There are many types of hardwood that may be used for flooring. You may choose birch, oak or teak because it is the quality of wood that you prefer. More than likely your choice will be determined by the texture or the grain of the wood because that particular flooring accents your room’s décor. It is the natural beauty of any hardwood that attracts attention and gives any room an essential feature of its beauty.
Since hardwood floors are chosen for their natural beauty, you may wish to refinish them so that the wood has more depth and color. Oil refinishing allows the oil to penetrate the wood so that the grains are accented, enhancing the beauty of the floor. The natural oils will give the wood a natural-looking, long-lasting shine. In addition, the oils keep the wood from drying out and cracking. Oil refinishing is very durable and gives better protection in high-traffic areas.
Oil refinishing is better for reclaimed wood and hardwood floors in older homes. Slower drying and deeper penetration of oil enhances the beauty of the antique wood. Such enhancement would not be possible with the faster drying water-based refinishing.
Oil-based refinishing is less expensive than water-based refinishing. It is easier to use, and since it is slow drying, you have the opportunity to correct any mistakes that you have made. Unfortunately, it has strong fumes that may take weeks to leave the area.
Oil-based finishes will not work on varnished or polyurethane coat. The coat may be removed with a chemical floor stripper. Apply the chemical with brush or spray, let it sit a few minutes, and then use a putty knife to scrape off the old finish.
You should then use a hand sander to remove the old stain. The next step is to use a fine grade of sandpaper to smooth the entire floor. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove all the dust particles from the floor, and apply the new coat of stain if desired. Let the stain dry for 24 hours.
Use a lamb’s wool pad to apply the Tung-oil compound over the floor. The shine will dull as the wood absorbs the oil. When it has become dull, apply another layer. Repeat the process until it no longer becomes dull. After waiting 24 hours, you should repeat the process. Repeat the process for four or five days.