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How To Finish Wood Floors

SEALS

Not Surface Coatings

Unlike shellac and varnish, both of which are surface coatings, most floor seals are formulated to penetrate into the wood and harden at the surface to seal the floor against dirt, moisture, stains and other foreign materials. Although wood floors are thus sealed, the actual surface of the wood is exposed to the abrasive action of footsteps unless some surface protection is provided. For this reason, constant waxing of sealed floors is necessary. If regular waxing is neglected, the wood itself is exposed and, therefore, subject to premature wear.

No Filler

Since one of its chief purposes is the sealing of floors, wood filler is rarely recommended under floor seals. If filler is used, the penetrative effect of the seal is so greatly reduced as to virtually become akin to a surface finish.

Apply Liberally

Most floor seals are applied with a brush or a lamb's wool mop. The seal is applied liberally and the correct amount penetrates after about 15 to 20 minutes. Any surplus material remaining on the surface after that period should be removed with a dry cloth or mop. After 12 to 24 hours, depending upon drying conditions, the surface is burled lightly with a power buffer, using fine steel wool; then the second coat of seal is applied. Before the second coat dries on the surface, any excess material should be removed as before. The second coat is allowed to dry thoroughly — about 24 hours — and the floor is again buffed with fine steel wool to obtain a hard, smooth-wearing surface.

Most Seals Need Waxing

The sealed floor is now ready for waxing. Paste and semi-paste waxes usually require polishing or buffing and should be applied in several thin coats. A common method for waxing sealed floors favors the application of a coat of paste or semi-paste wax over the seal and thorough buffing to provide a protective surface; then, follow as needed with maintenance coats of liquid wax.

Principally because constant maintenance is required for adequate protection and appearance, the use of floor seals is generally confined to schools and other institutions where proper waxing and buffing equipment is available, and where experienced labor in operating this equipment and in caring for the floors is regularly employed.