Solid Oak Floor Sanding and Oiling in Pratt’s Bottom
We recently completed a solid oak floor sanding and oiling project in Pratts Bottom, South London, restoring a 17-year-old oak floor that had faded into an unappealing yellow-orange shade. The transformation revitalised the flooring, erasing years of wear and restoring its original beauty.

Evaluating the Challenges
Upon inspection, the dining area exhibited heavy scratches and wear from foot traffic and furniture movement. The oak had developed an aged yellow-orange tint, far removed from its original natural charm. To facilitate the restoration, all furniture was removed from the space. Where this wasn’t feasible, we strategically divided the room into sections, ensuring a uniform finish.

The Restoration Process
The sanding process was essential for eliminating scratches, evening out worn areas, and preparing the wood for treatment. We incorporated sawdust from the existing floor with a high-quality water-based filler to ensure seamless repairs. This method maintains the authenticity of the wood while reinforcing its structure.

Oiling for Long-Term Protection
The final step involved applying Magic Oil 2K, a two-component oil that deeply penetrates the wood, offering enhanced durability and a breathable finish. Unlike lacquer, this oil preserves the wood’s natural aesthetic while providing long-lasting protection.
A Successful Transformation
The restored floors looked as if they had been completely replaced, all at a fraction of the cost of new flooring. With just four hours of drying time, the floors were ready for foot traffic, and within 12 hours, they were fully cured, allowing the client to enjoy their refreshed space without delay.

The Importance of Sanding in Wood Floor Restoration
Sanding is a crucial step in wood floor restoration as it removes surface imperfections, old coatings, and deep scratches. Without proper sanding, new finishes will not adhere correctly, reducing durability and overall appearance. High-quality sanding ensures a smooth, even surface that enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain.
Oak Floor Scratch Removal and Refinishing Techniques
Oak flooring often develops scratches and wear patterns over time. Professional sanding can remove deep scratches and uneven wear, while gap filling with water-based fillers and fine sawdust ensures a seamless finish. Once sanded, applying a protective oil like Magic Oil 2K enhances durability and keeps the floor looking fresh.
Why Magic Oil 2K is Ideal for Oak Floors
Unlike traditional lacquers that create a surface layer, Magic Oil 2K penetrates deep into the wood, strengthening it from within while maintaining a natural, matte appearance. This two-component oil provides long-lasting protection, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas while allowing easy maintenance and spot repairs.
Oak Floor Oiling and Its Quick Curing Time
Magic Oil 2K dries significantly faster than traditional finishes, requiring only four hours before light foot traffic and 12 hours for full curing. This rapid drying time makes it ideal for busy households, allowing homeowners to enjoy their beautifully restored floors with minimal downtime.
Oil vs Lacquer: Choosing the Right Finish for Your Oak Floor
Oil finishes penetrate the wood, enhancing the grain and allowing the surface to breathe, making it easier to maintain and repair. Lacquer, on the other hand, creates a harder, more resistant surface but can be difficult to spot-repair. Oiled floors are preferred for their natural look and ease of maintenance, especially in homes with pets or heavy foot traffic.
Best Practices for Maintaining Oiled Oak Floors
To keep an oiled oak floor in top condition, regular dry sweeping and damp mopping with pH-neutral wood cleaners are recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals that strip the oil finish. Periodic re-oiling every 12-24 months helps maintain protection and enhances the floor’s durability. Small scratches or worn areas can be buffed and re-oiled without needing a full resand, making oil finishes a cost-effective solution.
FAQs
How did you restore the original colour of the oak floor?
We sanded the floors to remove the yellow-orange tint and applied a natural-toned Magic Oil 2K to restore its authentic look.
Does oiling provide better protection than lacquer?
Yes & No, Magic Oil 2K allows the wood to breathe, preserving its natural feel while offering excellent durability and easy spot repairs. The 2k system is a big step from the 1k oil, which requires periodical reapplication.
Can you refinish a floor without moving all the furniture?
Yes, we can divide the room into sections, allowing us to work efficiently while keeping part of the space accessible.
How often should I maintain my oiled oak floor?
We recommend light maintenance every six months and re-oiling every few years to retain its protection and beauty. Although this very much depends on daily maintenance and traffic.
Is Magic Oil 2K environmentally friendly?
Yes, it is a low-VOC, eco-friendly finish that enhances wood’s durability while being safe for indoor air quality.
Still have questions?
Contact us for more information.
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At Silver Lining Floor Care, we bring experience and precision to every surface we treat. Our comprehensive services are designed to restore, clean, and protect all types of flooring—helping you maintain lasting beauty, hygiene, and value. Whether it's natural stone, hardwood, or soft furnishings, we've got it covered:
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Whether you need a full transformation or regular upkeep, we’re here to help. Explore all our services and see how we can bring your floors back to life.

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