Care & Maintenance of Livos Oils on Timber Floors
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AFTER FINAL OIL IT IS RECOMMENDED TO
- Remain off the floor for 24 hours (at least).
- Avoid water totally for the first 4-6 weeks (the longer the better). Only use dry methods of cleaning. If spillages occur, dry immediately, do not wash the floor in the early stages. This is necessary to allow the oil to harden and cure. Light and ventilation aids in the curing process.
- Wear soft shoes for the next 3-4 days, sweaty feet/socks may leave marks when the floor is fresh.
- Place felt protectors under furniture contact points.
- To avoid scratches or dents, always lift heavy furniture into place. Do not drag.
- Wait 4-6 weeks before placing mats or rugs down.
- If oil “sweats” between boards, remove gently with a paper towel.
CARING FOR YOUR FLOOR
- Immediately remove any liquid spills.
- Protect your floor against abrasive dust or grit by placing a quality doormat at the entrance of your home.
- After the initial curing time, and for regular cleaning, floors may be wiped over with a slightly damp (not wet) mop. Use only products that are suitable for cleaning and maintaining natural oil-finished timber.
- 10 ml (1 tbsp) of Livos TRENA PH Neutral Cleaner #556 (Concentrate) to 5 Lt of water is strongly recommended. Avoid higher concentrations. This is a mild and effective cleaner, leaving the oil layer untouched.
- One may use the GLANOS Liquid Wax Cleaner #559 (Concentrate) mixed with water every 4th wash to aid in obtaining a sheen to the floor. 1 tbsp in 5 lt of water. (This should be alternated with the TRENA PH Neutral Cleaner #556).
- Cleaning with cotton cloths or mops is ideal.
DO NOT
- Use steam mops. The heat will break down the oil wax layer.
- Do not use excessive water, abrasive chemical products, baking soda, vinegar or ammonia.
- Avoid using Microfibre cloths as they are extremely harsh and may strip the nutrients/oil from the flooring.
RENOVATIONS
It is highly recommended to sand and oil the floors after painting and all trades have finished. If unavoidable, place cotton sheets or cartons (not plastic drop sheets) on freshly oiled floor for protection. When this protection is removed vacuum floor with an attachment that has soft bristles and move along the grain of the timber. If this does not remove fine plaster dust, then a final buff with a white pad (non-abrasive) may be necessary. Do not wash the floor in the early stages.
REJUVENATION (at a later stage)
Rejuvenation is easily carried out when the floor either looks dull, too dry or does not repel water. Large furniture pieces may be left in place. Please request or download “Rejuvenation of oiled floors” at www.livos.com.au.
FREQUENTLY WET & HIGHLY STRESSED AREAS
On areas frequently sprinkled with water (walls, floor, benches etc.), remove water droplets as soon as possible. Otherwise, traces of calcium and other minerals dissolved in the water, can build up grey and white veils on the timber surfaces after many years and are difficult to remove. From time to time wipe a few drops of the original oil used onto the cleaned surface. Leave for 10-15 minutes. Wipe the surface dry. Leave for a few hours. Alternatively, use the Kunos Maintenance Oil #1862.
“Our information is given in good faith and is based on results obtained from experience and tests. However, as the workmanship is beyond our control, all recommendations and suggestions are made without guarantee.”
Livos Australia PTY LTD
16 Federation Road (28-42 Smeaton Avenue) Dandenong South Victoria 3175
Ph. 03.9762 9181
info@livos.com.au