When it comes to choosing a finish for your timber flooring or wall panelling, there are several options to consider. One of the most popular choices in recent years has been hardwax oil, and Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak is a top contender in this category. This article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of hardwax oil, compare it to other finishes like traditional oil and polyurethane, and provide an in-depth review of Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak.
Advantages of Hardwax Oil
Hardwax oil is a natural product that penetrates the timber to seal and protect it. It offers several benefits over other finishes:
- Non-toxic and low odour: Hardwax oil is safe to use and has a minimal odour during application.
- Natural look: Hardwax oil enhances the natural beauty of the wood, with a warm sheen and depth of colour that highlights the character and grain of the timber.
- Stain-resistance: Hardwax oil, particularly Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak, has the added benefit of stain-resistance compared to traditional oil.
- Hard-wearing: Hardwax oil provides excellent water resistance and durability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Easy to apply and maintain: Hardwax oil can be applied by hand, even by non-professionals. It is also easy to repair areas of damage, such as scratches, by buffing and blending with the surrounding floor.
- Quick-drying: Some hardwax oils, like Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak, dry in as little as three to four hours, allowing for multiple coats in one day.
- Water-repellent and dirt-resistant: Hardwax oil creates an open and breathable finish that repels water and resists dirt.
Disadvantages of Hardwax Oil
While hardwax oil offers many benefits, it also has a few downsides to consider:
- Not as long-lasting as polyurethane: Hardwax oil is not as hard or long-lasting as polyurethane, so it may require more frequent recoating in busy traffic areas.
- Requires more frequent cleaning: Oiled floors may require more frequent cleaning with special soaps compared to other finishes.
- Higher viscosity: Hardwax oil can be more labour-intensive to apply compared to other finishes, although some brands, like Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak, may only require one or two coats.
Comparison to Traditional Oil and Polyurethane
While both traditional oil and polyurethane are popular choices for timber finishes, hardwax oil offers a unique combination of natural beauty and durability:
- Traditional Oil: Traditional oil is a natural product that darkens the colour of the wood and provides a very natural look. However, it is not as hard or long-lasting as hardwax oil or polyurethane, and requires more frequent recoating in high-traffic areas.
- Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a synthetic resin that provides a durable, plastic-like barrier over the surface of the wood. It is considered the most durable finish on the market, but it does not offer the same natural look as oil or hardwax oil. Polyurethane can also release harmful vapours during application and requires moving out of the space until the smell dissipates.
Which is the Best Hardwax Oil?
There are several brands of hardwax oil available on the market, each with its own unique characteristics. In a recent comparison test, several hardwax oils were evaluated for sheen, abrasion resistance, liquid resistance, skin-over time, and repairability. The results showed that Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak performed well in terms of sheen, with a warm and consistent finish. It also exhibited good water resistance and was easy to repair. However, it is important to note that all hardwax oils in the test provided similar overall performance.
Sheen Testing
Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak was found to have a warm sheen that enhances the character and grain of the wood. It had a decent amount of gloss even after just one coat, and showed a significant improvement in sheen after a second coat.
Liquid Testing
Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak demonstrated good liquid resistance, with minimal damage after exposure to different liquids for 15 minutes. While it is important to clean spills promptly, the oil provides protection against common household liquids.
Repair Test
Hardwax oils, including Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak, are known for their repairability. While no repair is perfect, hardwax oils allow for spot repairs without the need to sand back the entire surface. Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak performed well in a repair test, although the repair was still visible from certain angles.
Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak offers a natural and durable finish for timber flooring and wall panelling. It provides a warm sheen and enhances the natural beauty of the wood, while also offering good water resistance and easy repairability. While there are other options to consider, such as traditional oil and polyurethane, hardwax oil offers a unique combination of natural aesthetics and durability. Consider the use of the space, desired aesthetics, and maintenance capabilities when choosing a finish for your timber, and Blanchon Hardwax Oil Smoked Oak may be an excellent choice.
Disclaimer: This article is a guide only and does not substitute advice from design and industry professionals. It is recommended to consult with a professional to discuss project-specific requirements.
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