Advantages of Using Natural Oil Finishes for Wooden Floors

12/16/2021

When it comes to wood flooring and finish, we have many different options to choose from. Whether you have solid or engineered wood floor, site-finished or pre-finished, you can opt for surface-build or penetrating oil finish. It is important to remember that all these options have their own utilities. 

Your choice of flooring as well as finish should be determined based on your specific activities. High-traffic areas of a house of office require high maintenance to ensure durability. Flooring performance is also affected by climatic conditions. While choosing the finish, it is important to strike a balance between performance and aesthetic needs. 

When it comes to wood floor finishes, natural oil is considered to be an excellent option. Oil and water-based polyurethane finishes sit on top of the wood surface to create protective coatings. Natural oils, on the other hand, tend to penetrate deep into the wooden floors to make them harder. Natural oil finishes also create a low-sheen matte effect, retaining the floor’s natural grain and texture. In this type of finish, the floor takes on the properties of the natural oil used.  

Mentioned below are some key benefits of using natural oil finishes for wooden floors. 

• If basic protection is enough for your floors, any wood floor finish will suffice. However, if you are looking for a higher level of protection, you should opt for natural oil finishes. This finish takes floor performance to another level because the seepage of oil imparts extra durability to the floor. 
• Oil finishes are highly preferred because they bring out the true essence of wood, and create a natural look that is both smooth and warm. It also provides users a sense of connection with nature as they are able to feel raw wood on their feet.
• Regardless of the type of finish you use, all hardwood floors require adequate maintenance. However, if oil finished floor is maintained properly, it will require fewer repairs and there will be no need to re-sand the floor. Polyurethane finished wood floors should be dry mopped or vacuumed and damp mopping should be avoided. The lustre of oil finished floors can be retained by regular cleaning using a manufacturer recommended cleaning product and they can be damp mopped. Please note than only non-scratching microfiber mops should be used for this purpose.
• Polyurethane finishes generally have a high concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to the environment as well as human health. These finishes also use additives with fungicidal properties. Natural oils have relatively low volatility, and hence, they cause moderate impact on the environment. Therefore, if you are an environmentally responsible individual, natural oil finishes are your best bet. 
• Ease of application is another factor behind the rising popularity of natural oil finish. While applying polyurethane finishes, a poor finish may result because of streaking, feathering, and lap lines. There is no such concern while applying penetrating oils.   

To find out more about natural oil finished wooden floors, please contact us at Enoak.