How To Wax Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a classic and elegant addition to almost any home. Unfortunately, they can lose their shine and may start to look dull over time. That’s where waxing comes in. Waxing your hardwood floors is a cost-effective way to bring back their natural luster and to protect them from scratches and wear and tear. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of waxing your hardwood floors like a professional.

Should you use polish or wax?

The decision to polish or wax your hardwood floors depends on the type of finish they have. If your floors have a protective coating, like urethane, polishing is the way to go. But, for floors with penetrating finishes like tung oil or unsealed wood, waxing is the better option. Knowing your floor type is key to ensuring longevity and proper maintenance. Don’t risk damaging your floors, make the right choice for their specific needs.

Unsure how your floor is finished? Identify it quickly and easily with two simple tests. First, rub the surface gently. If it feels slightly oily and you can feel the wood texture, it’s probably a penetrating finish. A urethane finish will have a smooth feeling instead. Secondly, scratch the floor in an inconspicuous area with a coin or sharp knife. When chips appear after scratching it, your floor has a urethane finish. A smudging effect suggests a penetrating finish. Now that you know how your hardwood floor is finished, you can make the right decision about its maintenance and care.

Which type of hardwood floor wax should you use?

There are several types of hardwood floor waxes available, each with its own unique qualities.

• Paste wax is the traditional and most common option, providing a durable and protective finish that lasts up to 5 years. It must be applied by hand with a cloth or pad due to its thick consistency, making it more labor-intensive.

• Liquid wax contains more solvent and can therefore be applied with a mop or cloth. It’s easier to use and dries quickly but may require more frequent application and only lasts 1-2 years.

• Hard wax oil is a popular modern option, providing a hard-wearing finish with the added benefit of oil penetration. It’s a liquid that can be applied with a mop and last 2-4 years.

You want to avoid water-based waxes, as hardwood floors tend to not like water. Use the solvent-based ones instead.

Buffable waxes are usually better than their ‘one-step’ counterparts. The latter ones often mix with dirt, making it a gooey and dirty mess instead of a great shine.

Steps to Wax Hardwood Floors

Products and Tools Needed:

• Hardwood floor cleaner
• Soft-bristle broom or vacuum
• Wax stripper
• Microfiber mop
• Wax applicator pad or rag
• Hardwood floor wax
• Electric floor buffer (optional)

Step 1: Remove rugs and furniture from the floor

First you need to remove all the rugs, furniture and other things that can be removed from the room.

Step 2: Clean the floor

Before waxing it, you have to clean your hardwood floor first.  Make sure it is swept or vacuumed thoroughly to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris. You can use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with hard floor setting. 

Step 3: Apply wax stripper

Apply a small amount of wax stripper on a manageable area of the floor, like 3-foot by 3-foot. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the stripper you choose to use. Let the stripper soak in for the allotted amount of time. Use a clean, damp mop or rag to wipe away the stripper and the old wax. It’s essential to remove all old wax from the floor before applying a new coat of wax. Repeat this step until the entire floor has been stripped. 

Step 4: Apply the wax

Always work in small, manageable sections. If you choose liquid wax, you can pour a small amount of wax directly onto the floor. Use the wax applicator pad or rag to spread the wax evenly. You can also apply the liquid wax on the rag which gives you some more control. When using paste wax, you need to put the wax on the rag first. 

Apply the wax in small, manageable sections and follow the grain of the wood. Make sure you reach all nooks and crannies. Be careful not to leave any excess wax on the floor. Allow the wax to dry completely before applying another coat or walking on it.

Step 5: Buff the Wax

After each coat has dried, use a clean, dry cloth to buff the wax to a shine. Rub along the grain of the wood until you have the desired result. You can speed up the process by using an electric floor buffer. This can be used on any type of wax to buff it.

It’s essential to wait several hours after buffing until the wax is completely dry before replacing the furniture, or you could accidentally remove the coat you just applied. Once the wax is completely dry, your job is done!

Waxing your hardwood floors does require some time and effort. However, the shine and luster of your protected, waxed floor makes it all worth it. Following this step-by-step guide, the waxing process should be a breeze. Remember to always read and follow manufacturers’ instructions for any products or tools used. With a little bit of patience and some elbow grease, you can have beautiful hardwood floors that last for years to come.