How to Master the Art of Floor Waxing

Floors bear witness to years gone by… Floor wax facilitates upkeep and extends the flooring’s lifespan. Although once part of a housekeeper’s duties, more homeowners are now choosing to hire professional service providers to ensure flawless results.

Whether you’re planning on DIYing it or looking for a professional to carry out the job, this handy guide will answer your questions on all floor waxing-related topics.  

Should You Wax Your Floors Regularly?

Having shiny, flawless-looking floors isn’t all about aesthetics. Proper upkeep and regularly applying a protective coating extend the flooring’s service life. 

Over time and with heavy foot traffic, floors start to lose their sheen and accumulate scratches. Even microscopic scuff marks can impede the way light reflects off your floors. After a while, dust and dirt stick to your flooring and between planks, water doesn't bead on its surface anymore, and it seems like its coating just further deteriorates, on a daily basis that is. The more you wait to take action; to repair, strip, or wax your floors, the more damaged it’ll become, and the harder it'll be to restore it to its former glory. 

What Is the Purpose of Floor Wax?

Floor varnish forms a clear, protective film, waterproofing the surface on which it’s applied. It clogs the wood, protecting the surface against scratches, liquid seeping into the material, or slimy stuff sticking to it. 

Below are some upsides to floor waxing:

• Pretty, glossy finish

• Easy upkeep

• Different quality tiers

• Several finishes (shiny, satin, matte)

• Heightened protection and increased flooring durability

• Less porous flooring, ensuring better hygiene

• More stain-resistant

• Preserves the flooring and delays the need for restoring or replacing floorboards

When Should You Wax Your Floors?

Whether waxed, varnished, or coated in an oil-based finish, striping and waxing your floors is an essential process if you’re noticing scratches, scuffs, or dirt build-up. 

While deep cleaning your floors regularly is conducive to proper upkeep, waxing them once or twice a year is recommended to restore their former shine. 

How to Keep a Waxed Floor Looking Bright

Sweeping and dusting don’t solely result in better indoor air quality. Wiping your waxed floors clean prevents dust and other grime from lodging between the floorboards or tile joints. Vacuum or sweep your floors daily. 

To preserve your floors:

• Avoid walking around your house in high heels or plastic-soled shoes that are likely to scratch or scuff your floors.

• Stick felt furniture pads beneath chair legs and other furniture that’s moved or shifted regularly, especially if you plan on dragging them across the floor.

How to Choose the Right Type of Floor Wax

There’s a wide array of floor wax products, each tailored to a different type of floor: wood, vinyl, ceramic tile, natural stone, bamboo flooring, etc. Before purchasing a product, make sure it’s suited to your flooring. Carefully read the instructions and try it out on a small, inconspicuous part of your flooring (under a piece of furniture or rug), so you don’t regret it afterwards.

Once you’ve landed on a product, choose between one of the following three finishes: 

1. Glossy: It reflects light and creates a mirror-like effect, spanning the entire floor.

2. Satin: A popular finish, qualified as semi-glossy; it has the right amount of gloss and doesn’t highlight dust or scratches.

3. Matte: Absorbs light and is similar to oil-based finishes while boasting the upsides of clearcoat finishes.

What Are the Different Types of Floor Wax?

Nowadays, varnished floors aren’t as likely to fade as a result of extended sun exposure. Nevertheless, some products make for better results.

Polyurethane Varnish

Polyurethane varnish is the most common; it’s wear- and stain-resistant, blending with the wood grain and texture. There are solvent-based and water-based (solventless) varnishes.

Aluminum Oxide or Ceramic-Based Vanishes

This type of varnish makes for a resilient, clearcoat protective film. It’s especially effective for residential purposes, often preferred for high foot traffic areas like hallways, mudrooms, and kitchens. Given that said product has a 10-year service life and requires few touch-ups, it’s also commonly used in corporate offices or industrial buildings. 

Waxed, Oiled, Oil & Wax Combo: What’s the Difference?

Bear in mind that an oil and waxed floor combo benefits from a finishing coat with both added protection and better waterproofing, boasting a natural oil. Below is an in-depth overview.

Characteristics of Oiled Floors

Natural oil merely serves as a thin protective coating. Yet it hardens the wood, deepens its colouring, and prevents it from drying out over time. Given its water-like aspect, it seeps deep within the wood, embedding itself into the grain.

Advantages

• Ultra-natural matte finish

• Doesn’t clog the wood

• Doesn’t streak the flooring

• Can be renovated in sections

• Stain-resistant

Drawbacks

• More permeable than varnish

• Not waterproof (beware of your water use when cleaning)

• Has to be reapplied routinely

• Can warp or weaken hardwood floors

Characteristics of UV-Cured Oiled Floors

UV-cured, dedicated floor oils treat flooring and give off a similar look as that of a matte varnish finish. This protective coating seeps into the wood fibres, yet doesn’t clog the wood. 

Advantages

• Genuine matte finish (once cured)

• Highlights every hardwood species

• More resilient than varnish

• Long-lasting protection

• Added stain and dust protection

Drawbacks

• Complex partial renovation process

• Yearly maintenance is recommended

• Necessitates daily upkeep

Characteristics of an Oiled and Waxed Floor Combo

Floor wax contains an oil with a wax substance that, once applied to flooring, creates a protection layer over the surface. The finish embeds into the floor’s pores, seeping into the wood.

Nonetheless, high foot traffic areas tend to wear faster and require more frequent reapplications.

Hybrid solutions, such as an oil and wax combo, make for a worthwhile option since it doesn’t streak the floor and is more durable.

Advantages

• Doesn’t clog the wood

• Stain-resistant

• Scratch-proof

• Some waxes can give the hardwood a nice colouring

Drawbacks

• More permeable than varnish

• High maintenance

• Susceptible to staining

• Wax layers build up over time

Floor Stripping: The Crucial First Step

For professional-looking results, you have to remove the layers of varnish that have overlapped and accumulated over the years. As such, the stripping stage consists of removing the wax already layered over the flooring. To do so, apply a stripper, let it sit as instructed, and then scour the surface. Doing so will lift all wax particles and dirt off the floor.

Most strippers must be neutralized by hosing the floor with alkaline water. 

How to Strip a Floor: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather all necessary tools: Two mops, scrapers, a toothbrush, and scouring pads. (Note that said tools aren’t likely to be reusable.)

2. Once the stripper was tested on a small, inconspicuous part of the floor and found adequate, dilute the product with water (if need be) based on the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Start with the farthest-most corner from the exit. If you plan on manually sanding the floor, work in small sections at a time. If you plan on using a floor-cleaning machine, instead, strip larger sections of the floor at a time.

4. Once the wax is removed floor-wide, rinse the surface with clean water.

5. Apply the stripper evenly using a mop. Use enough product to coat the surface, yet avoid flooding the area (water shouldn’t seep between the floorboards). Apply a generous amount of products where there’s a build-up of floor wax.

6. Use a toothbrush to scrub out all the residue stuck in the nooks and crannies.

7. Clean the surface thoroughly, ensuring all particles are removed and strip section by section, moving from one to the next.

How to Strip Commercial Building Floors

No matter what, follow the manufacturer’s instructions printed on the label when using a stripping solution to save time and avoid damaging the flooring. Once the stripper is diluted according to the instructions, test it on a small, inconspicuous part of the floor (under a rug or large piece of furniture) to ensure the solution won’t strip the colour out of the flooring.

In case of discoloration, try another product or hire an expert to carry out the job.

If the product works, apply it to all targeted areas. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or as indicated on the label, without it drying on the surface completely. Start scrubbing the surface with an auto floor scrubber. The scoured surfaces should gradually lose their shine, becoming duller once the wax layer is removed.

What Is the Best Way to Wax a Wood Floor? Application Guidelines

Preparation 

• Get the necessary products from the hardware store: Floor-suitable products and tools needed to prep and wax the floor.

• Remove all furniture where you plan on working.

Clean

Wash the floor before—or after repairing any flaws—to ensure dust or debris won’t stick to the wax.

Repair Flaws

• Carefully look over the area.

• Fill in cracks with a dedicated product, glue back tiles, fill in holes, and repair all spots.

Sand Floor (If Necessary)

• If the stripper left behind some of the prior finish, buff the surface with sandpaper. Applying any protective coating atop an ill-prepared floor won’t have the desired results and maintenance will be more complex thereafter.

• Start with mid-grit sandpaper and finish with a fine-grit sandpaper. You can do so with a power sander (available at equipment rental shops) for the best possible results.

• Remove dust.

Apply First Coat

• Start by applying a protective seal (sealant) to ensure the wax adheres to the floor properly.

• Apply a thin coat of wax, working with the grain, using a cotton blend, mop, or wax mop. Proceed one section at a time, starting with the furthest corner of the room to avoid walking on freshly waxed floorboards.

Dry Time

• Make sure the first coat of wax has cured before applying a second coat. Plan for a 3–6-hour drying time in between coats, depending on the product used, the humidity level in the room, and the temperature inside the building.

• Respecting the drying time is paramount. If the finish isn’t dry, it’ll remain soft, and the floor will become a breeding ground for dirt, wearing prematurely.

Polish (Optional)

Polish your floorboards using a wool cloth fitted onto a floor polisher. The process of polishing helps harden the wax and increases shock and wear resistance. 

Apply Additional Coats and Final Curing

Hardwood floors generally need 4–6 finish coats. Note that there’s very little difference between the first and third coats of wax. As long as the wood’s pores aren’t clogged, the finish won’t be perfectly smooth or glossy.

Allow for ample drying time between each coat.

Vinyl Flooring and Linoleum Flooring: How to Achieve a Glossy Finish?

VTC, or vinyl composition tile, is an extremely porous type of flooring. Applying a wax protects the floor. By sealing the material’s pores, it prevents dirt from lodging between the tiles. 

How to Wax Vinyl Flooring

Always use a product suited for vinyl flooring, also known as PVC flooring. Before waxing, thoroughly clean the floor with a well-wrung mop, damp cloth, or clean towel. Given that this type of flooring isn’t waterproof, avoid flooding its surface with liquids.

How to Make Vinyl Floors Shine

Vinyl floors can be waxed, but you don’t need to do so to achieve a shiny finish. Simply clean it with a mild soap or black soap—or consider using a made-for-vinyl product like Armstrong Shinekeeper. 

Given that some products specially designed for vinyl use aren’t compatible with floor wax, best to inquire before moving forward and be sure to test the product on a small surface first. 

How to Wax Floor Tiles

Much like any other flooring, make sure that the wax used is suited to the floor tiles and that it’ll achieve the desired results. You may have to strip and clean the floor prior to applying the first coat of wax.

Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a thin, even coat of wax using a clean new mop, starting with the furthest corner of the room. Respect the drying time before applying the next coat.

If mentioned on the product’s label, finish by adding a floor polish as it'll give the tiles a nice, long-lasting glossy finish.

How to Wax Commercial Building Floors

Before waxing the floors of a public or commercial building, cordon off the area with caution wet floor signs to prevent foot traffic. Note that the floor should also be meticulously cleaned to prevent dust and dirt from mixing with the newly applied finish.

Commercial building floors are cleaned with either a slow-speed electric floor buffer (175–350 RPM—revolutions per minute) or a high-speed floor machine (1,000–3,000 RPM).

Low-speed buffers are equipped with a spray-dispensed polisher. Such a machine allows one to repair scratches and revamp (partially, at times) the floor’s former shine. On the other hand, a high-speed floor polisher restores the flooring's gloss, relying on an ultra-fast rotation speed that heats, melts, and smooths out the finish. Flaws are then eliminated, dirt isn’t as likely to build up, and the floors stay bright and shiny.

Choosing the Right Professional-Grade, Liquid Floor Wax

Floor stripping and waxing work requires specialized equipment and products. Paying for floor waxing services means hiring professionals with the necessary know-how and floor-appropriate products to revamp your floors to shine anew.

Skills to Look for in a Professional Hire

Hiring a qualified service provider will extend your flooring’s service life. Opt for a reputable company or a referred professional tradesperson. 

Job quotes are generally free of charge and the service should allow you to save on maintenance fees over time, improving the aesthetic look of your flooring. 

Floor Wax Stripping and Waxing Cost Estimation

Note that with two workers, roughly 2,500 square feet of surface can be stripped and waxed a day. All things considered, costs very much depend on the square footage to work. Budget anywhere between $0.30–$0.60 per square foot in Canada, albeit, when dealing with a daunting project, rates can soar to $0.90 per square foot. 

How is this price discrepancy explained?

• Flooring material

• Flooring’s soil level

• Quality of flooring

• Number of workers needed to complete the job

• Amount of wax to strip

How to Remove Old Floor Wax

Removing a worn-out layer of floor wax might seem like an arduous task, but equipped with the right tools and know-how, it can be done effectively. To do so, you’ll need the following:

• Floor wax stripper

• Bucket of hot water

• Rubber gloves

• Mop or sponge mop

• Plastic or rubber putty knife

• Scouring pad (non-abrasive)

• Clean cloth/towel

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare the area: Take a few minutes to ensure the room in question is well-ventilated, grab a bucket and a trash can, and put on protective gloves.

2. Apply stripper: Apply a generous amount of floor wax stripper according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test the formula on a small, inconspicuous part of the floor first.

3. Let sit: Let the product sit for however long (see product label) to soften the floor wax.

4. Remove wax: Use a plastic scraper to remove the softened wax. For stubborn residue, gently scrub the area using a non-abrasive scouring pad.

5. Rinse and dry: Rinse the area with hot water to eliminate all floor wax and stripper residue. Dry using clean, microfibre cloths or towels.

Keeping Your Hardwood Floors Shiny After Applying Wax

Once the floors are restored to their former glory—meaning they’ve been stripped and waxed—they’ll be so much easier to clean. Routinely washing floors with suitable products prevents dust and dirt from building up, dulling the appearance of the floor covering.

Waxed floors are better protected and, hence easier to clean. There’s no time like the present to take on good housekeeping habits!

Shiny and Long-Lasting: The Hallmarks of Floor Waxing

Mastering the art of floor waxing is key to achieving a natural-looking, sought-after shine. The tips and tricks shared in this article are basically a detailed roadmap to efficient floor waxing, preserving their appeal and integrity over time. Using specifically designed products, coupled with well-thought-out waxing methods, guarantees results that are both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting. Bear in mind that waxing floors isn’t just about keeping up appearances; it safeguards the wood over time. 

FAQ

Is waxing floors a good idea?

Yes. Over time and with constant foot traffic, the floor’s protective coating wears out. Once it no longer fulfills its purpose—shielding the surface—the flooring starts deteriorating. 

Stripping or waxing floors means preserving your flooring’s shine and aesthetic appeal. Since a lot of homeowners are perfectly happy to resort to waxing only, at some point, the old wax layers have to be stripped off before a new one is applied. To revamp your flooring, you have to strip it and then apply a high-quality protective coating, one tailored to your flooring type, applying the right number of layers as recommended by the manufacturer. No more, no less.

How long does a waxed floor last?

It all depends on the flooring type and the foot traffic. Waxed hardwood floors need a touch-up after about 6–18 months, whereas unglazed floor tiles (terra cotta) need to be rewaxed every 1–2 years.