For the maintenance of recent parquet floors, a little soapy water or a damp sponge is sufficient. But old parquet floors can warp because of water. Depending on whether it is varnished, waxed, oiled, slightly scratched or very damaged, maintenance must therefore be adapted. It is done in two stages: first a cleaning phase, then protection with a suitable undercoat.
How to maintain an old varnished parquet floor?
Old varnished parquet (also called vitrified parquet) is the easiest to maintain. First, you must dust the wood using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a brush attachment. Then comes the cleaning stage. This must be carried out twice a year with a sheepskin on which natural soap is placed.
What maintenance for an old waxed parquet floor?
Conversely, old waxed parquet flooring is the most difficult to maintain and preserve. The use of wax to protect the wood means that washing it with water is strongly discouraged. In fact, this would create stains that would have to be removed by sanding the affected area. For cleaning, polish to be applied every six months is recommended.
Protecting an old parquet floor with sanding and a dedicated product
If despite this regular maintenance the parquet floor is still damaged, sanding is necessary. Once the baseboards are protected, simply use a conventional sander. However, you must be careful to sand in the direction of the slats to avoid scratching the parquet. Sanding should restore the original color of the wood. Then you have to dust everything off before applying a protective undercoat or a special wood varnish.
Read also :
⋙ Painting for parquet: mistakes to avoid
⋙ Comfort, resistance, ease of maintenance… choose the right parquet floor
⋙ Which parquet floor should I choose for my bathroom?