What is the best finish for wooden Maple floors, and is Maple a good choice?

When it comes to selecting the perfect natural wood paint, or natural wood oil and wax finish for maple floors, the process can be quite daunting with the numerous options available in the market. This comprehensive guide aims to help you find the best solution for your specific needs by delving into the various Auro Paints products designed for this purpose.

Factors to Consider

Before choosing the ideal finish for your maple floors, consider the following factors:

1. Colour Intensity: Do you want to intensify the colour of your floors or keep them as close to their natural colour as possible?
2. Solvent-Free or Solvent-Based: Are you looking for a solvent-free option or are you open to using a solvent-based product for better results?

What is the best finish for wooden Maple floors, and is Maple a good choice?

Solvent Free Options for Maple Floors

For those who want a solvent-free finish, Auro Paints offers several options to suit different preferences:

To Intensify Colour on your maple wooden floor

There are two main options for intensifying colour in your maple flooring with natural floor oils and waxes

1. Using Auro 123 Hard Oil: Apply 2 coats of Auro 123 Hard Oil (clear) for a durable finish, or use 1 priming coat of the Auro 123 followed by a thin layer of Auro 171 Hard Wax for greater durability.
2. Using Auro 125 One-off Oil-Wax: Typically, 1 coat of Auro 125 One off oil wax is sufficient, but a thin second coat or a thin coat of Auro 171 Hard Wax can be applied for enhanced durability.

To Retain Natural Colour on your maple wooden floor

Again, we offer two solutions to retain the gorgeous natural colour on your maple flooring.

1. Using the Auro 109-90 One-off Oil Pigmented White (AKA Natural): Apply 1 coat of the Auro 109-90 One off oil, with the option of a thin second coat or a thin coat of Auro 171 Hard Wax for increased durability.
2. Using the Auro 187 Water-Based Wood Wax: Prime the maple with Auro 127 Hard Primer, then apply Auro 187 wax and then polish within 60 minutes of Auro 187 application . If needed, repeat the treatment with Auro 187 thinned in water up to 50% after 24 hours.

Solvent Based Options for Maple Floors

With maple being a hardwood, it is also worth considering the solvent-based products.  The solvent makes oils thinner (less viscous), meaning they soak into the wood more readily, and some people find that makes them easier to work with than the more viscous Auro 123 and Auro 125.  The solvent means higher emissions (they are still chemical free and natural) and stronger odour (still perfectly acceptable) but it is of course all still natural.

For those open to using solvent-based products for better penetration and workability, Auro Paints offers the following solutions:

1. Classic 126 Hard Oil Clear: The classic Auro 126 is the “old generation” version of the Auro 123 Hard Oil Clear, it may require more coats than the 123 unless sealed with Auro 171 Hard Wax.
2. Classic 126-90 Hard Oil Pigmented White: The “old generation” version of the Auro 109-90 One-off Oil Pigmented White, it may require more coats than the 109-90 unless sealed with 171 Hard Wax.

Just email us if you want the 126, as we don’t hold stock of it due to being replaced by the Auro 123!

Testing the Products

As each floor and preference can vary, it is highly recommended to purchase tester pots and test the chosen products on a small area before proceeding with the main application. This will help ensure that the final result meets your expectations and requirements.

Summary

Selecting the right finish for your maple floors can be a challenging task. However, by considering factors such as colour intensity and the type of product (solvent-free or solvent-based), you can make an informed decision. Auro Paints offers a wide range of solutions, both solvent-free and solvent-based, to cater to different needs and preferences. Remember to test the products before full application to achieve the best results for your maple floors.

Choosing Maple for Your Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide

Maple flooring has long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a durable and visually appealing option for their living spaces. This hardwood flooring material, sourced from the Acer genus of trees, boasts a multitude of benefits that make it an attractive choice for various settings. In this article, we will explore the reasons why one would choose maple for their floors.

Durability and Strength of maple floors

Maple is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability, making it an ideal flooring option for high-traffic areas. With a Janka hardness rating of 1450, it is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods available, providing excellent resistance to wear and tear. Maple flooring can withstand the demands of daily use while maintaining its structural integrity and visual appeal for years to come.

Timeless Aesthetic Appeal

Maple flooring is prized for its unique and elegant appearance. It features a subtle grain pattern and a smooth surface, lending a clean, minimalist look to any interior. The natural colour of maple ranges from a creamy white to a warm, light brown, which complements various design styles, from traditional to modern. Additionally, maple floors can be stained or finished in a variety of shades, offering homeowners the flexibility to customise their flooring to match their desired aesthetic.

Versatility

The understated beauty of maple flooring allows it to blend seamlessly with a wide range of interior design styles and colour palettes. Its light, neutral colour makes it an excellent choice for smaller spaces, as it can create the illusion of openness and airiness. Furthermore, the subtle grain pattern of maple does not compete with other design elements, making it a versatile flooring option that can adapt to changing trends and personal preferences over time.

Easy maintenance of maple wooden flooring

Maple floors are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only routine cleaning and occasional refinishing to maintain their beauty and performance. Regular sweeping, vacuuming, or damp mopping can effectively remove dirt and debris, while periodic refinishing can help restore the luster of the floor and protect it from potential damage. Additionally, maple’s natural resistance to moisture and stains makes it a practical choice for busy households.

Is maple wood sustainable for wooden flooring?

Maple is a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option, as it is sourced from abundant and renewable North American forests. The responsible harvesting and manufacturing practices in the maple flooring industry ensure that the environmental impact is minimised. By choosing maple, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful, durable floor while supporting sustainable forestry practices and contributing to the conservation of natural resources.

In summary, maple flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing option for their living spaces. Its remarkable strength, timeless appeal, low maintenance requirements, and sustainable nature make it a valuable investment that can enhance the beauty and functionality of any home. When selecting the right flooring material, maple should undoubtedly be at the top of your list.