How to Refinish Hardwood Floors With Wax

Beeswax is a natural alternative to traditional hardwood floor varnish.

Hardwood floors are often treated with a natural wax to provide a polished finish. This protective coating is an organic alternative to more commercial wood varnishing products that contain chemicals. Floor wax typically requires several applications to build a lasting coat, and is easily marked by water and residue because of its slightly sticky texture. The hardwood floor will eventually require refinishing to restore the wax and preserve the condition of the wooden surface.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• White spirit
• Steel wool pad
• Propriety polish remover
• 100-grit sanding sponge
• Beeswax
• Painter's rag

Instructions

1. Dampen a soft cloth with white spirit and rub it over the hardwood to remove the existing layer of wax. The clear chemical solvent dissolves the finish and prepares the floors for reconditioning.

2. Apply more of the white spirit as needed until the majority of the wax has been removed. Gently rub the wood with a fine steel wood pad in the direction of the wood grain, removing the stubborn remainder.

3. Follow up with a proprietary polish remover to eliminate stains, marks and fine scratches from hardwood. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the solution, which provides a clean foundation for the new finish.

4. Sand the floors with a 100-grit sanding sponge to smooth the wood and ensure optimal adhesion for the wax. Wipe the floorboards thoroughly with a tack cloth to remove the sawdust.

5. Apply an even coat of wax to the floors using a painter's rag or foam brush, following the direction of the wood grain. Beeswax is the most widely used choice of wax finishes and is available in various colors to suit your preference.

6. Wait for the recommended time on the product label before applying a second coat of wax. Once the first application has cured, apply a second layer using the same method to build a durable, lasting finish.

References

• Britain.TV: Waxing and Oiling Wood
• Popular Woodworking: Finishing for First-Timers
• Reader's Digest: How to Stain and Finish Natural Wood