Wooden flooring lacquered or oiled?
Wooden flooring is a synonym of elegance and prestige, characterised by high durability and long lifespan. Wooden floors are protected with either lacquer or oil against mechanical damage and the harmful effects of external factors.
Lacquered wooden floors are the most popular way to protect wood from damage
Lacquered wooden floors are resistant to mechanical damage, dirt, and moisture. Lacquers come in various finishes – from high gloss to deep matte, including super hard and flexible options. The level of gloss does not affect the durability of the lacquer coating. Wooden floorboards protected with super hard lacquers (popular in the USA) are less resistant to chipping when heavy, sharp objects fall and scratches are more visible – appearing as white marks. Lacquered flooring with a flexible lacquer is less prone to mechanical damage. Wooden floors are easy to clean and maintain.
Oiled wooden floors
The oldest method of maintaining wooden flooring is oiling. Oiled wooden flooring preserves the natural beauty of wood by impregnating the surface and protecting it against dirt and moisture. Oiled floors are pleasant to the touch. Oiling enhances the colour, grain, and texture of the wood – making the floor more expressive and visually rich.
Oiled wooden floors are less resistant to mechanical damage than lacquered floors and are also slightly more demanding in cleaning and maintenance. However, oiled boards can be spot-repaired in areas of wear or damage.
Lacquered or oiled wooden floors, regardless of the thickness of the wear layer, can be regenerated multiple times without the need for sanding, significantly extending their lifespan while maintaining their original aesthetics.
Lacquered or oiled flooring – what to choose?
So which type of floor finishing should you choose? If you have small children or pets and your home experiences intensive daily use, lacquered flooring is the better option due to its higher resistance to damage. On the other hand, for those who prioritise aesthetics and avoid heavy usage, oiled flooring is an excellent choice as it enhances the colour and grain of the wood.