Timber flooring and worksurfaces are a wonderfully natural way to add warmth, character and sustainability to your home.

Choosing wooden surfaces, whether for a room revamp or whole home project, is also a good investment for the long-term so you want to ensure they keep their looks for many years to come.

Barrettine are experts in wood care, with plenty of hints and tips on how to preserve the beauty of your interior woodwork 

Many homeowners are instantly drawn to timber when it comes to renovating a room, especially in the kitchen where it complements both classic and contemporary designs as well as a wide range of colour palettes and accent tones.

With its warm hues and unique knots and grains, timber lends a certain charm to any space that is difficult to achieve with manmade materials.

This is why wooden floors and worksurfaces have become the focal point in many homes and have been increasingly sought after in recent years.

Typically priced at the middle to top end of the market, it’s important therefore, to take proper care and attention when it comes to maintenance and keeping your wooden surfaces looking their best for longer. Without an investment in time and attention, surfaces can swiftly lose their lustre and become dull, scratched and scuffed.

“Many homeowners underestimate the impact of daily wear and tear on their wooden surfaces,” says Steve Bailey, Group Managing Director for Barrettine.

“From the constant shuffle of feet or pets’ claws across a wooden floor to food prep on kitchen worksurfaces, these areas face a barrage of challenges every day.”

Help is at hand however, as with the right knowledge and tools, you can ensure your wooden features remain a beautiful and lasting focal point of your home.

Timber – a timeless material

Interior design trends come and go, yet timber is a perfect example of timeless elegance. Whether you’re aiming for rustic charm, sleek modernity or anything in between, timber is the perfect choice. And in an age of increasing environmental consciousness, wood is now the material of choice for many homeowners, architects and designers. 

How to care for your timber

When it comes to ongoing maintenance, just a little consistent attention can save you from costly and time-consuming repairs in years to come.

Start with the basics – use appropriate wood cleaning methods to regularly remove dirt and grime without stripping the wood’s natural oils. Mindful use is also important and simple habits can really help. Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches on wooden flooring and keep cats and dogs’ claws trimmed to minimise surface damage. It’s also crucial to apply a protective coating to shield woodwork from everyday wear and tear while investing in high-quality products designed specifically for this purpose will maximise the lifespan and beauty of your timber floors and worksurfaces.

Armourflex® Hardwax Oil offers exceptional protection

The experts at Barrettine recommend the use of Armourflex® Hardwax Oil. A carefully crafted blend of nature and science, it’s designed to bring out the best in your wooden surfaces, offering exceptional protection at the same time.

Unlike traditional varnishes that create an impermeable barrier, this formula provides a breathable, microporous finish that enhances rather than masks the wood’s character. “It doesn’t just sit on the surface,” adds Steve Bailey. “It penetrates deep into the wood, nourishing and strengthening from within while also forming a resilient protective layer on top.”

This unique Hardwax Oil is a blend of natural soya oils, flax linseed oil and carnauba wax for a finish that’s as tough as it is beautiful. Perfect for everyday wear and tear, it’s resistant to scratches and spills and is ideal for high traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways and living rooms. Additionally, Armourflex® Hardwax Oil is Certified Food and Toy Safe when dry, making it perfect for use on wooden worktops and tables.

How to apply Armourflex® Hardwax Oil

As with any DIY project, a little know-how goes a long way.

If the wood has been freshly laid, allow it to acclimatise in the room for several days. Generally, the moisture content should be below 15%. If you are renovating existing wood that has had previous coatings applied, remove these first by sanding. Fill any cracks with a suitable wood filler then sand to a smooth finish using 120-150 grit sandpaper.

Next, remove any sanding dust and apply methylated spirit to prepare the surface before applying Armourflex® Hardwax Oil. Always do a test patch in an inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility and to get an idea of the final finish.

Less is more, so apply thin, even coats, working with the grain of the wood using a high-quality brush or roller for smooth application, wiping any excess away with a lint-free cloth. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before deciding if a second coat is needed.

For ongoing maintenance, the process is even simpler. Small marks or scratches can be remedied with a light buffing using a soft cloth. For larger areas, a light sanding followed by a thin re-application of the oil is all that’s required.

Why choose Barrettine?

Barrettine is built on tradition. The company has been developing premium formulas for over 145 years, always rigorously testing to ensure they are up to the toughest tasks. You can find its Armourflex® Hardwax Oil at major retailers such as Wickes as well as specialist suppliers.

For further information, head to barrettinepro.co.uk