Before the works
The pine parquet flooring in the main hall of Oak Farm Primary school was in need of repairs and restoration. During our free site survey, we did thorough inspection of the floors and discussed with the client all possible options.
Our client has decided to go for gap filling, some repairs, application of white lines (tennis) and finishing the floors in commercial grade lacquer from Bona - Bona Traffic HD in Matt sheen.
How we did it...
The flooring restoration begins with detailed inspection of the floors and any parquet flooring repairs are completed where blocks are missing or movement is noticed. In this project approx. we have refitted approx. 3-4 sqm of parquet flooring.
Parquet flooring restoration requires years of experience, skills and the right floor sanding equipment. Depending on the overall condition of the floors, the initial parquet floor sanding may start with coarser or medium grid. The task of the stage if 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. Some older floors may require more thorough work at this time.
Next stage in the process of parquet floor sanding was the application of the gap filling. We aim apply resin filler in the end of the working day, so it settles properly overnight and we can repeat on following day, if in some places this is required. Gap filling is highly recommended for parquet blocks, as the resin filler reduces gaps and keep moisture away from the base, therefore increasing the solidness and the lifespan of the flooring.
Gap filling is after that removed by next stages of the floor sanding process in medium grids.
Sanding the floors with fine grids (80 - 120 gr) and a good rotary buff to the new pine timber surface with high grid buffing screens is the most important stage in the preparation of the parquet flooring for finishing.
Colour samples were provided on a sanded surface for the client to review and approve for the stage in the hall, which was also reastored as part of the works. The client decided to go with Dark Oak colour from Morrells range of light fast stains.
Parquet flooring and the stage were consequently sealed with a coat of primer and 3 coats of Bona Traffic HD 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.