Oiled Floor Maintenance
The Natural Beauty Of Oiled Floors
Oiled floors possess a unique and timeless charm that resonates with a connection to nature. Unlike other floor finishes, the floor oils are likely to preserve the natural look of the wood without creating an artificial coating. This is a significant advantage for those who appreciate the inherent beauty and texture of natural timber. The oil penetrates deep into the wood fibers, nourishing and protecting them from within. Most floor oils are being nearly fully absorbed by the wood, leaving a matte or satin finish that feels natural underfoot. The floor’s texture, the grain and the very fiber of the wood, can still be distinctly felt when touched, providing a tactile experience that a surface coating cannot replicate. This natural finish is also highly appreciated for its ability to allow the wood to breathe. The natural ventilation afforded by the oil helps regulate moisture within the wood, which is beneficial for the floor’s longevity. Furthermore, a key consideration for many environmentally conscious consumers is the chemical composition of the finish. Generally, floor oils usually contain less harmful chemicals than the solvent-based floor lacquers, making them a more appealing, ‘greener’ option for interior spaces. The aesthetic appeal of an oiled floor is one of warmth, depth, and character, making it a highly desirable choice for both modern and traditional homes. The soft sheen and the way the wood ages gracefully over time, acquiring a beautiful patina, only add to its enduring appeal.
The Difference Between The Oils And Lacquers
Understanding the fundamental difference between oils and lacquers is crucial for effective floor maintenance. The primary distinction lies in how they interact with the wood. Floor oils are penetrating finishes; they sink into the wood to protect it from the inside out. They bind with the wood fibers and harden within the material, creating a robust, yet completely natural-looking barrier against dirt and moisture. They enhance the wood’s natural color and grain without masking it. In contrast, most floor lacquers are surface finishes. They are likely to over glaze the surface and create an artificial coating over the top of the wood. This coating acts as a seal, completely covering the wood. While lacquers offer very high resistance to wear and tear and are generally easier to clean, they create a plastic-like layer that can look somewhat artificial. This surface layer also prevents the natural ventilation of the wood. When a lacquer is damaged or scratched, the entire surface may need to be sanded down and recoated to restore its uniform look. For an oiled floor, a localized repair is often possible, simply by spot-cleaning and reapplying oil to the damaged area, making maintenance less disruptive in the long run. The choice between oil and lacquer often comes down to a preference for a natural, repairable finish (oil) versus a highly durable, low-maintenance surface coating (lacquer).
Hardwaxoil Versus Floor Oils
Within the category of oil finishes, there are two major types to consider: floor oils and hardwax oils. While both penetrate the wood, their final appearance and performance characteristics differ. The standard floor oils are fully absorbed by the wood, leaving a very natural, open-pore finish. They are typically manufactured from natural components, such as olive oil, often combined with some enhancers to improve durability and drying time. This type of oil profoundly showcases the wood’s natural texture and feel. There are clear oils that do not change the look and the colour of the wood at all, maintaining the original pale shade, and there are floor oils that contain a tint, which can be used to deepen the color or alter the hue of the wood. The goal of traditional floor oils is purely to nourish and protect the wood without creating a noticeable surface layer. Hardwax oils, on the other hand, are designed to imitate the look of the lacquers while retaining some of the natural feel of an oiled floor. They are a blend of natural oils and waxes. The oil component penetrates and nourishes the wood, while the wax component remains on the surface, forming a thin, protective, and slightly harder layer. This wax layer provides enhanced resistance to water and spills compared to traditional oils and often results in a finish that has a slightly more noticeable sheen, falling somewhere between the matte look of a traditional oil and the high gloss of a lacquer. This provides an excellent compromise for those who desire the durability and easier cleaning of a surface layer but still want a finish that allows the wood to breathe and can be repaired locally.
How To Refresh Oiled Floors
Refreshing an oiled floor is a necessary maintenance process that restores its protective qualities and aesthetic appeal. Over time, high-traffic areas will show signs of wear as the oil is slowly depleted. The entire refreshing process is a multi-step operation that ensures the floor is properly prepared and treated for maximum longevity.
Deep Cleaning Preparation
Before any oil is reapplied, the floor must be meticulously cleaned. The floor should be deep cleaned with a quality oiled floor cleaning product to remove as much dirt, grime, and old, soiled oil as possible. The presence of dirt will inhibit the penetration of the new refresher coat and lead to an uneven, dirty appearance. This deep cleaning is best achieved with a flat mop, utilizing a controlled amount of water. Excessive water should be avoided at all costs, as wood is highly susceptible to water damage. The cleaning agent must be specifically formulated for oiled floors, as harsh household cleaners can strip the remaining oil and damage the wood. Once cleaned, the floor must be allowed to dry completely. A clean, matte surface is the ideal foundation for the refresher oil.
Application of the Refresher Oil
Once the floor is bone dry and clean, the refreshing oil can be applied. A thin coat of oiled floor refresher should be applied evenly all over the floor. The key to success is an even and sparing application. Too much oil will not be absorbed and will remain tacky on the surface, attracting dirt and creating an uneven finish. The best way to apply the oil is with a clean, flat mop or a special oil application cloth, working the product into the wood grain. Start in a manageable area and work systematically across the room, ensuring a consistent layer across the entire surface.
Buffing and Absorption
Immediately following application, or as per the product’s instructions, the surface should be buffed in until all the excess oil is absorbed. Buffing serves two purposes: it helps push the oil deeper into the wood fibers and removes any unabsorbed excess that would cure into a sticky residue. Use a clean, lint-free cloth or a buffing machine fitted with the appropriate pad. Continue buffing until the surface feels dry to the touch and has a uniform sheen. Any standing oil that is not absorbed must be completely wiped away. This is the most crucial step in preventing a patchy, dirt-attracting floor. The floor then needs a period of time to cure, which can vary depending on the product and ventilation, during which foot traffic should be minimized or completely avoided.
Best Maintenance Oils
The quality of the maintenance oil is paramount to the success of the refreshing process. Using inferior or incorrect products can lead to a sticky finish, uneven wear, or even damage to the wood. The best refreshers for oiled floors are trusted, professional-grade products designed for deep penetration and lasting protection. Among the most reputable products, the amazing Chimiver Talita stands out for its deep nourishment properties and beautiful finish. Tover Rinovoil is another highly respected product, known for its restorative qualities and ease of application. Bona Wax Oil Refresher is also a premium choice, offering a blend of waxes and oils for enhanced surface protection and a consistent appearance. When selecting a maintenance oil, it is essential to ensure it is compatible with the original oil finish of your floor. While oiling can be done by anyone with a meticulous approach, it is not as easy as it looks, and in some cases, the floors get damaged due to incorrect product choice or poor application technique. Consulting with a floor care specialist can often prevent costly mistakes.
The Best Oiled Floor Cleaners
The daily and periodic cleaning of an oiled floor is what preserves the finish between major refreshing operations. Standard household cleaners should never be used, as their harsh chemicals and detergents can strip the oil and leave the wood vulnerable. The best way to clean and refresh oiled floors is with a flat mop, little water and one of the specialized oiled floor cleaners. These products are formulated to gently clean the surface while leaving behind conditioning agents that help to replenish the oil. The best oiled floor cleaners are generally pH-neutral and contain a small percentage of oil or wax for maintenance. Highly recommended products include Chimiver Lios Soft Balm Aloe, which offers a gentle cleaning action coupled with the soothing properties of Aloe. Chimiver Kronos is another powerful yet gentle option from the same reputable manufacturer. Bona Oiled Floor Cleaner is a widely available and reliable product known for its ease of use and effective cleaning. Tover Deteroil is also a premium cleaner that is specifically designed to work harmoniously with oiled and waxed finishes, ensuring the integrity of the protective layer is maintained. The use of the correct cleaner is a non-negotiable aspect of oiled floor maintenance, ensuring that the floor remains protected and beautiful for years to come.
How To Protect Your Oiled Floors
Preventative care is often the most effective form of maintenance for oiled floors. While the oil finish is robust, a few simple precautions can significantly extend the time between refreshing treatments and protect the wood from irreversible damage.
Protecting Against Damage
The most common causes of damage to any wooden floor are abrasion and impact. Please install leg protectors on all your furniture, particularly on chairs and tables that are frequently moved. These simple felt or rubber pads prevent scratches and dents. A cardinal rule for protecting the finish is to not drag heavy items on the floor, as this will gouge the wood and scrape off the protective oil layer. Furthermore, a high-quality entrance mat is crucial for trapping grit and dirt brought in from outside, as this acts like sandpaper on the finish underfoot.
Avoiding Water and Harsh Chemicals
Oiled floors, while protected, are still wood and are highly sensitive to water. Do not use a lot of water when cleaning. A damp mop is sufficient, not a soaking wet one. Standing water must be wiped up immediately to prevent it from soaking into the wood and causing dark water stains or swelling. Similarly, do not use harsh chemicals. Standard multi-purpose cleaners, bleach, and ammonia-based products will quickly dissolve the protective oil layer and dry out the wood, leading to premature wear and fading.
Rugs and Ventilation
While rugs can add warmth and color to a room, do not put rugs on oiled floors, especially immediately after a fresh coat of oil has been applied. New oil needs time to breathe and cure properly, which can take several days or even weeks depending on the product. Covering the floor with a rug during this curing process can result in the oil not hardening correctly, leaving a tacky patch that will attract dirt and be difficult to clean. If a rug is used on a fully cured oiled floor, it is best to choose a breathable rug pad and periodically move the rug to allow the underlying wood to breathe and ensure that the finish ages evenly across the entire room.
FAQ
What is the difference between oiled floor cleaning and waxed floor cleaning? While both oiled and waxed floors have a natural, penetrating finish, their cleaning requirements are very similar. Both require specialized, pH-neutral cleaners that contain conditioning agents to replenish the finish. The best oiled floor cleaners, such as Chimiver Lios Soft Balm Aloe, are often suitable for waxed floors as well because the goal is to clean gently without stripping the protective layer.
How often should I refresh my oiled floors? The frequency of refreshing depends heavily on foot traffic. In high-traffic residential areas, refreshing may be required every one to three years. In very low-traffic areas, it may be needed less often. The key indicator that a floor needs refreshing is when the surface begins to look dry, dull, and the protective oil appears to be worn away in the most used pathways.
Can I use a steam mop on my oiled floor? It is highly recommended that you do not use a steam mop on an oiled floor. The combination of intense heat and moisture can damage the wood fibers, cause the wood to swell, and prematurely strip the protective oil finish. A flat mop with a dedicated oiled floor cleaning product like Bona Oiled Floor Cleaner is the safest and most effective method.
What should I do if my oiled floor gets a scratch? One of the major benefits of an oiled floor is its repairability. For minor scratches, the area can often be spot-cleaned and a tiny amount of the maintenance oil, such as Tover Rinovoil, can be applied to the scratch with a clean cloth. After a brief period, the excess oil should be wiped and buffed away. This localized repair helps to re-saturate the wood and often makes the scratch nearly invisible without needing to refinish the entire room.
Are floor oils truly eco-friendly? Many modern floor oils are indeed considered more eco-friendly than traditional solvent-based lacquers. The floor oils are allowing natural ventilation and they usually contain less harmful chemicals. The base ingredients often include natural components, such as vegetable oils, making them a better choice for interior air quality. Always check the specific product’s volatile organic compound (VOC) content and ingredient list for confirmation.
Can I change the color of my oiled floor when refreshing it? Yes, it is possible to subtly change the color when refreshing. While a simple clear oil refresher like Chimiver Talita will maintain the existing color, you can choose a maintenance oil that contains a tint to deepen the tone or introduce a slight color shift. However, a significant color change requires a full sanding of the floor back to bare wood before applying a new, pigmented oil.
