Before the works
The extra wide oak engineered wood planks in this Acton home was overall looking tired and in need of renovation, even more after a recent film event shot by the BBC team on site.
During our free home survey, we did thorough inspection of the floors and discussed with the client all possible options. It was decided that gap filling is not required for this floor and finishing the floors will be in matt lacquer.
How we did it...
Engineered flooring planks come in 3 main standards of thickness, which also defines how thick is the available for sanding oak top layer of the product. Depending on the overall condition of the floors, the initial floor sanding may start with coarser or medium grid. The task of this stage is not only to remove the previous finish and get the floors to bare wood, but also to provide a good level throughout the entire floor. In the case of engineered wood flooring, the level of the floor is usually good, due the "click" or "tongue-and-groove" locking between the planks.
Sanding the floors with fine grids (80 - 120 gr) and a good rotary buff to the new oak timber surface with high grid buffing screens is the most important stage in the preparation of the wooden flooring for finishing.
Floors were consequently sealed with a coat of primer followed by 2 coats of Bona Mega water-based lacquer in matt sheen with another light screen buff between the coats, for excellent final touch to the finish.
Did you know this about oak flooring?
Oak wood is a durable and strong hardwood timber known for its distinct grain patterns and wide range of colors, from light brown to reddish tones. It has a coarse texture with prominent grain markings, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and structural applications. Oak is highly resistant to wear, moisture, and insect damage, offering long-lasting durability. It takes staining in dark, light, greys and whites well, with lacquer and oil-based finishes. Another reason that makes it the most popular timber for wooden flooring offering versatility in both traditional and contemporary designs.