LIGNOLUKS varnishes belong to a group of varnishing systems used to achieve protective films with top-quality properties. Here we primarily refer to top-quality gloss provided by LIGNOLUKS parquet varnishes (100% gloss) and outstanding mechanical properties (wear resistance, durability, etc.). The best result with LIGNOLUKS varnishes is achieved at a work temperature of 18° to 22°C and relative humidity of 65 to 75%.
3 steps to a perfect floor
After laying the parquet, if we choose the right varnishing system, the appearance and quality of the varnished parquet will also depend on the preparation of the substrate. We recommend 3 steps that will ensure a job well done and save time and money:
- sanding
- puttying
- varnishing
Most parquet workers and floor layers (varnishers) have been applying these procedures for a long time, and on this occasion, we will try to explain what can happen if a certain step is skipped or not done correctly.
Sanding
Preparation of parquet for varnishing includes sanding in several stages (rough and fine) and filling joints between parquet boards. These are very important activities, as they represent a basis for a better job. By sanding the parquet, the parquet surface is leveled and smoothed. Attention should be paid to the direction of sanding. If the parquet in question is newly laid, the sanding should be started only when the parquet is stabilized and when other works in the space are already finished. The microclimatic conditions should be taken into account.
Poorly sanded floor surface cannot be hidden by varnishing. Attention should be paid to the sanding machine and the sandpaper used (it must be sharp and unused). Why? Using worn sandpaper can result in burnt wood and traces of sanding. As a rule, parquet is sanded with three granulations of sandpapers, i.e. in three degrees:
- rough sanding (sandpaper no. 36-40)
- intersanding (sandpaper no. 60-80)
- fine sanding (sandpaper no. 100-120)
Puttying
After intersanding, puttying is carried out using a grout made with fine wooden dust. LIGNOLUKS Parquet Filler is a quickly-drying colourless liquid which, with the addition of fine wood dust, creates a mixture ideal for puttying joints and small cracks in a laid parquet. We recommend using wood dust from sanding wood with polishers, rather than belt sanders, as the latter leave dust of fibrous structure which may prevent deeper penetration of the prepared mass into the joint. If you are forced to use dust from belt sanders, we recommend that it be made of the finest sandpaper (no. 150). The proportion of wood dust and LIGNOLUKS Parquet Filler is ambiguous and depends on the parquet worker. The puttying process for larger joints has to be repeated, as the mass can sink to the bottom of the joint (first with a thin mixture, and then with a thick one).
Varnishing
You would think there is nothing more to say about this procedure, but taught by experience and cooperation with parquet workers, we have concluded that everyone has their own theory and works differently. Still, we have our rules and we can guarantee there will be no problems with varnishing if you comply with them. The classic varnishing is most often carried out in three stages, i.e. 3 layers of varnish are used. Following this method, you obtain a thicker film of dried varnish that ensures longer gloss and quality. Disadvantages of this system:
- varnishing takes at least three days
- high price
In order to accelerate the process and make the varnished surface look more beautiful, we recommend systems with LIGNOLUKS primers. These products are applied as basic varnishes in the first layer of varnishing and the main advantages are:
- the surface is dry in 20 min to 2h
- it replaces one layer of varnish
- the system is cheaper
- varnishing lasts no more than two days