Hardwood flooring requires regular maintenance to keep it
looking its best – it has a long lifespan but needs some TLC right from the
start and frequently along the way. The longevity and condition of your
hardwood flooring will be greatly affected by the type of stain or sealer you
choose to treat it with. There are several types to choose from, resulting in
different benefits, lifespans, and aesthetics.
It’s
important to note the difference between stain and seal, so be sure to speak
with an expert to check what your floor needs. Staining can be a tricky
business and some types of flooring are not made to be stained – in fact it
can sometimes actually make scratches and imperfections more
visible.
If your floor needs to be stained, opt for a wood
or stain conditioner which is designed to control penetration or to use gel
stains. An alternative is to try a dye, but whatever you do ensure to speak
with a professional first as the last thing you want to do is ruin your
beautiful hardwood.
When it comes to sealing (which helps
to protect the floor) you have several options. Here are three of our
favorites:
1. Varnish
Our first choice is
one you’ve probably heard of and it comes in a variety of different
possibilities, ranging from super matte to startlingly glossy. The general
rule is the higher the gloss, the more durable the
varnish.
2. Polyurethane
This can be
either oil or water based and is one of the most popular sealers. This is a
good option for high-traffic areas, but can be tough to repair and tends to
darken the wood. That being said it’s very easy to
clean.
3. Oil Sealer
Oil sealer is a good
choice if you’re intending to do the sealant job yourself. It’s easy to apply
and is great at enhancing the natural shades in the wood, bringing a more
natural look to flooring. It isn’t as strong as some of the other options and
requires several coats every five years.
