty of the parquet, they generally have light tones that enhance the natural aspect of the wood and improve the appearance of an old parquet floor.
- Polyurethane resin varnishes
Polyurethane resin varnishes are also classic products that have the great advantages of providing flexibility, improving the resistance of old wooden parquet, and also preventing it from being slippery. Their difference from water-based polyurethane varnishes is that they enhance the warm colors and tones of the wood to bring a beautiful new warmth to an old parquet floor. Applied without mixing, this product is also quick-drying, very low in odor, and easy to use.
- Intensive use varnishes
Intensive use varnishes are high-performance products designed to varnish and protect old parquet floors and heavily used living spaces. Their strengths are that they are varnishes resistant to abrasion, impacts, friction, and household products.
Why and with which product should you varnish an old parquet floor?
Depending on the foot traffic on your parquet, its physical condition, and its age, you can easily choose the most suitable classic or intensive product. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from a parquet professional to guide you in order to recover an old parquet floor like new while preserving the charm of natural wood. Varnishing a parquet floor serves to give new life to an old parquet and bring out its beauty as well as its shine and cleaner look. This action also ensures protection and durability for several years, allowing it to be resistant to stains, dust, or splashes of substances such as grease. To apply a varnish, we always start by sanding the old parquet, with the aim of varnishing it immediately afterwards. For this, call on a company specialized in the renovation of old parquet floors in particular, as these operations require expertise and knowledge of products and materials, with the ultimate goal of avoiding premature aging of the parquet.
Maintenance of varnished old parquet floors
Varnishing an old parquet floor also really facilitates its maintenance afterwards, and this, for several weeks. It’s then a good way to avoid spending hours maintaining an old parquet floor that is heavily used. To maintain a varnished parquet floor, simply dust it entirely using a vacuum cleaner and then clean it with a well-wrung damp cloth. You can also then use specific wood floor care products to restore its shine or slow down its wear with renovating products that restore shine to dull and worn old parquet floors. Varnishing is, indeed, an action to be renewed only every two to ten years depending on the age and condition of your old parquet floor.
