Wood impregnation in Warsaw — protection and durability

Untreated wood deteriorates fast — moisture, fungus, and UV radiation do their damage within a season or two. Decking boards turn grey, railings crack, window frames swell. Impregnation is not decoration — it is protection: oil, wax, or a lacquer-based product seals the pores and stops the wood from breaking down. We work across Warsaw — from balconies in Kabaty to terraces in Sadyba and verandas in Białołęka.

How much does it cost and what affects the price

Current prices are in the table below. The cost depends on the area to be treated, the type of product (oil, wax, lacquer, antiseptic), the condition of the wood, and the number of coats. If the surface is old, preliminary sanding is needed — that is a separate job. Tools are included. The impregnation product itself is a consumable and is charged separately.

How the on-site work goes

1. The technician inspects the wood: species, current condition, any existing finish, signs of fungus or greying.
2. Old finish is removed with a sander or by hand. If the wood is bare, this step is skipped.
3. The surface is cleaned of dust and degreased.
4. First coat of impregnation applied by brush or roller along the grain. Oil is rubbed in; lacquer is applied in a thin, even layer.
5. Drying time: oil — 6–12 hours, lacquer — 4–6 hours, wax — 2–4 hours. The technician monitors conditions (temperature, humidity).
6. Intermediate sanding with fine grit removes raised grain fibres.
7. Second coat of impregnation. Outdoor surfaces sometimes require a third.

Common customer mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Treating damp wood — moisture gets sealed inside and mould appears under the finish within a month.
• Applying oil over lacquer (or vice versa) — the products are incompatible, and the finish peels.
• Skipping sanding between coats — the second coat goes onto raised grain fibres, leaving a rough surface.
• Applying one thick coat instead of two thin ones — oil does not absorb, lacquer bubbles.
• Working in direct sunlight — the product dries too fast and cannot penetrate evenly.
• Using an interior product outdoors — the finish flakes off within a season, with no UV protection.
• Not treating the end grain of boards — moisture enters through the ends, causing swelling and splitting.

What to prepare before the technician arrives

• The surface must be dry — if the wood is wet after rain, wait 2–3 days.
• Remove furniture, planters, and anything sitting on the wooden surface.
• For a balcony — clear the workspace, take away the drying rack and mats.
• Ensure access to power for the sander.
• Decide on the finish type: oil (natural look), wax (soft sheen), lacquer (gloss and maximum protection).
• For a terrace — check that drainage works; no impregnation will save wood from standing water.
• If there is an old finish — tell us what was used before (oil, lacquer, stain).
• Ensure ventilation if working indoors — impregnation products have a strong odour.
• Plan your schedule: the surface cannot be walked on for 12–24 hours after treatment.
• Provide access details: intercom, parking.

A real case from Warsaw

A rooftop terrace in Żoliborz, 22 m² of thermally modified ash decking — the owners had left it untreated since installation two years earlier. The wood had greyed completely and developed fine surface cracks. Dirt had settled into the grain, giving it a tired, neglected look. Our technician power-washed the decking first, then left it to dry for 48 hours. After that, a full sand with 80-grit followed by 120-grit. Two coats of tinted decking oil went on with a 24-hour gap between them. The end grain of each board was given an extra coat because that is where moisture enters fastest. The whole job took three days including drying time. The result — the terrace looked brand new, with a rich warm tone and a surface that beads water instead of absorbing it. The owners now have a standing reminder in their calendar to re-oil every spring. They said it was the best maintenance investment they had made on the flat.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better — oil, wax, or lacquer?
Oil penetrates the wood and preserves the natural texture. Wax gives a soft sheen and a smooth feel. Lacquer forms a film on the surface — maximum protection but a less ‘natural’ look. Outdoors — oil or stain; furniture — wax; floors — lacquer.

How often does impregnation need to be renewed?
Terraces and balconies — every 1–2 years. Indoor furniture — every 3–5 years. It depends on wear and exposure to sun and rain.

Can you do this in winter?
Most products require temperatures above +10°C. In winter, we can only work inside heated spaces.

How long does the product take to dry?
Oil — 12–24 hours before the next coat, full cure — up to 7 days. Lacquer — 4–6 hours between coats. Wax — 2–4 hours.

Is sanding necessary before impregnation?
If the wood is new and smooth, a light sand with 120–150 grit is enough. If there is an old finish, full sanding is essential.

Does impregnation protect against fungus?
Oil and wax products — partially. For full protection, an antiseptic treatment is applied as a base layer, followed by a decorative impregnation on top.

Who does the work

Wood impregnation is carried out by experienced painters who specialise in timber. We know which product suits a terrace, which works for furniture, and which is right for a facade. We cover all of Warsaw. Call or message us — we’ll inspect the surface, recommend the right product, and arrange a convenient time.