Oil -v- Lacquer
Herringbone, chevron, or wide plank flooring - whichever you've chosen, there's one final step in completing your dream floor. Although often an afterthought, choosing the right finish for your wood is extremely important.
The two most popular wood flooring finishes are lacquer and oil, both of which have their own benefits, and advantages. Read on to decide which option is best for you.
Lacquered Finish
A lacquered finish has many pros.
Aesthetic appeal
Lacquer enhances the natural beauty of wood that brings out the grain and colour of your flooring. This can improve the overall appearance of your space, giving you a polished and professional look.
There are several options when it comes to a lacquered finish: high gloss, gloss, or matt. As lacquer is coated on top of the wood, there will always be a degree of shine. It's subject to personal preference as to how much sheen you desire. It's easy to create a beautifully pristine and glossy surface through this finish.
Maintenance
A lacquered wood floor is easily maintained, and cleaned. The smooth, sealed surface prevents dirt and debris from penetrating the wood, allowing for easy sweeping and mopping. Lacquer works as an added protective layer, therefore making it ideal for a room with heavy footfall. Working as a temporary water-resistant film, if attended to promptly, the varnish won't let liquid seep through the wood's surface.
Sunlight resistance
If you're lucky enough to anticipate a high level of sunshine through the room, this coating is ideal as it will work as a UV filter, avoiding potential fading.
Although very strong and hard-wearing, a lacquered finish is not indestructible. It's vital to invest in a quality barrier matting if the wood is to be laid in an entrance, to aid with the removal of soiling and moisture.
Lacquer can help to resist dents and scratches. But if it's likely that objects will be moved or dragged across the floor, it's possible that a lacquered finish will show up scratches more than an oil finish.
Caring for lacquered flooring
With the lacquer sitting on top of the wood rather than sinking in, over time the wood could become exposed, and open to damage. Because of this, we would suggest daily sweeping or vacuuming to keep it looking its best.
With regards to washing and mopping, lacquered floors typically have a fast drying time, allowing you to use your floor again more quickly afterwards.
Oil Finish
Just like lacquer, an oil finish will protect the surface of the wood. The biggest advantage of oil over lacquer, is that it provides a deeper defence, penetrating the wood.
While it's inevitable that the external layer of the wood will wear over time, opting for an oil varnish will help maintain the knots and layers beneath.
Aesthetic appeal of oil finished flooring
A big difference between an oiled and lacquered finish, is the aesthetic and final look produced. In terms of appearance, oiling the wood will give you a really natural look. Whilst it won't have a smooth and sleek appearance, oiling appears matt and seems "barely there", showcasing the beauty of the wood.
Oiled wood retains its natural feel underfoot, providing a more organic and comfortable walking surface compared to the harder, more plastic-like feel of some varnishes and lacquers.
Eco-friendly
Many wood oils are made from natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals, making them an eco-friendly option compared to some synthetic finishes.
Non-slip surface
Oiled wood floors tend to be less slippery than lacquered floors, making them a safer option, especially if you have children or elderly people in your household.
Improved moisture resistance
While oil does not create a surface barrier like lacquer, it does make the wood more resistant to moisture by filling the wood pores, which helps to prevent water penetration and related damage.
Breathability
Oil allows the wood to breathe, which can help to maintain its natural moisture balance and reduce the risk of warping or cracking over time.
How oiled flooring ages
Over time, oiled floors develop a unique patina that adds character and depth to the wood. The natural aging process is often considered a desirable feature, enhancing your floor’s aesthetic appeal.
Maintaining your oiled floor
Although an oiled wood flooring may need more regular care and upkeep than lacquered, it's unlikely it will need high-impact maintenance. It's a straight-forward process when an oiled floor needs attention, and any damage can be repaired locally. Refresher oils can also be supplied by Eaton Square, if required.
If you still need help deciding, get in touch with one of our specialists today. A member of our team will be more than happy to talk through the options in relation to your specific needs and requirements, ensuring your wood flooring lasts a lifetime.
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