If there’s something all homeowners can agree on is that white oak floors look amazing! A white oak floor doesn’t just make your home look sophisticated, it adds a timeless yet elegant finish.
Aesthetics aside, white oak floors are quite durable. But if you’re interested in extending their lifespan, you should consider using a sealer such as Bona Classic. Such a sealer can increase its longevity, preserve its color and even the make floor easier to maintain.
And that brings us to today’s discussion where I’ll be educating you on everything you need to know about using Bona Classic Seal on White Oak.
Bona Classic Seal: The All-in-One Solution for Your White Oak Floors?
Bona Classic Seal is a water-based sealer used on wooden floors like white oak, red oak, walnut, cherry, and many others.
This sealer is mostly used on hardwood floors. It has two main jobs; to enhance the natural beauty of wood while protecting the floor from spills.
If you have just installed white oak flooring and you want to preserve its natural finish and extend its durability, please feel free to use Bona Classic Seal. This is an opinion that’s shared by both homeowners and experienced flooring contractors.
Exploring the Benefits: Why Should You Use Bona Classic Seal on White Oak?
Now that we have seen that Bona Classic Seal can be used on white oak. Let’s look into some of the perks that come with laying Bona Classic Seal over a white oak floor;
• It Improves the Aesthetic Finish of White Oak
Don’t get me wrong. White oak floors are flawless. But when you add a layer of Bona Classic Seal, the aesthetic transformation will be mind-blowing.
What Bona Classic Seal does is that it enhances the wood pattern on white oak while enriching the color. As a result, you’ll notice a significant enhancement in the visual appeal of a white oak floor.
• Bona Classic Seal Reduces Tannin Bleed on White Oak Floors
For those of you who are not familiar with tannin bleed, this is when the natural extracts in white oak seep onto the surface creating a brownish or yellowish stain.
By sealing the surface of white oak, Bona Classic significantly minimizes tannin bleed. So, you’ll never run into such stains throughout the life of your white oak floor.
• It Protects the White Oak Floor from Scratches and Regular Tear and Wear
Scratches caused either by traffic or pets can make your white oak floor look unsightly. But you don’t have to worry about that if you have applied the Bona Classic Seal.
The sealant creates a protective layer on the surface which keeps it safe from not just scratches but spills and food stains.
• It Protects White Oak Floors from UV and Moisture Damage
Long-term exposure to UV rays and moisture can accelerate the deterioration of white oak floors. But with a sealant like Bona Classic, it won’t let moisture or UV rays pass through.
• It Enhances Adhesion with Other Finishes
What most people don’t know is that Bona Classic acts as both a sealant and a primer. Therefore, when applied over White Oak, it promotes better adhesion to any coats that may be applied over it.
How to Apply Bona Classic Seal to White Oak Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Floor
Before applying any sealer to a wooden floor, preparation is always a crucial first step. Start by cleaning dust from the white oak floor as well as other contaminants.
I also advise you to sand the floor to get a smooth and even finish. Once you’re done, run a vacuum to suck any dust that was left behind. Finish up the preparation by cleaning it with a clean cloth.
Step 2: Mix the Sealer Thoroughly and Pour It
During storage, some ingredients in the sealer settle at the bottom. So, if you apply it directly, there is a huge chance of getting an inconsistent application. Ensure that the Bona Classic Seal is thoroughly mixed. Then pour a small amount on the floor.
Step 3: Spread It Evenly
Using a T-bar or a Bona roller, start spreading the sealer all over the white oak floor. It’s best to spread it in the direction of the wood grain. Just like paint, always work with thinner coats and don’t leave any excess sealer behind.
Step 4: Wait for the Sealer to Dry Before Sanding
Give the sealer enough time to dry before sanding it down. Why should you sand Bona Classic Seal? Sanding helps correct any imperfections or rough patches that you may have created during the application. But if it’s flawless, you can skip the sanding.
Step 5: Add More Coats If Necessary
Depending on the finish that you would like to achieve, you can add one or two more coats. Remember to give each coat enough time to dry. Also, don’t forget to sand imperfections.
Curing Time for Bona Classic Seal on White Oak Floors
Bona Classic Seal dries within two to three hours. There are a couple of factors that may affect the drying time of Bona Classic Seal such as humidity or temperature levels.
When it’s very cold and the humidity levels are high, Bona Classic Seal will take much longer to dry. You can expect it to dry within 5 or 6 hours.
According to Bona, the ideal conditions for you to apply it is when the temperatures range from 65 to 80 degrees F. As for the humidity, levels of 40% to 60% will be just fine.
How Many Coats of Bona Classic Seal to Use on White Oak Floors
On a white oak floor, one coat of Bona Classic Seal is enough to improve the finish and create a protective layer.
However, if you want a thicker layer, whether, for aesthetic or protection purposes, you can add two more coats to make it three.
In most cases, however, one coat of Bona Classic Seal is usually enough. It’s then followed by another finish such as the Bona Traffic or Mega.
While we are discussing finishes you can use the Bona Classic Seal, I’d strongly advise you to stick to finishes made by Bona. That’s the only way you can be assured of compatibility.
How to Care for White Oak Floors with Bona Classic Seal: Best Maintenance Practices
One of the perks of using Bona Classic Seal on white oak floors is that it makes the latter much easier to clean and maintain.
Nonetheless, if you want the Bona Classic Seal to last much longer on your white oak floor, there are a couple of maintenance practices you can embrace;
• Clean your white oak floor regularly. Dirt and debris can puncture the sealant and damage it.
• Stay away from abrasive cleaners. Though durable, Bona Classic Seal can easily be worn out by strong chemical cleaners.
• Install protective felt pads on the feet of your furniture. This should prevent scratching as you move the furniture.
• Remember to recoat the white oak floor with Bona Classic Seal every once in a while. This will depend on the amount of traffic your white oak floor will be exposed to.
How Long Does Bona Classic Seal Last on White Oak Floors?
Bona Classic Seal on a white oak floor can last for up to ten or fifteen years. This is possible in a residential setting which isn’t exposed to a lot of traffic.
However, it can last for five to seven years on a commercial white oak floor. A good rule of thumb is to always recoat the sealant at least after every one or two years. That should prolong its lifespan.
DIY vs. Expert Application: Do You Need to Hire a Professional?
From a professional point of view, I’d advise you to follow a DIY approach with Bona Classic Seal. The application process, as highlighted earlier, is pretty effortless. As long as you have the tools and the guide above, it should be a breeze.
However, I understand that not everyone is a DIY enthusiast. If you’ve never worked with floor sealants, it’s a good idea to seek professional help.
A skilled flooring contractor can apply Bona Classic Seal on your white oak floor. At a price, of course. But when you hire an expert, you’re guaranteed professional workmanship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Bona Classic Seal to White Oak Floors
It’s not that I’m anticipating something going wrong. But there are a few mistakes that people usually make when applying Bona Classic Seal on white oak. I’m going to list these mistakes and how you can resolve them;
• Formation of bubbles – This is usually caused by vigorously shaking the container before application.
• Poor adhesion – The leading cause of poor adhesion is often inadequate drying time. Give each coat at least three hours to dry.
• A dirty white oak floor – Dirt or contaminants can cause imperfections or stains as the Bona Classic Seal dries. A dirty floor can also lead to peeling.