The key to getting a good result when varnishing a parquet floor is first and foremost good sanding. The parquet floor is sanded in three passes with an increasingly fine grain, the last sanding must be done in the direction of the wood grain for parquet laid in the English style or in the direction of the light for non-parallel patterns such as mosaics. The first two sandings of the parquet floor will be done using a drum sander.
First pass to sand a parquet floor : coarse grain (24 to 40) allows to remove small irregularities of the parquet floor as well as possible stains. It is done in 2 passes diagonally to the wood fibers thus avoiding too much abrasion of soft woods.
Second pass for sanding a parquet floor : medium grain (50 to 80) prepares the surface for finishing sanding and is done transversely to the first sanding.
Final pass for sanding a parquet floor: is done with a single brush and a fine grain (100 to 120) in the direction of the wood fibers or in the direction of the incidence of light. The finer the grain, the smoother the surface will be.
1. Preparation for Sanding
1. Preparation for Sanding
Sanding is crucial to prepare the surface:
- First pass: Coarse grit (24 to 40) – Removes irregularities and dirt. Sand diagonally to the wood fibers.
- Second Pass: Medium Grit (50 to 80) – Prepares the surface for finish sanding by sanding perpendicular to the first pass.
- Third Pass: Fine Grit (100 to 120) – Sand in the direction of the grain or light to achieve a smooth surface.
2. Cleaning and Protection
After sanding, thoroughly clean off the dust, then protect the skirting boards and other adjacent elements.
3. Applying a Hard Base Coat for the Varnish
Before varnishing, applying a hard primer coat helps to better prepare the wood and strengthen the adhesion of the varnish. We recommend:
- Plastor Fond Dur H2O – Accentuates the natural grain of the wood.
- Plastor Bare Wood Effect Undercoat – Provides a perfect base for a clear, natural finish, without changing the wood tone.
Apply a hard base coat, allow to dry, then sand lightly with fine sandpaper to smooth before varnishing.
4. Application of Water-Based Varnish
After the hard base coat, apply two coats of varnish for a durable finish. Choose from the following varnishes:
- Plastor PUR-T2 – Resistant even for high traffic areas, single-component, quick drying, easy to use.
- Plastor Duopur T3 – two-component product reserved for professionals, ultimate resistance even for high traffic areas.
- Herbol PU-Siegel – Versatile and ideal for various finishes.
Allow 2-3 hours to dry between coats.
5. Alternative Option: Oiling a Parquet Floor
Oiling is an eco-friendly alternative that allows you to maintain a natural look while protecting the wood. The oil penetrates the fibers, allowing the wood to breathe for a warm and elegant finish. Here are our recommendations:
- Auro PurSolid 123 Hard Oil – Provides long-lasting protection by highlighting the natural grain of the wood. Drying: 1 night
- et-effet-bois-nu.html">Plastor Huile Parquet Effet Bois Nu – Offers a raw wood effect without changing the color of the wood and an authentic feel, easily applicable with a roller. Drying: 2 to 3 hours
The oil is applied in two or three coats, depending on the desired appearance and protection. Wipe off excess after each application to avoid any sticky residue and allow to dry thoroughly between coats.
6. Maintenance and Drying
Regardless of the treatment chosen, allow the product to dry completely before using the piece. A full curing time of 7 days is ideal to ensure the durability and protection of the floor.
Do not wet or clean for the first two weeks.