Hardwood floors add an unparalleled elegance to any home, but over time, even the best floors can start to show signs of wear. This was the case for a custom oil-finished floor we recently rejuvenated in San Diego. Installed five years ago, the floor had begun to lose its lustrous oil finish in high-traffic areas like the entryway, kitchen, dining room, and hallways. The wood was starting to dry out, signaling it was time for some expert care.

The Solution: Professional Oil Recoating

Our team stepped in to restore the floor’s beauty and durability without the need for sanding or refinishing, which can be both time-consuming and costly. Here’s how we did it:

  1. Thorough Buffing: We began by buffing the existing floor to smooth out any minor imperfections and prepare the surface for a new coat of oil. This step is crucial for ensuring the new oil adheres properly and evenly.
  2. Deep Cleaning: Next, we super-cleaned the floor to remove all dirt, dust, and any remnants of the old oil finish. A clean surface is essential for achieving a flawless finish.
  3. New Oil Application: Finally, we applied a fresh coat of oil to the floor. This not only rejuvenates the appearance of the wood but also provides a protective layer that helps preserve the floor’s longevity and makes it easier to maintain.

Benefits of Oil Recoating

Recoating with oil offers several advantages:

  • Maintenance Made Easy: Regular recoating keeps your floors looking fresh and new, reducing the need for more extensive maintenance like sanding or refinishing.
  • Cost-Effective: Oil recoating is a more economical option compared to a full refinish, saving you both time and money.
  • Preserves Floor Value: Properly maintained floors retain their beauty and value, enhancing the overall appeal of your home.

Timing and Frequency

For oil-finished floors, it’s generally recommended to recoat every 1 to 5 years, depending on the quality of the initial factory application, level of foot traffic and overall usage. In homes with high traffic areas, like the one in our San Diego project, periodic maintenance every couple of years is ideal to keep the floors in top condition.

Our Process

In this particular project, we focused on the main areas affected by wear. We pulled back area rugs to access the high-traffic zones and conducted a thorough buffing and cleaning before applying the oil finish. Our next trip will involve a full furniture pack-out and applying a fresh coat of oil to the entire home, ensuring a uniform look and optimal protection for all the hardwood surfaces.

Contact Us

If your hardwood floors are starting to show signs of wear or dryness, don’t wait until more extensive repairs are needed. Contact us today to schedule your oil recoating service and keep your floors looking their best. Our expert team in San Diego is ready to bring back the beauty and elegance of your hardwood flooring.