Wooden floors bring style, elegance and warmth to any property. And you’ll find a greater range of designs, colours and textures than you may have realised. But whether you’re moving somewhere which already has timber flooring in place or fitting a new surface, you’ll want to make it your own. And staining is one of the most popular and easiest ways of transforming a wooden floor’s appearance.
But it’s a fairly permanent choice, so once you have made a decision, you need to be sure it’s one you want to stick with!
<h3>What exactly is wood staining?</h3>
Essentially, this is the process of altering a floor’s colour – or enhancing its natural hue via staining products and dyes. It adds both depth and warmth to the timber’s original colour, and can make it look more vibrantly unique and attractive. But it’s very important that it’s done properly, or you won’t get the end result you’re looking for. So think your project through well first – and consider whether you have the skills to do the job, or whether it might be one better left to the professionals.
You’ll need to apply a couple of layers of product, whether that’s a stain or dye. With a dye, the colour pigments fix themselves to the fibres of the wood. With stains, these pigments penetrate more deeply into the structure of the timber.
<h3>What do I need to consider before proceeding?</h3>
Quite a number of different things, in fact! For example, the type of wood involved will affect the end result. That’s because not all species absorb staining equally well. And if the species has sap, that can also make things harder.
Colour plays a role, too. For example, if a floor is naturally dark in colour, don’t expect to be able to make it beige or white. However, for lighter species you can choose from a broader palette.
<h3>What are the main pros of staining wood floors?</h3>
At its best, wood staining enhances an entire room’s beauty. Equally, your floor can become a real focal point. Or you can make a room look bigger with a light, bright staining. Additionally, you could give a space a cosier feel if you choose a product with warm undertones. Or, for drama, look to darker colours. (Admittedly, such intensity may not be to everyone’s taste.)
A darker floor creates elegance and a timeless style, with a look that’s distinctive and eye-catching. You’ll seriously enhance your floor’s existing natural beauty. And if you own a particular flooring type, but are keen to change it, staining can recreate the look of, say, a darker or more exotic timber than the one you have. Plus it can do so more easily and cheaply than if you replaced the whole surface.
<h3>Talk to Royal Stone Care</h3>
Although many of our services are to do with natural stone, we also look after wood. And we provide a range of timber treatments including sanding, staining and restoration. So if you feel staining your real wood floor is too big or tricky a job to do yourself, we understand. (And you’re certainly not alone.)
Take a closer look at our wooden floor restoration and repair services for London – and be sure you give your real wood the care it deserves.
