Ipe Lapacho Wood Floor Sanding

We took on the challenge of sanding an Ipe Lapacho wood floor, one of the hardest exotic woods, achieving a flawless, scratch-free finish using Pallmann Allbase primer and Pall-X 98 lacquer, much to our client’s delight.

Close-up of a beautifully finished Ipe Lapacho wood floor with a warm, smooth surface in a London property, reflecting natural light through large windows.

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Site Preparation and Initial Sanding

Ipe Lapacho wood, known for its extraordinary hardness and density, requires advanced techniques and specialized equipment for effective sanding. Using our dust-free sanding system, we prepared the floor by removing old finishes and levelling imperfections, revealing the wood’s raw beauty. Our skilled team, led by Wojtek, achieved a smooth, scratch-free surface, which was crucial to ensuring the perfect application of subsequent finishes. The client was thrilled with the transformation, as the natural grain patterns of the Ipe wood emerged beautifully after sanding.

Machines usedPallmann Spider

LocationLondon

Client TypeResidential Property

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Primer Application with Pallmann Allbase

Given the dense nature of Ipe, we chose Pallmann’s solvent-based Allbase primer to bring out the wood’s rich, natural colors. Water-based primers are less effective for such dense hardwoods as they struggle to penetrate deeply, often resulting in a dull finish. Applying the Allbase primer requires expertise, as it involves multiple coats to ensure full coverage and to enhance the wood’s tone while avoiding adverse chemical reactions. By using Pallmann Allbase, we achieved a vibrant, even foundation that set the stage for a durable topcoat.

Product UsedPallmann Allbase Primer

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Final Lacquer Application with Pall-X 98

For the finishing touch, we applied Pallmann’s Pall-X 98 lacquer, a high-quality, durable coating designed for high-traffic areas. This water-based lacquer offers a beautiful, subtle sheen and enhances the wood’s natural grain without overpowering its character. Although solvent-based finishes are typically preferred for Ipe, our careful application and thorough testing ensured the water-based Pall-X 98 adhered perfectly. This lacquer not only added a protective layer to the floor but also accentuated the warm tones of the Ipe wood, providing a resilient and visually appealing finish. The result is a floor that combines beauty and functionality, offering long-lasting protection and elegance.

Product Usedallmann Pall-X 98 Lacquer

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Ipe Lapacho Wood Floor Sanding London

Sanding Ipe Lapacho wood floors in London is a specialised process requiring advanced tools and expert handling. This hardwood is extremely dense and resistant, making it challenging for standard sanding equipment to achieve a smooth finish. Our team utilises dust-free sanding technology, which leaves a clean surface and effectively brings out the wood’s natural beauty. The initial sanding phase is crucial in preparing the surface for finishes like Pallmann Allbase primer and Pall-X 98 lacquer, which add depth and durability.

Solvent-Based vs. Water-Based Primers for Ipe Wood

Benefits of Pallmann Allbase for Ipe

Pallmann’s Allbase primer is the preferred choice for Ipe Lapacho wood due to its solvent-based formulation, which penetrates this dense hardwood effectively. Water-based primers may struggle to enhance the wood’s colour and texture on Ipe. The solvent-based Allbase primer enhances the grain patterns and richness of the wood, creating a foundation for a durable, long-lasting finish.

Advantages of Pall-X 98 Lacquer on Exotic Woods

For the final protective layer, we used Pallmann’s Pall-X 98 lacquer, known for its resilience and aesthetic appeal on exotic woods like Ipe. Although solvent-based lacquers are generally more suitable, Pall-X 98’s advanced formulation adhered beautifully to the Ipe surface after proper testing. The water-based finish provided a high-quality protective layer that enhances the wood’s natural grain while offering longevity in high-traffic areas.

Choosing a Professional for Ipe Floor Sanding in London

Engaging a professional with expertise in exotic hardwoods is essential when working with Ipe. At Silver Lining Floor Care, our experience with Ipe Lapacho floors and Pallmann products ensures a flawless finish. Our dust-free sanding, combined with premium primers and lacquers, results in a floor that is both visually stunning and durable.

Health and Safety Considerations with Solvent-Based Primers

Solvent-based products like Pallmann’s Allbase primer emit strong odours and require careful handling. Our team follows strict health and safety protocols, ensuring proper ventilation and notifying clients and neighbours about potential impacts. For clients sensitive to solvent fumes, we offer alternative solutions with water-based finishes, although solvent-based primers are recommended for the best results on Ipe.

FAQs

Why is sanding Ipe Lapacho wood challenging?

Ipe is one of the hardest woods, requiring specialized equipment and techniques to achieve a smooth, scratch-free finish.

What primer is recommended for Ipe Lapacho floors?

We recommend Pallmann’s Allbase primer, a solvent-based product that penetrates the dense grain of Ipe effectively, enhancing its natural color.

Is water-based lacquer suitable for Ipe Lapacho wood?

While solvent-based lacquers are typically preferred, Pallmann’s Pall-X 98 water-based lacquer worked well after thorough testing. It offers durability and a beautiful finish on Ipe.

What safety measures are taken when using solvent-based products?

Our team follows strict safety protocols, including proper ventilation and notifying clients and neighbours, to manage the strong odour and potential health risks associated with solvent-based primers.

Still have questions?

Happy Customers

Customer testimonials

Read what our satisfied customers have to say

Good experience from beginning to end .Good communication workman attended on time and the end product was excellent.

Frances Begyinah

Wood Floor Fitting, London, Orpington

Fantastic service. Punctual, professional and explained the entire way through. Would recommend

Robert Dyan

Limestone Polishing, London, Finchley

We had a great experience with Silver Lining Floor Care Company. First of all, they came to see me the same day I contacted them to show how the floor sanding would work and also apply a couple of coloured varnishes to appreciate what the final effect would look like. Once selected, they have shared the most professional quote I have seen in my life, with a clear Video explanation that takes you through the quote line by line. Additionally, they have great customer care - they are always available over the phone, whatsapp and email to really address any query you have. Cherry on the cake, they have delivered a very good job, respecting their promise. I would highly recommend.

Barbara Colombo

Oak Floor Sanding and Staining, London, Kensington

Excellent job done cleaning and polishing wooden floor. The team was very helpful and professional. Great communication too. Highly recommended!

Marianna C

Wooden Floor Polishing Hackney, London

First time using Silver Lining. Absolutely excellent job done cleaning our lounge rugs and carpets, and also our whole hallway and stairs by their cleaner Mick using a truck-mounted cleaning system. Will definitely be using them in the future.

Simon Rossi

Carpet Cleaning, London, Hither Green

Super results, pleasant and professional workers, constructive and flexible process. Big thank you to the team! Got the floor of one room, which was very worn and damaged, sanded down, re-stained and lacquered. Particular challenge was trying to match the rest of the flat's flooring, which I didn't know what products had been used on it. The team was super engaged in trying to work this problem, and the results were fantastic.

Charlie McNelly

Floorboards Sanding and Staining, Lodnon, Lower Clapton

Silver Lining Floor Care did an outstanding job sanding and oiling the floors in my new flat. They successfully removed all stains and scratches, leaving the floor looking brand new. The team was very professional throughout the process, providing a detailed quote before starting and offering various options to suit my needs. Their expertise and attention to detail really stood out. I couldn’t be happier with the results, and I feel like I got great value for money. If you're looking for reliable, high-quality floor care, I highly recommend Silver Lining Floor Care!

ADB

Antonio Di Buono

Wood Floor Sanding & Oiling, London, Bermondsey

Johnny and the team were very professional. We had lots of calls to discuss reconditioning our Reclamed Burmese teak parquet floor. We planned the dates for when we went away on holiday. His team were trustworthy reliable with great communication! when we came back from holiday the floor was completed and the treatment is holding up well two months later, much better than the original treatment which was a hard wax oil that only lasted 2 years! it was applied by general builders with no expertise in wood floor treatments. This time we went with a lacquer with hardener, we have a big Labrador dog and we still have no visible scratches on the surface and we look forward to seeing how it holds up with the test of time!

I Tols

Wood Floor Sanding & Lacquering, London, Balham

Excellent service, quick and easy clean. Very knowledgeable.

Dev Mepani

Limestone Polishing, London, Knightsbridge

Great service. Proactive , pleasant comms with Johnny. Finished result is excellent, highly recommend!

Joanna Gardiner

Worktop Sanding & Oiling, London, Shoreditch

I'm extremely happy with the result. Johnny was incredibly helpful in answering all my questions. Dean and Tommy did an outstanding job. They are both friendly and professional. Highly recommended!

S Li

Wood Floor Sanding & Oiling, London, Wandsworth

Silver Lining Floor Care conducted some Victorian Tile restoration and cleaning for me. A day after the initial visit some white residue came to the surface due to moisture in the air. On calling Silver Lining Floor Care to tell them this they returned and rectified immediately. An excellent job and will be using again. I can recommend.

O Bidder

Victorian Tiles Restoration, London, Kensigton

Silver Lining Floor Care refinished our existing floorbaords and installed new engineered oak in the remainder of our flat. They are an extremely professional and efficient business to work with. Johnny was very responsive throughout the scoping and quoting process and recommended an engineered oak floorboard that was both higher quality and cheaper than the boards I'd been looking at. Peter first leveled our floors before installing the new boards to ensure a very professional fit. He was easy to communicate with and sent photos throughout the installation as we were not around to see it in person. We have worked with lots of contractors for the renovation of our flat and been dismayed at how so many companies leave the property in a total mess. Silver Lining Floor Care have been the only company to take good care of the property and leave it in perfect condition. Very happy with the finished product and would definitely recommend them.

Lisa Fox

Wood Floor Fitting, Sanding & Oiling, London, Clapham Common

Johnny, Peter and Milosz did a great job on our floors. The quote was provided promptly and we were kept informed at all times of appointments and next steps. When the carpet was taken up prior to work, this showed that some floorboards needed to be repaired. Milosz did a very thorough job in repairing these, removing gaps, strengthening the existing boards and taking a great deal of care to make the floor look as good as possible. I would recommend Silver Lining Floor Care.

Stephen Rice

Floorboards Sanding and Lacquering, London, Finsbury Park

An excellent service and friendly people

Whitney McVeigh

Wood Floor Sanding & Lacquering, London, Queens Park

Johnny and his team has been very reliable. Great work. I was touched to learn about Johnny's story and his journey in the floorcare industry. Yes they are perhaps not the cheapest company but by far the best one to choose if you want a good job done. Love the fact they use the Pallmann range of products - Great reliable Quality

PdW

Pierre de Wet

Wood Floor Sanding in London, Chelsea

Good job done on our floors in both centres, clarity, information and proper planning executed before, during and after the project. Education links Academy

Resin Floor Restoration, London, Stratford

After 10 years or renting out our flat the floors were looking tired and scuffed Very happy with the service from silver lining with the floors now looking like new again

Robert Hurst

Wood Floor Sanding & Fishing with Raw Wood Effect Lacquer

We had new doors on the back of the house which meant we needed the floor lifted and taken to a new border point. Small job but as time consuming as a new floor. Team were amazing and cut out the old boards and put in the new ones so everything fitted flush with a great trim border they made out of a spare board. Really nice people, clean and tidy and would highly recommend.

jim steven

Wood Floor Repairs, London, Ditton Hill

The team did a great job sanding and oiling our fairly old floor which had a lot of stains - it now looks new!

Trina

Sanding and Oiling Wooden Floors, London, Highbury

I love my newly sanded and stained floors ! Johnny was extremely helpful and responsive as well as very open and honest on their approach and price point. The service is worth the investment and Martin was extremely competent and efficient in the sanding and staining process . The floors look beautiful !

Ruth Hutchison

Wood Floor Sanding, Staining and Lacquering, London, Bushey

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Effortless scheduling and premium results – we make it simple to book expert floor care that’s done on time, every time.

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Satisfaction Guaranteed or Your Money Back

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We complete projects on time, every time

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Unparalleled Service That Puts You First

At Silver Lining Floor Care, we prioritize your satisfaction above all else. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing unparalleled service that exceeds your expectations.

Always provide a courteous and professional service.
Start and finish on time as agreed with the customer.
Apply our expertise at all times.
To protect your property and leave it clean.
Offer a full follow up service should you need it.

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Dedicated to Quality and Expertise Since 2004

At Silver Lining Floor Care, we specialize in bringing your floors to life. Our services are designed to restore, clean, and protect a wide variety of surfaces, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability. From wood to stone and beyond, explore the full range of our offerings:

Wood Floor Restoration
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Whether you’re looking for a fresh finish or regular maintenance, our team is here to help. Explore our services or get in touch today to see how we can enhance your space.

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Are your floors in need of professional care? Look no further. Our team of experts is here to help you. Whether you need floor restorations, commercial services, or soft furnishing care, we've got you covered. Get in touch with us today for a quote or more information.

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