How to Protect and Restore Wood Floors or Furniture with a Wax Coating

There are wooden objects in any home. This could be furniture, window frames, parquet, tools. Over time, the quality of the material deteriorates and the appearance ceases to be attractive. To restore beauty and shine, it is necessary to apply a protective and restorative coating. The ideal result can be achieved through wax. The best manufacturers have filled the market with popular models for every taste. The product differs in functionality, characteristics, degree of gloss, and area of ​​application.

Scope of use and properties of the material

The product from domestic and foreign manufacturers is a protective material. A universal remedy. Has high performance properties. The main purpose is the processing of wooden bases. Used to protect:

• wooden lathing installed on roofs and walls;
• wooden floors, roofs, walls;
• wooden buildings, facades of structures built in the open air;
• panels, ceilings, furniture.

The substance is used not only in medicine and cosmetology, but also for industrial purposes. The composition of beeswax is as follows:

• fatty acid;
• esters;
• hydrocarbons.

The main quality of the material is water repellency. When the temperature rises above 20 degrees, the substance becomes less dense. Color does not have any effect on the properties of the product.

The main characteristics of the product include:

• protection from excessive humidity;
• fire resistance;
• improving the appearance of wood products;
• increasing the strength of the material;
• appearance of shine on the surface.

Why do you need to wax wood?

The bee product has the priority right to be called wax. The rest of the products are artificial products of the chemical industry. Furniture and any wooden surfaces are subject to various physical impacts. This can cause minor damage (scratches, cracks) and lead to loss of presentation. Wood tends to release vapors from the internal structure of the material into the atmosphere, which causes cracks and drying out.

Since ancient times, people have polished floors and furniture with beeswax. A layer of greasy product masked small cracks and prevented the depletion of the wood mass due to evaporation. The process of treating surfaces with wax is called waxing. For many decades there has been an increase in the need for bee products, which have become scarce. As a result, new compositions were invented that were superior in properties to natural wax.

What types of products are there?

The variety of goods on store shelves is impressive. All popular models produced are divided into three main categories:

The products differ not only in characteristics, but also in the method of application. Let's look at each group in more detail.

Liquid

Distinctive features:

• environmental cleanliness;
• complete safety for humans and the environment;
• presence of a pleasant smell;
• makes the base moisture resistant;
• helps to increase the service life of products;
• forms a durable film;
• repels dust and dirt;
• fills cracks and scratches;
• handles threads with high quality.

Application requires a spatula, brush or roller. The tools move in the direction of the grain. The consistency is convenient for application. Fills all hard-to-reach places and relief areas. The main area of ​​use is furniture processing. The application principle is as follows:

1. The surface is cleaned and leveled. For manipulations you will need sandpaper or a grinder.
2. Liquid material is applied to the base. The master chooses the tools at his own discretion. Much depends on the amount of work. If you have a large base, it is advisable to use a roller. A brush is enough to treat limited space.
3. The layer dries well. Subsequent polishing occurs using a soft cotton flap.

Solid

The main characteristics are as follows:

• increased level of adhesion;
• excellent plasticity;
• versatility;
• obtaining high-quality coverage.

Impregnation is performed in the following sequence:

1. Tools and materials are being prepared.
2. It is advisable to purchase a grinding machine, a piece of soft cloth, and a tin container.
3. The base requires preliminary preparation. Unevenness, roughness, dust, and mud stains are removed. Impregnation is applied with a brush. Flaxseed oil is often used. Subsequent drying and polishing takes place. The number of cycles depends on the condition of the surface.
4. The next step is processing the items. The composition is placed in a tin container and melted. Using a cloth, it is applied to the wood fibers.
5. Drying takes as long as indicated by the manufacturer on the product packaging. Excess is removed if necessary. After drying, wipe the surface with a clean soft cloth. If left in excess, stains may appear. To create the perfect shine, the substance is applied in several layers.
6. The final sanding is carried out using a grinder.

Colored

They are considered the best compositions. This wood material can perform the following tasks:

• make the base with the desired shade;
• eliminate minor defects;
• hide cracks and irregularities;
• make the color uniform.

Manipulation with the substance involves the following steps:

1. Preliminary preparation of the base: cleaning, sanding.
2. Applying colored wax.
3. Freezing.
4. Removing excess.
5. Final sanding.

Differences have also been identified in the number of components, and therefore the products are divided into the following types:

• multicomponent;
• one-component.

The first option belongs to the professional class and is used by experienced craftsmen. The second is quite simple and is often used in everyday life.

Based on the scope of use, the product is produced:

• for outdoor work;
• for interior work.

Its performance characteristics are different. Experts recommend that when purchasing products, you carefully study the instructions provided by the manufacturer. According to buyers, mistakes cannot be made when choosing. Otherwise, you cannot expect a positive result.

Types of compositions

Most often, the treatment is carried out not only with one wax, but usually with several formulations, which contain this ingredient.

There are three types of compositions:

1. In its soft form, wax can be used to treat the surface frequently and regularly. The coating is obtained with a thin layer, masks scratches and stains, protects against water and insect damage;
2. If you need to treat a large surface area, it is better to use liquid wax for this purpose. Can be used simultaneously with dyes of organic and synthetic origin to change the shade of wood;
3. If you have a material that needs to be restored from damage and severe breaks, use wax in solid form. It fills all unevenness well and becomes smooth with careful polishing.

The composition of such coating materials contains wax and oil. Usually they take processed products from orange or flax. Wax facilitates the penetration of the composition into the rocks, and oils create protection.

They also take wax of plant origin - carnauba. It is suitable for all surfaces that are subject to constant exposure and wear out quickly. For example, handles or steps of stairs. The composition is prepared only before application, hardens quickly and provides reliable coverage.

Advantages and disadvantages of the product used

Waxing has both pros and cons. The first list looks like this:

• emergence of resistance to high humidity;
• protection against pathogenic microbes and fungi;
• improvement of tactile sensations;
• giving the product an attractive appearance;
• creating a shiny coating;
• increase in strength indicator;
• improving resistance to external negative influences;
• restoration of the original appearance of structures;
• Possibility of use in domestic conditions and at work;
• the ability to preserve natural heat.

There are few negative points, but they are worth paying attention to:

• afraid of compounds containing alcohol;
• melts easily;
• the appearance of stains when strong drinks come into contact with the material.

Which company is better to purchase products, everyone chooses for himself. However, it is not enough to choose a good product. It needs to be applied correctly. Waxing is considered a reliable and inexpensive surface protection. Suitable for any type of wood. There is nothing complicated about manipulation. Even a beginner can master the job if he has the following devices at hand:

• hard brush;
• diluent;
• wax;
• knife;
• sandpaper;
• brush;
• a piece of soft material.

The application process is as follows:

1. Removing the surface from the old coating. A solvent is used for this. At the end of the procedure, its remnants are washed off with warm water. If there are large pieces of old paintwork, you need to use a carpenter's knife. The next stage is sanding. The cracks are also thoroughly cleaned. A stiff brush will be an indispensable assistant for manipulation. The result is a flat and smooth surface. You can proceed directly to waxing.
2. The substance is applied only to a clean and dry substrate. Using a soft cloth, the entire surface is treated, after which the cracks, corners and other hard-to-reach areas are thoroughly impregnated. A brush is also suitable for manipulation. The direction of movement is along the fibers.
3. At the end of the action, you need to give a certain time to dry. The wax must be completely absorbed, regardless of the material being processed. Residues are removed with a soft and dry cloth. It is necessary to control the application of impregnation to all hard-to-reach areas. This will help make wooden items durable, strong and attractive. To obtain the perfect shine, the composition must be applied several times.

What is polishing

As a result of polishing, the wooden surface retains its natural color and acquires a mirror shine . To polish, you need to apply a special compound called polish to the wood several times. Unlike alcohol-based varnish, the polish contains three times less resins, which makes it possible to obtain a thinner and more transparent decorative coating.

The technology for creating beautiful textures requires high-quality surface preparation, in particular grinding and removing lint and dust particles . Then the wood is treated with a primer emulsion, polished, and polished as a final step.

How to choose products

Which product is best to buy depends on many factors. The main selection criterion is the operating conditions of wooden structures. If we are talking about flooring or furniture products, then you need to give preference to models for interior work. Sometimes you have to wax products that are constantly or temporarily in the fresh air, exposed to rain and snow, wind and direct sunlight. Then experts advise paying attention to products intended for outdoor use. This type of coating is heat-resistant, will withstand any bad weather, and has increased UV protection.

It is not difficult to determine where to buy products. You can visit a specialized retail outlet. There, a professional manager will introduce you to a wide range of domestic and foreign-made goods, tell you about new products being produced, tell you what they cost, help you decide on the final option, and calculate the required volume of products.

You can order products online in an online store, while saving a little on the price. However, based on a review of user reviews, instead of expensive wax, you can get a budget, low-quality Chinese counterfeit or handicraft product from a careless supplier.

Using mixtures of different consistencies

The choice of wax mixture based on consistency depends on the texture of the wood, the depth of cracks on the surface and their number. Minor damage is taken into account.

• A liquid composition or oil wax is used for application to surfaces with a large number of microdamages, with a small penetration depth. Oil wax contains a lot of natural solvent, which makes it look like regular varnish.
• A solid wax mass is applied to the surface with deep cracks if chips have appeared.
• Due to its variety of colors, soft wax (reminiscent of mastic) is matched to the interior so that the wooden item looks in tandem with textile elements.

Manufacturers offer the wax composition in jars of different capacities. Knowing its consumption, the material is purchased once for the entire wooden structure. A small area of ​​wood is treated with a wax pencil.

Rating of quality hard waxes

Liberon Black Bison

The impregnation is colorless. Ideal for any wood. Absorbs quickly and efficiently, leaving no bald spots. Preliminary preparation of items is required. Apply to a clean and dry coating using steel wool or a brush. Distributed along the fibers. Drying time – from 2 to 4 hours. One layer is enough. Polishing is done with a rag. The composition contains pigments, additives, wax, white spirit. There is no need for dilution. It takes a day to dry completely. It is necessary to transport and store in a closed container. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and water. Storage temperature – from 20 degrees below zero to 40 degrees above zero.

The average price is 662 rubles.

Liberon Black Bison wax

Advantages:

• practicality;
• ease of use;
• versatility;
• reasonable cost;
• durability;
• functionality.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Antikwachs Borma 3420

Antique impregnation from an Italian manufacturer. Belongs to the category of environmentally friendly. It will quickly and efficiently impregnate any wooden surface, restore its original appearance, protect against water and ultraviolet radiation, and polish damaged areas. In this case, synthetic and silicone resins are not used. The price is significant, so it is purchased to cover expensive furniture. The composition contains natural mineral mountain, bees (of animal origin), as well as Carnauba (vegetable) wax.

Looks like a paste. Has excellent protective function. Completely eliminates the appearance of wood worms. Has a characteristic aroma. Dissolves in white spirit. Doesn't take water. It goes on sale in containers of 5 and 15 liters, as well as 500 ml. During storage and transportation, safety rules must be observed. At the end of the work, the jar is tightly closed with a lid.

For application, you need a prepared base, cleaned of dirt and dust, and old coating. The product is applied using a sponge, soft cloth, or brush. Direction – along the fibers. To tidy up a painted item, it is worth checking for color matching. Drying time – from 620 to 120 minutes. At high humidity and low temperature, the period of complete drying increases significantly. You should not start polishing earlier than half an hour later.

You can purchase the products at a price of 965 rubles.

wax Antikwachs Borma 3420

Advantages:

• sold in containers of different weights;
• qualitative;
• drying speed;
• excellent properties;
• protective functions;
• professional class;
• practicality;
• positive reviews.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Cera Neutral Universal Borma 0100

A universal pasty product is produced by an Italian company. It is extremely popular among domestic craftsmen. Consists of transparent synthetic and natural waxes. The main purpose is to restore the original attractive appearance of structures made from exotic tree species. The natural impregnation base does not change the original shade of the exposed base and does not allow yellow spots to appear. Does not dissolve in water. Requires compliance with safety rules during storage: dry and ventilated premises, absence of sparks and flammable substances, as well as an increased heat source. When applying, use a soft, clean patch or brush.

The average cost is 973 rubles.

wax Cera Neutral Universal Borma 0100

Advantages:

• transparent;
• convenient consistency;
• neutral color;
• no pungent odor;
• Ph level – 7.6;
• minimum consumption – 500 ml per 40 sq.m.;
• reliability;
• safety;
• packaging with different volumes;
• versatility;
• ease of application.

Flaws:

• not found.

Kreidezeit Saflor Lappenwachs (Safflower)

Today, models that are artificial mass predominate on sale. This product compares favorably with its counterparts in its naturalness, as it contains natural beeswax, the cells of which cannot be treated with chemical components. Its usual melting and purification occurs. Afterwards, wood standol and safflower oils are added to the mass. The main purpose is the processing of wood structures. Yellowness does not appear over time. The wood retains its original shade for a long time. Ideal for cladding, doors and furniture. Not intended for flooring. The walls are covered with one layer. Minimum flow rate – 36 ml/m.

Purchase price – 5540 rubles.

wax Kreidezeit Saflor Lappenwachs (Safflower)

Advantages:

• naturalness;
• safety;
• ease of use;
• long service life;
• excellent protective characteristics;
• presence of diffusion abilities;
• no solvent;
• antistatic properties;
• perfect surface gloss.

Flaws:

• the price is not acceptable for everyone.

Kreideziet Lappenwachs (patchwork)

The product is made on the basis of beeswax, not treated with chemicals. After melting and purification, the product is ready for use. The composition contains wood standol and linseed oil. Designed for interior work. Able to cope with primed natural substrates. Improves the quality and appearance of doors and furniture. The walls are covered with one layer. The drying agent does not contain lead. Maximum flow rate – 45 ml/m.

Purchase price – 3880 rubles.

wax Kreideziet Lappenwachs (patchwork)

Advantages:

• antistatic properties;
• ease of use;
• durability;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• makes the surface shiny;
• presence of diffusion abilities.

Flaws:

• none.

Kreidezeit FuBbodenhartwachs

High quality flooring product. Has excellent diffusion properties. Strengthens the surface and penetrates deeply into pores. At least two layers must be applied. The result is a silky shine on the floor. Gives additional strength to the base. One of the components is Carnauba material. The thin film repels water after complete drying. Withstands significant loads. Retains its original characteristics for a long time. Suitable for processing furniture, walls, ceilings, doors, staircases. Maximum consumption – 20 g/m. Easy and simple to apply. The process does not require experience or skill. You don't have to resort to professional help.

Retailers are asking 2,230 rubles for the product.

wax Kreidezeit FuBbodenhartwachs

Advantages:

• water- and dirt-repellent qualities;
• beautiful silky shine;
• convenient ointment-like consistency;
• presence of antistatic properties;
• unique diffusion abilities;
• reliability;
• long service life;
• functionality;
• naturalness;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Chic, shine - beauty

What can and should be polished, with what and in what way are exciting questions for those who want or are forced to take up this difficult but fascinating task. Polishing wooden products - brand new walls or a restored countertop - performs an aesthetic and protective function (see also the article “Underlay for a wooden floor: purpose, types and installation features”).

Pros and cons of varnish

Take a closer look, you are surrounded by many things made of wood, the treated surface of which shines or glows matte:

• decorative crafts;

From knight to queen - everything is varnished

decorative cutting boards, spoons;
• walls/floors;
• furniture;
• laminate (there are also such fans).

But polishing wooden products is not always appropriate and safe, this includes:

• spoons, if they are intended for food and not decoration;
• kitchen knives - a very smooth handle is more difficult to hold, and if dropped, the decorative layer will inevitably crack;
• gun stocks (for the same reason).

The stock is impregnated with linseed oil

Finishing agents

The choice of varnishes is huge and each of them has its own specifics:

• luxury furniture is coated with alcohol - their price is high, the most luxurious varnish is shellac;
• alkyd – wear-resistant, used to cover parquet;
• acrylic – fragile, requires re-application;
• polyurethane and alkyd with the addition of fungicides are good for outdoor use;
• water-soluble are remarkable for the absence of harmful fumes;
• solvent-based, resistant to detergents, but does not ozone the air;
• oil - cheap, “healthy”, but gives the surface a yellowish color;
• nitro varnishes dry the fastest - from 15 to 25 minutes, give a strong shine and are very durable.

A few words about wax

As already mentioned, the use of varnish or polish is not always advisable - for dishes and children's furniture it is better to use drying oil or wax paste. It’s great that it’s not difficult to prepare wax paste at home, and the main ingredient can be bought from “honey cakes” at the bazaar.

The wax paste can be made liquid or solid at will, depending on the amount of turpentine - solvent. In the classic version, the components are mixed in a 1:1 ratio. The wax is heated in a water bath, but a microwave is also suitable, then turpentine is poured into it with constant stirring until a homogeneous consistency.

Note! The procedure for preparing the material yourself at home will require increased safety measures. Be sure to have ventilation and no sources of fire - turpentine has a pungent odor and is highly flammable.

Wax and almond oil in a 1:1 ratio

If you choose any oil as a solvent, you will get an absolutely harmless substance, suitable for treating even children’s furniture. The proportions will be slightly different: wax and olive oil – 2x6/8; with jojoba oil – 1:3.

The manufacturing instructions will be slightly different:

• grate the wax;
• mix with oil;
• heat and stir.

Wood polishing wax is used to restore color on old items and enhance it on new ones, as well as to remove worn stains. If you add orange or jasmine essential oil at the mixing stage, a magical aroma will linger in the room for a long time.

Rating of the best liquid ointments

Tikkurila Supi Saunavaha

Protective agent based on natural ingredients. Purchased for covering wooden elements in saunas and baths. Ideally fits on ceilings, walls, shelves, window frames, doors. Penetrates deeply into the material, forming a dirt- and water-repellent film. The appearance of blue stains and mold is completely eliminated. Available in white, black or grey. Belongs to the category of environmentally friendly materials. There is practically no smell. Hazardous components are not released into the atmosphere even at high room temperatures. Water is used as a diluent. To apply, you must have a foam brush or sponge. Preliminary surface preparation is required. Does not require careful care. Easily and simply wipe off dust and dirt with a damp cloth.

The average cost is 1100 rubles.

wax Tikkurila Supi Saunavaha

Advantages:

• inexpensive products;
• practicality;
• low consumption;
• ease of use;
• convenient packaging;
• safety;
• environmental cleanliness;
• harmlessness.

Flaws:

• afraid of sub-zero temperatures.

Liquid Wax Rustins

Liquid emulsion is sold in small bottles. It is non-toxic. Not flammable. Produced from Carnauba and beeswax. Suitable for old and new furniture. Apply to a clean surface. The previously coated layer is removed using a special cleaner. Not intended for untreated wood. It is extremely popular among domestic consumers. The reviews are positive. You can purchase it at specialized retail outlets or order it online in an online store.

Purchase price – 650 rubles.

liquid wax rustins

Advantages:

• safety;
• reliability;
• practicality;
• wear resistance;
• application speed;
• ease of care.

Flaws:

• none.

Teknos Teknowax 1160

Industrial impregnation is intended for walls, ceilings, doors, planks and panels. Intended for internal use only. A vacuum painting machine can be used as a sprayer. The result is an improvement in the water-repellent properties of the surface. Consumption – 15 g/l. The diluent is water. Before starting work, the products must be thoroughly mixed. It is intended to be stored in a hermetically sealed container at a temperature of 10 to 25 degrees Celsius.

The average cost is 21,078 rubles.

wax Teknos Teknowax 1160

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• penetrates into hard-to-reach areas;
• does not leave stains;
• excellent water-repellent properties;
• ideal protection against ultraviolet radiation;
• reliability;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Carnaubawachs Emulsion

The products are designed to restore the original appearance of floor coverings that have been exposed with oil. The method of application is quite simple: when washing floors, add 3 tablespoons of the substance to the water. It is enough to perform the manipulations once every 7 days. The use of the product improves the diffusion properties of wood and extends its service life. Mechanical damage and surface scratches are not dangerous. For smooth floors, the volume of emulsion used can be reduced to 2 tablespoons. For application, you can use a soft brush or cloth. Fuzzy patches should be avoided. Curing time must be taken into account.

Retailers offer the model at a price of 1,790 rubles.

Carnaubawachs Emulsion wax

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• convenient container;
• excellent water- and dirt-repellent characteristics;
• has antistatic properties;
• diffusion capacity at a high level;
• a beautiful shine appears;
• quickly and easily dissolves in water;
• the drying period is short;
• there is no pungent odor;
• safety;
• environmental cleanliness.

Flaws:

• not found.

Biofa – 2063

The universal liquid impregnation dries in 4 hours. Designed for opening cork and wood. In production, only natural ingredients are used - waxes and oils. No solvents. Belongs to the category of environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic. Shows increased resistance to mechanical damage and scratches. Wear resistance is impressive. It stands out among its peers for its unique water- and dirt-repellent, as well as antistatic properties. Resistantly tolerates increases in room temperature up to 100 degrees.

Has no color. After application, a silky matte film is obtained. The pores remain open, so the surface “breathes”. Penetrates deeply into wood, enriching it with natural high-quality components. Helps maintain elasticity and structure for a long time. After drying, a beautiful honey shade appears on the surface. Pre-treatment of the base is required. It is advisable to do this with oil. Otherwise, stains may appear.

Impregnation is intended for interior use only. Used as an additional coating to increase the wear resistance of staircases, furniture, and floors. There are several application options: using a brush, disc machine or soft cloth. The surface becomes silky. Dries completely within 24 hours.

The purchase price is 603 rubles.

Biofa wax – 2063

Advantages:

• unique properties of the composition;
• naturalness;
• safety;
• practicality;
• drying speed;
• restoration of the original appearance of products;
• long service life;
• safety;
• functionality.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Cooking methods

It's time to talk about how to prepare oil-wax at home and what components are required for this. For greater convenience, we will give the mass fraction of the ratio of ingredients. Follow this recommendation and you will be able to prepare a high-quality product for treating wood floors.

Wax, turpentine and rosin

This composition is ideal for furniture because it allows you to create a special protective film, thanks to which dust does not harm the surface of the wood in any way, and a characteristic coating does not form on top.

This became possible thanks to the addition of turpentine. It makes the composition not so thick, which simplifies application and allows you to work with the surface as much as necessary.

Rating of the best colored waxes

Biofa - 2087

If you decide to purchase a product under 2000 rubles, take a closer look at this model. The product is intended for covering ceilings, various decorative elements, and walls with a protective layer. Belongs to the category of wax-water emulsions. No solvent is used in production. The choice of shades is impressive. You can choose any color scheme. After complete drying, the base can be polished. This will create an amazing shine. Impregnation belongs to the category of antistatic. Suitable for interior work. The film begins to form within an hour, until it dries completely you will have to wait 4 hours. Consumption – 16 sq.m/l. The smell is neutral. Restores the original appearance of yellowed wood varieties. Tinting provided. Complete safety is noted, and therefore the substance is used to restore the attractiveness of children's toys. The surface is matte.

Purchase price – 1369 rubles.

Biofa wax – 2087

Advantages:

• practicality;
• ease of application;
• restores the original appearance of products;
• safety;
• environmental cleanliness;
• absence of chemical components;
• drying speed;
• reliability;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• none.

Decorwachs Borma 4585/4586

Impregnations from an Italian manufacturer. The production is based on Carnauba wax and natural material. Scope of application: protection of wooden structures located indoors, creation of Decape and Shabby effects, formation of a protective layer. Suitable for application are untreated substrates, as well as surfaces that have been pre-treated with oil or varnish. It looks like a paste. The range includes 6 shades. Drying is carried out in 10 - 30 minutes. Excess is removed with a napkin.

The average cost is 964 rubles.

wax Decorwachs Borma 4585/4586

Advantages:

• reliability;
• safety;
• functionality;
• ease of use;
• versatility.

Flaws:

• not found.

Sigma – Colored wood wax

Product manufacturer: Sigma - color. Has excellent characteristics. Impregnation can protect structures from mold and mildew, as well as ultraviolet radiation. Has high water-repellent qualities. Can be used for external and internal work. Glazing composition. Penetrates deeply into any wood species. Apply with a brush. Made exclusively from natural ingredients.

Purchase price – 800 rubles.

Sigma wax – Colored wood wax[

Advantages:

• ease of application;
• pleasant aroma;
• modest spending.

Flaws:

• none.

In conclusion

Every day, throughout our lives, we subject things to tests - touches, impacts, placing them in the scorching sun or a damp terrace. Often, thanks to a decorative coating, it is possible to preserve/restore furniture, decorative elements or objects of art for a long time.

If you want to get super gloss on your furniture, the video in this article will reveal all the secrets of this process.

Wood, as one of the most popular materials for the manufacture of furniture, requires a special finishing that will emphasize its natural beauty and extend its service life .

This process is called polishing. Of course, it is difficult to perform , takes a lot of time, and all actions must be carried out very carefully. Despite the difficulties, polishing wood allows you to create a glossy surface , the main thing is to know the subtleties of the process.

Making your own wax polish

Craftsmen offer several polishing recipes that contain beekeeping products. The resulting mixtures can be liquid, solid or paste-like.

Recipe No. 1. Turpentine mixture for polishing

It is turpentine that is the traditional solvent for beeswax in the manufacture of polishing mixtures. It is better to purchase wax from trusted beekeepers to be sure of the quality of the bioactive compound.

Algorithm for preparing polishing:

1. The wax is crushed into pieces and melted in a water bath.
2. Carefully pour the same volume of turpentine into the melted product, stirring all the time.
3. The resulting composition should be poured into a plastic or glass container, into which it should harden.

Despite its natural origin, turpentine, when heated, can cause damage to the eyes and skin, damage to the respiratory system and the central nervous system if its vapors are inhaled. This is why many craftsmen prefer to use oils as a solvent.

Recipe No. 2. Emulsion with vegetable oil

In this case, natural fatty oil substances, such as olive oil, are used as a basis. Its mixture with beeswax is an excellent polishing agent suitable for processing all types of wood.

To make it you will need to stock up on:

• beeswax (about 30 grams);
• olive oil (approximately 100-120 ml).

The wax is crushed, mixed with an oily substance and placed to melt in a water bath. The mixture has a pleasant honey aroma, but to enhance the aroma, you can add, for example, jasmine or citrus oil. As soon as the future polishing is ready, it is poured into containers.

Stages of work

The wood polishing process consists of several stages. In order for the surface to look perfect after polishing, it must first be sanded, then covered with a layer of primer and only then thoroughly polished.

Surface grinding

This procedure does not cause any particular difficulties, but it takes a lot of time to give the tree a perfect look.

The surface must be free of chips, burrs, cracks and other defects. First, the wood is treated with sandpaper No. 46-60, then with abrasive material No. 80-100 and finally sanded with sandpaper No. 140-170.

After sanding, the wood becomes clean, smooth, without protruding fibers or lint.

Padding

At this stage, the prepared wood is primed using shellac polish and a linen swab. It is not recommended to use cotton or wool fabrics for these purposes; they leave behind small fibers and lint, which are clearly visible on the polished product.

To apply the primer, put a small amount of polish on a swab and begin rubbing in different directions. With this approach, small cracks and pores are most effectively filled, and impregnation occurs better.

Note! First, make a smear on a test surface. The polish should dry quickly and not form bubbles. If there is a lot of it, then the excess is removed by wiping the test surface.

The primed product is left to dry for 2-3 days. After the varnish has dried well, it is necessary to sand the wood with a fine-grained abrasive material. The resulting dust is removed with a rag.

Polishing

After priming, the so-called polishing is performed. A couple of drops of vegetable oil are applied to a tampon made of linen fabric (this facilitates easier sliding) and a little liquid shellac polish is poured. For work, you can further dilute the shellac-based composition (usually an 8% solution is used).

Place the tampon on the side and make smooth circular movements. Polishing is carried out in three passes, where each layer must dry, sand with fine-grained sandpaper and be cleaned of dust. A slight gloss can only be seen after applying the third layer of the product.