Parquet Oil Treatment in Warsaw — Natural Wood Protection

An oiled parquet floor feels completely different from a lacquered one. The wood stays warm, tactile, and genuinely pleasant underfoot. In apartments across Mokotow and Wilanow, we regularly work with old parquet that has spent decades under layers of varnish, losing its natural character along the way. Oil brings it back — revealing the grain, enhancing the texture, and protecting against moisture and dirt without sealing the surface shut. If you have oak, ash, or beech parquet, oil treatment is one of the best decisions you can make for your floor.

How much does it cost and what affects the price

The cost of parquet oil treatment depends on the floor’s condition, the type of oil (hardwax oil, pure tung oil, linseed oil), the number of coats, and the total area. If the parquet was previously lacquered, sanding is required first — that is a separate job. You can find current prices for all flooring services in the table below. Consumables are included in the price; oil and main materials are charged additionally.

How parquet oil treatment works step by step

1. Floor inspection — we assess the wood condition, check for creaks, loose blocks, and existing finishes. We identify the wood species and select the right oil.
2. Coarse sanding — we remove old lacquer or previous oil layers using a drum sander. Grit range from P60 to P100.
3. Fine sanding — we go over the floor with an orbital sander at P150–P180. This opens the wood pores so the oil absorbs evenly.
4. First oil coat — applied with a stainless steel spatula or roller, worked into the grain. Excess is removed after 15–20 minutes with a microfibre cloth.
5. Intermediate drying — at least 8–12 hours depending on the oil type. The room is ventilated but kept free of draughts.
6. Second oil coat — the process is repeated. For high-traffic areas (hallways, kitchens), we sometimes apply a third coat.
7. Final buffing — after 24 hours, we buff with a polishing pad for an even, matte finish. Full use of the floor is possible after 5–7 days.

Common mistakes with parquet oil treatment

• Applying oil over lacquer without sanding — the oil sits on top in patches and wears off within a week.
• Leaving excess oil on the surface — after 24 hours it forms a sticky film that is difficult to remove.
• Using cheap oil without a hardener — the finish never cures properly and stains socks.
• Not respecting drying times between coats — the second coat lifts the first, creating streaks and uneven patches.
• Oiling at temperatures below 15°C — the product thickens, absorbs poorly, and takes twice as long to dry.
• Placing furniture on a freshly oiled floor before 5 days have passed — it leaves dents and marks in the uncured finish.

What to prepare before the technician arrives

• Remove all furniture from the room — the floor must be treated as a whole; partial oiling is not possible.
• Take off skirting boards if they cover the parquet edge — dirt often accumulates underneath.
• Ensure the room temperature is between 18–25°C — this is critical for proper oil absorption.
• Check that there is a power socket in the room — the sander requires 220V.
• Warn your neighbours about the noise — sanding takes 2–4 hours and is quite loud.
• Close doors to other rooms — sanding dust is fine and gets everywhere.

A real case from Warsaw

A homeowner in Mokotow wanted to switch their oak herringbone parquet from lacquer to oil. The floor was about 20 years old and in solid shape — the wood itself had no deep scratches or cracks, but the lacquer was worn through in high-traffic areas and had started to peel near the balcony door. We sanded off the old finish using a drum sander, then refined the surface with an orbital machine. The client chose Osmo Polyx-Oil in a natural matt finish. We applied two coats with a 12-hour drying interval between them. After buffing, the floor looked stunning — the natural oak grain came through clearly, and the surface had a subtle, silk-like sheen. Six months later, the client reported the floor was holding up perfectly. We recommended a maintenance oil application in the hallway after about a year. The takeaway: oil treatment is not just about aesthetics — it makes long-term floor care significantly easier and more cost-effective.

Frequently asked questions

Why choose oil over lacquer for parquet?
Oil penetrates into the wood and protects it from within, rather than forming a film on top. An oiled floor breathes, feels natural, and — most importantly — can be spot-repaired without sanding the entire room. Lacquer cracks and peels when damaged; oil simply wears away and is easily refreshed.

Which oil should I choose?
For residential use, we recommend hardwax oil — brands like Osmo, Pallmann, or Bona. They provide durable protection with a natural matte finish. Pure tung oil or linseed oil works well for eco-conscious projects, but requires more frequent maintenance.

How often does an oiled floor need refreshing?
In living rooms and bedrooms — every 2–3 years. In hallways and kitchens — every 1–1.5 years. Refreshing means applying a thin coat of oil without any sanding, and it takes just a few hours.

Can I oil my parquet myself?
In theory, yes. In practice, without proper sanding the result will be uneven. Oil highlights every scratch and sanding mark. We strongly recommend professional application, especially the first time.

How long before I can walk on the floor after treatment?
In socks — after 24 hours. Furniture can be placed back after 5–7 days. Rugs should not go down for at least 2 weeks.

Who does the work

Parquet oil treatment is carried out by skilled craftsmen experienced in working with natural wood floors. We cover all of Warsaw and nearby suburbs. We bring professional sanding equipment and tools. You can purchase the oil yourself, or we can source and deliver the right product for your floor. To book an appointment, call or message us — we respond within an hour and arrange a convenient time.