Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Oil Based Penetrating Finish - Water Spots

We have recently remodeled our entire home and installed European Oak parquet (12 x 120 cm engineered laminate) throughout the 3 stories of the house. We worked closely with the architects and the floor installer to make sure we had the correct wood, color and finish. See picture of kitchen: http://www.paulpuente.com/reinach13/reinach160.htm

The architects and the floor man said that the finish he selected would work everywhere in the house, including the kitchen. After moving in we found that the slightest drop of water on the floor caused spots. Since we still have workmen tromping in and out and there is snow on the ground outside, the floor is a disaster.

The floor was stained first and then a penetrating hard wax oil was applied. The product is NATURHAUS-Hartwachsoel (a German product), but essentially it is a linseed and carnuba wax based penetrating oil system.

We have a meeting with the floor man and the architects in a few days time to sort out the problem, but I would like to know the experience of others with this type of finish and what can be done to minimize the spotting problem. Any top coat products available, etc. Also, what should I demand from the floor contractor and the architects in terms of the assurances they gave us about the finish and its use throughout the house.

Paul
Reinach, Switzerland

Water on wax finish will usually leaves white spots. Spots may respond to buffing. If not, spots can be waxed out with more wax.

Thanks twelvepole

We're meeting with the floor guy in a day or so, and I'll ask him about your suggestion. I'm sure that it is probably the only way to remove them. I just don't know if we have to keep repeating the procedure over and over if we continue to get white spots everytime a little water spills on the floor. I hope not.

Paul

Find out the finish manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and maintenance of floor finish.

Will do, thanks again for the info.

Paul

Yes, with a wax finish you have a lot of up keep and maintainence to keep it looking good. Urethane is much more hassle free.


I remember my Grannie always waxing the wood floors in her house. Seemed like every Sunday after church.