Do your parquet floors look boring? Revitalize them with a coat of varnish.
BobVila.com and its affiliates may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Photo: amazon.com
Most hardwood floors take a lot of wear and tear, not only from people walking on them, but also from children and pets. However, a good floor polish can revitalize and restore hardwood by filling in unsightly scratches and adding shine.
But not all parquet finishes are suitable for all floor types, which is why manufacturers make specially formulated finishes for different floor types and surfaces. Fast-drying and environmentally friendly varnishes are also available.
To help you choose your options, this guide outlines important features to consider, as well as some of the best parquet finishes categorized by type.
- BEST OVERALL: Polishing and restoring Weiman hardwood floors
- Best Value for Money: Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Finish .
- BEST FOR RESTORATION: Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer
- BEST FOR HIGH GLOSS: Bona Floor Polish, High Gloss
- BEST FOR LOW GLOSS: Bona Floor Polish, Low Gloss
- BEST FOR QUICK DRYING: Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Shine
- BEST FOR URETHANE SURFACES: Bruce Fresh Finish Floor Polish
- BEST POLISH/CLEANER COMBINATION: Orange Glo 4-in-1 hardwood floor cleaner and polish
Photo: amazon.com
What to consider when choosing the best stain for hardwood floors
The wrong floor polish can damage hardwood floors, so finding the right product is important. When looking for the best hardwood floor stain, there are a few factors to consider, including the type of hardwood floor, the stain's formula , strength, finish, ease of application, and drying time.
Type wooden floor
Manufacturers produce a variety of different types of hardwood floors, so be sure to verify the exact type of hardwood floor before deciding on a polisher. Wooden floors can be solid wood, engineered wood or wood-like laminate .
Using the wrong polish may not produce the shine you want or may result in an uneven appearance. In the worst case, the paint can even damage the floor so badly that it has to be repaired by a specialist. If you are unsure about the type of floor, choose an all-purpose polish that works for each type.
ingredients
Various ingredients are used to make hardwood floor polishes. Some contain toxic substances such as ammonia; aromatic solvents such as benzene or toluene, phenol, turpentine, petroleum distillates (also known as naphtha or mineral spirits), silicones, trichloroethane and synthetic polymers. If you are concerned about possible toxicity, use a Greenguard- certified, US EPA Safer Choice, or non-toxic polish.
Other ingredients are waxes such as carnauba wax, also known as brazil or palm wax. Although this ingredient creates shine, over time it can cause buildup and even attract dirt.
Some floor waxes also contain a scent, which is largely a matter of personal preference.
concentration
Some hardwood floor polishes are sold in a concentrated formula that must be diluted before application. Others need to be applied with a damp mop, while some products are applied straight from the container.
If the product needs to be diluted, avoid soaking the mop in water as water can damage hardwood floors, even finished floors. This can cause the wood to warp or swell, reducing the life of the floor, and excess water can result in uneven polish application or a scratched surface.
For best results with most hardwood floor polishes, use a damp mop and wring it out thoroughly during application.
End
Find out about the type of parquet surface before deciding on a floor polish. Glossy floors scatter light, resulting in a glossy finish. Medium gloss finishes can emit some light, but less than high gloss. Low gloss and matte floors are the least glossy.
To find out what type of finish your floor has, run a few tests. If a few drops of mineral oil fall on the floor in a clean but inconspicuous spot, it is likely coated with a fine cleaning varnish, usually water-based. However, if the oil beads up and then wipes off easily, the floors are probably sealed with shellac or varnish.
If the floor has an amber hue, it is likely treated with shellac. To identify a wax surface, scratch a coin in an inconspicuous area. Some of the wax will transfer to the part if it has a wax finish. A penetrating oil finish, which is the most difficult to see, seals the wood and brings out its natural colour, but it is not easy to see. After you identify the finish, check the product label to make sure the product is safe before applying it.
Improper polishing of hardwood floors can dull the surface or make it look too shiny or dull, which could require professional help, a costly mistake.
Simple application
Not all nail polishes are applied equal. Some polishes require a microfiber mop while others can be applied with a sponge mop. If you're using a microfiber mop, make sure it's new or has been recently washed. A dirty microfiber mop can embed dust or dirt in the paint layer.
When using a sponge mop, remember that even seemingly clean sponges contain crevices that can hide dirt. If you plan to frequently polish floors with a sponge mop, reserve one solely for this purpose.
For the best results, read the label directions on how to use that particular product. Clean and dust floors before applying polish.
dry season
Also consider the drying time and the time that must elapse before the part can be used after polishing. Some encaustics take an hour to dry while others can take a day or more.
Estimated drying time should be stated on the product label. Once the polish has dried, it is generally safe to walk on the floors in socks. However, most manufacturers recommend waiting until the next day to put the furniture back in the room.
Some hardwood floor polishes can emit hazardous fumes when drying, so keep the safety of roommates, people, and pets in mind when considering drying times.
Our best tips
With so many options on the market these days, we've researched and reviewed many of the most popular products to create this list of some of the best hardwood floor polishes. Regardless of the finish, gloss level or condition of the floor, either of these can be a valid option.
overall better
For a single product that can both clean and restore hardwood floors, Weiman Wood Floor Polish and Restorer may be your best option. Designed for high traffic areas, it uses micro-fill technology for scratches and helps prevent new scratches from forming.
In households with children and pets, which often have hard floors, this non-toxic solution produces no harmful fumes. Formulated to be safe for the whole family, the no-rinse product saves time and energy. Parquet floors look shiny and new just 30 minutes after application.
Product Specifications
- Size: 32 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: Yes
- Drying time: 30 minutes
advantages
- Polish and restore
- easy to distribute
- It also removes scratches.
Disadvantages
- Do not use on waxed, unsealed or untreated floors
the best bang for your buck
Maintaining hardwood floors can be expensive, but Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Finish is easy on the wallet. It works not only on hardwood, but also on laminate, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), luxury vinyl planks (LVP), tile and stone floors. Recognized as a "Safer Choice" product by the US EPA, it is made without potentially harmful ingredients including aluminum, ammonia, formaldehyde, fragrance, parabens, phthalates and gluten.
Available in a large 64-ounce bottle, this polish adds a protective layer to wood and fills in micro-scratches, making it a quality choice for high-traffic areas and busy homes. However, it does not clean the floor, so users should clean the floor before applying.
Product Specifications
- Size: 64 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: Yes
- Drying time: 30 minutes
advantages
- Recognized safest option; safer for children, pets, the environment
- Glossy finish
- Fast drying time
Disadvantages
- The floor must be cleaned and dusted before use.
Get Quick Shine Floor Finish at Amazon and Home Depot .
ideal for hospitality
Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer & Polish fills scratches, seals and protects hardwoods that have been sealed with a urethane-based finish. This varnish bonds to the current finish and helps resist future stains. Does not form wax accumulations.
After cleaning the floor and removing dust and dirt, apply the liquid with a microfiber applicator in the direction of the grain. After one hour the surface is safe for light foot traffic. Apply a second layer after approx. 2 hours. One bottle covers up to 525 square feet.
Product Specifications
- Size: 32 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Dry Time: 1 hour for circulation with shod feet; 24 hours for other purposes
advantages
- Fill in the scratches
- Accessible after 1 hour
- No wax formation
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for laminate floors, sealed acrylic floors, waxed or oiled floors
- Apply with microfiber only (no cotton, string or sponge mop)
Ideal for high gloss
Where once shiny floors appear a little dull these days, Bona Wood Floor Polish can even out the finish.
Safe for all unwaxed, unoiled and polyurethane-treated hardwood floors, it restores flooring by filling in micro-scratches from pets, heels or furniture and adding a protective layer. Contains an additive that inhibits the growth of unwanted particles such as mold, bacteria and fungus.
This Greenguard certified product is free from parabens, phthalates and for those concerned about indoor air quality, it is low in VOCs. The floors can be walked on after 1 hour and the paint is fully cured after 24 hours. A bottle only covers 500 square feet, so measure the floor space before you begin.
Product Specifications
- Size: 32 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Dry Time: 1 hour for circulation with shod feet; 24 hours to heal
advantages
- Green Guard Certificate
- Prevents the growth of mold, bacteria, fungi.
- Fills in micro-scratches
Disadvantages
- Floors must be clean before use.
- The floor cannot be covered with polyurethane after use.
Get Bona Low Sheen Wood Floor Polish at Amazon , The Home Depot , and Lowe's .
Ideal for low shine.
In recent years, matt and matt floors have become fashionable. However, this flooring can be scratched and damaged more easily than high gloss flooring. Using the right type of floor wax is crucial. Safe for use on clean, wax-free, polyurethane-coated wood floors, this Bona hardwood wood polish creates a slight shine and adds a protective layer while sealing scratches.
This formula is Greenguard certified and can also help maintain a clean home with its antimicrobial formula that inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria.
Product Specifications
- Size: 32 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Dry Time: 1 hour for circulation with shod feet; 24 hours to heal
advantages
- Provides antimicrobial protection.
- Green Guard Certificate
Disadvantages
- It takes 24 hours to fully cure.
- Only for floors with a polyurethane finish
Ideal for quick drying.
Polishing hardwood floors can be time-consuming, but Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Cleaner dries in under 30 minutes. This EPA-approved Safer Choice product is designed to be safe for use around children and pets and is free of aluminum, formaldehyde, fragrance, parabens, phthalates and gluten.
Carnauba Wax is formulated with carnauba wax, which adds shine and UV protection, and helps floors withstand foot traffic. Carnauba wax tends to build up and attract dirt over time.
Product Specifications
- Size: 64 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Drying time: less than 30 minutes
advantages
- dries quickly
- US EPA safer choice product
- Some herbal ingredients
- Use with pad or mop
Disadvantages
- Wax can accumulate and attract dirt.
Get Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Cleaner at Amazon and Home Depot .
Ideal for urethane surfaces.
On urethane-pretreated hardwood floors, Bruce Fresh Finish Floor Polish fills in scratches and leaves old, damaged or tarnished floors looking fresh and fresh.
Just clean hardwood floors, grab a mop and apply carefully according to the manufacturer's instructions. After 180 minutes of drying, the floors shine with a new shine with a silky matt finish. A 32 ounce bottle can cover up to 500 square feet. However, do not use Bruce Fresh Finish on floors that have been waxed or treated with oil-based products.
Product Specifications
- Size: 32 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Drying time: 180 minutes
advantages
- easy to use
- semi-gloss finish
- Fill in the scratches
Disadvantages
- Pretty long dry season
The best combination of polish/cleaner
Most floor polishes require a separate product to clean the floor, but Orange Glo 4-in-1 Hardwood Floor Cleaner & Polish eliminates that extra step. It is designed to polish, shine, protect and revitalize hardwood floors.
Orange Glo also repairs scratches and protects floors from water damage. With a fresh orange scent, this polish dries in about 15 minutes, leaving a long-lasting shine even in homes with pets or high traffic. Cleans stubborn stains and leaves no residue. Although it cannot be used on waxed, oiled, aged, unsealed, laminated, pretreated, or constructed wood, it can be used on furniture, cabinetry, and wood paneling in addition to hardwood floors.
Product Specifications
- Size: 24 ounces
- Suitable for multiple surfaces: No
- Drying time: 15 minutes
advantages
- orange smell
- multiple use
- Requires no cleaning before use
Disadvantages
- not ecological
- Not everyone likes the smell.
- Not for waxed, oiled, weathered, unsealed, laminated, pre-treated or engineered wood
Get Orange Glo hardwood floor cleaner and polish at Home Depot and Walmart .
Our opinion
For most typical hardwood floors, Weiman Hardwood Floor Polish offers fast drying time, fills in scratches, and is safe for family and pets. However, to polish different types of floors and save money, Quick Shine Floor Finish can be the right choice. Works with wood, laminate, LVT, tile and stone floors; it has a similar drying time; and it is safe for children and pets.
The best polishes for wooden floors
Several factors went into selecting the products for this guide. We research popular products from national retailers and consider the brand's reputation in the flooring or cleaning categories. Another concern was the safety of families with children or pets.
We have researched eco-friendly products as well as paints that are suitable for a variety of surfaces. We also looked for those that offer additional benefits such as: B. the ability to fill scratches. Finally, we take into account the value of the product and its ability to cover a reasonable number of square meters.
Tips for using parquet polish
There are a number of factors to consider when using a floor polisher. First, make sure you're buying the right polish for that particular type of hardwood. For example, floors with a glossy finish may require a mirror finish. If floors have a lower gloss, choose a low gloss formula.
Before you begin, estimate the square footage of the room in order to purchase enough icing. To get square footage, multiply the length of the room by the width.
Although not stated on the product label, it is preferable to vacuum or sweep floors prior to applying polish. If you don't clean the floor properly, the stain can be applied unevenly or the floor can be scratched or even permanently damaged.
- Buy the right kind of polish.
- Make sure you have enough product to buff the entire floor.
- Clean floors before polishing.
frequently asked questions
Applying a coat of floor wax helps restore the shine of hardwood floors without the need for professional sanding or finishing. To learn more about how best to polish hardwood floors, read on to find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
Q. What is the best product for hardwood floors to make them shine?
Polishing makes floors shine, but cleaning hardwood floors will help achieve maximum shine.
Q. How often should I polish my hardwood floors?
To look good, parquet floors need to be polished every 2 to 4 months. However, homes that receive less foot traffic can last longer.
Q. What safety precautions should I take before polishing my hardwood floors?
Be sure to remove all furniture from the room before polishing the floor, which may require an extra person.
Q. What results can I expect after polishing my hardwood floors?
The floor should be shiny and smooth, but it can take hours or even a day or two for the varnish to fully dry and cure.
Q. Is it better to clean or polish hardwood floors?
You should always clean hardwood floors before polishing them. Polishing hardwood floors helps them look good for a long time.
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire