The Guide to Caring for Oil-Finished Parquet Flooring

Oil-finished parquet flooring adds a touch of luxury and warmth to any home. The richness of natural wood grains enhanced by oil finishes creates a timeless aesthetic that many homeowners desire. However, maintaining the beauty of these floors requires proper care. This article provides a comprehensive guide to keep your oil-finished parquet looking pristine for years to come.

Daily Cleaning

Sweeping

Use a soft-bristle broom to sweep away dirt and debris.

Dusting

Employ a microfiber mop or cloth for more effective dust collection.

Weekly Maintenance

Vacuuming

Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to pick up finer particles. Make sure the vacuum is set to the ‘hard floor’ setting to prevent any scratches.

Damp Mopping

Opt for a damp mop using a specialized wood floor cleaner that’s safe for oiled floors. Avoid using excess water, as it can penetrate the wood and cause warping.

Monthly Care: Applying a Thin Layer of Maintenance Oil for Surface Renewal

One of the unique benefits of oil-finished parquet flooring is its capacity for spot treatment and easy renewal. Applying a thin layer of maintenance oil is crucial for sustaining the floor’s integrity, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and living rooms. Here’s a more detailed look at why this step is essential and how to go about it.

Why Maintenance Oil is Important

Over time, the initial oil finish can wear off due to foot traffic, spills, and the general passage of time, leaving the wood more susceptible to damage and staining. A maintenance oil acts as a nourishing elixir that replenishes the oils lost over time, restores the wood’s natural character, and provides a protective layer against future wear and tear.

What You’ll Need

Maintenance oil compatible with your floor finish
A floor buffer or a lint-free cloth
A vacuum cleaner
Mild wood floor cleaner
Microfiber mop

Steps for Application

Preparation: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the area to be treated. Vacuum and then mop with a mild wood cleaner to remove any residues or contaminants. Make sure the floor is completely dry before proceeding.
Test Patch: Always do a test patch in an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility and satisfaction with the final look.
Application: Pour a small amount of the maintenance oil onto a lint-free cloth or directly onto the floor. Use a floor buffer or your cloth to spread the oil evenly, following the grain of the wood. Work in small sections to ensure uniform coverage.
Drying Time: Allow the oil to penetrate for the time recommended by the manufacturer, usually between 15-30 minutes.
Buffing: After the appropriate drying time, use a clean, lint-free cloth or a floor buffer to remove any excess oil and buff the surface until it shines.
Curing: It’s essential to let the floor cure for the period specified by the manufacturer, typically 24-48 hours, during which the floor should not be subjected to heavy traffic or cleaning.

By religiously applying a thin layer of maintenance oil to your oil-finished parquet, especially in high-traffic areas, you are investing in the floor’s longevity, beauty, and resilience.

Spill Management: An Essential Part of Parquet Care

Accidents are bound to happen, whether it’s a knocked-over glass of wine, a pet mishap, or a splash of coffee. When it comes to oil-finished parquet flooring, prompt and proper spill management is critical to prevent long-term damage such as staining or water penetration that can lead to warping. Here’s how to handle spills effectively:

Immediate Action is Key

The moment a spill occurs, time is of the essence. Oil-finished parquet floors are more porous compared to those with polyurethane finishes, making them more susceptible to water damage and staining. The quicker you respond to the spill, the less chance there is for it to seep into the wood fibers.

Tools Required

Soft, absorbent cloths (microfiber is an excellent option)
Mild wood cleaner compatible with oil-finished floors
Fresh water
Optional: Wood floor touch-up kit for severe stains

Steps for Effective Spill Management

Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a soft, absorbent cloth to blot up the spilled liquid. Avoid the temptation to rub the spill, as this can spread it further and force the liquid deeper into the wood.
Clean the Area: Once the spill has been mostly absorbed, you can use a mild wood cleaner specifically designed for oil-finished floors to clean the affected area. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for dilution and application.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the area with a cloth dampened with fresh water to remove any soap residue. Follow this up by thoroughly drying the area with a clean, dry cloth.
Check for Stains: After the floor has dried, examine it for any remaining stains. If a stain has set, consult your flooring manufacturer’s guidelines or consider using a wood floor touch-up kit designed for your specific type of flooring.
Reapply Maintenance Oil: If the spill was significant or acidic (like wine or juice), it might have stripped some of the protective oil. In such cases, reapply a thin layer of maintenance oil to restore the floor’s protective coating.

By following these spill management guidelines, you can protect the integrity and appearance of your oil-finished parquet flooring. Proper care will extend its life and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Periodic Maintenance

Deep Cleaning

Once or twice a year, consider a deep clean using a wood floor soap specifically designed for oiled parquet.

Re-Oiling

Depending on the wear and tear, re-oil the floors every 2-3 years. This involves a thorough cleaning followed by the application of a new layer of finishing oil.

Pro Tips

Avoid Household Cleaners: Many household cleaning products contain chemicals that can strip away the natural oils, damaging your floor.
Use Protective Pads: Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching.
Rug It: Utilize rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear.
Climate Control: Maintain a consistent indoor humidity level between 30-50% to reduce wood contraction and expansion.

Caring for oil-finished parquet flooring may require a bit more effort compared to other types of finishes, but the result is well worth it. By following these guidelines, you will not only prolong the life of your floor but also maintain its natural beauty and elegance.

TPEXA