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The Secrets to Success: Waxing Hardwood Floors

By Martin Hart on Thu 05 March 2020

Wax is one of the main ingredients to a slick looking hardwood floor and, to seal and protect the flooring, it truly is vital in the industry. It can seem like an arduous task to keep on top of your flooring and keeping it looking pristine but, with Hart Wholesale’s top tips on everything you need to know about waxing hardwood floors and the supplies and products you will need, you will be on your way to beautiful floors and happy customers in no time.

Why Wax?

The look of a wax finished wood floor is a much loved one due to its easy application, mild odour and great finish, with a low lustre. It is used to seal in the wood and its textures and protects the floor from damage, while creating a no-slip surface and essentially adding an attractive yet not over-the-top shine. As long as you apply it correctly and don’t mind keeping on top of it, it can be the perfect solution to perfect wooden floors.

Types of Wax

Several types of wax can create different looks and finishes on your hardwood floor. The following are suitable options which offer a variety of applications for diverse types of flooring:

 

• Solid Paste. Old fashioned wax in a can such as solid paste wax is suitable for unvarnished hardwood, true linoleum, unfinished cork and even concrete. However, do not use a solid paste wax on no-wax floors, vinyl, or urethane finished floors. This type of wax creates a long-lasting shine.
 
• Liquid Wax or Oil. You can use liquid wax or oil on any unvarnished hardwood, linoleum or unfinished cork. It is usually easier to apply compared to solid pastes, but the finish tends to not last as long. Do not use on no wax floors, vinyl or urethane finished floors.
 
 • Water based Silicone Polishes. Any water based silicone polish can be used on any floors apart from unsealed wood, cork or linoleum, and is in fact the only polish suitable for urethane finished surfaces. These polishes are applied in several thin coats rather than one heavier coat. It can also be difficult to dry. 

 

How to Wax 
 
• Prepare the Floor. Determine whether the floor has already been treated, and find out what type of product was previously used on it. After determining this, you need to remove the wax and choose your new type of wax around this. Remove all furniture from the area you plan to wax and tape down any edges to protect the area.
 
• Stripping the Old Finish. If you have to strip the old finish you must buy a suitable solution after having determined what finish was previously used. Alternatively, you can also buy a universal floor stripping solution. After cleaning the area using the correct PPE, you can apply the solution. Don’t forget the let the area dry completely before applying the new wax. 
 
• Waxing. After thoroughly cleaning the floor, getting rid of any dust and small particles, make sure you use a new sponge or applier to apply the wax. Make sure you only apply the wax to small sections of the floor at a time, not too thick, and make sure it is in even layers. After applying one coat, if you need more than one, make sure the first is dry before continuing.

At Hart Wholesale, we stock a range of wholesale wax in various forms. From sticks to solids and liquids, each one can be used for a different purpose and floor. If you require any wax for floorboard maintenance or to protect furniture, we can supply a great solution at an even greater price. If you require any more information, simply get in touch with our team.

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