Timber Floors for Professionals

Professional Application Guide

LIVOS penetrating oils work very differently from polyurethane or traditional floor coatings.

Instead of forming a thick plastic layer on the surface, LIVOS oils penetrate into the timber fibres and protect the wood from within. This allows the timber to breathe while creating a durable, natural-looking floor that can be repaired and rejuvenated without sanding.

When comparing finishes, it is important not to compare on price alone. Penetrating oils typically require far less material than traditional varnish systems, and their ability to be spot repaired means the floor can be maintained for many years without full refinishing.

For projects where indoor air quality, sustainability, and health are important, LIVOS oils offer a clear advantage. All ingredients are fully declared and manufactured to strict European environmental and emissions standards.

Preparation

Preparation determines the final quality of the floor.

  1. Complete any filling or puttying before sanding.
  2. Sand the timber to 120–150 grit.
  3. Ensure no sanding marks remain.
  4. Remove all dust thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner.
  5. Oil should be applied after all other trades have finished.

Do not use or store oil below 12°C.

Equipment Required

  • Floor applicator or buffer mop
  • Paint brush for edges and corners
  • White polishing pad
  • Squeegee (optional)
  • Clean cloths or rags for removing excess oil
  • Paint tray (optional)
  • LIVOS floor oil
  • Airtight metal container for used rags and pads

First Coat

Stir the oil thoroughly before use.

Apply oil using an applicator or roller, fully saturating the timber. The surface should remain visibly wet during this stage.

If the oil is absorbed quickly, apply more.

Use a brush to carefully oil edges, skirting boards and door frames.

Allow the oil to sit for around 20 minutes so it can penetrate the timber.

After this saturation period, remove all excess oil from the surface.

For larger areas, a squeegee can be used to move excess oil to the next section before buffing.

Place a cloth beneath a white pad on a buffing machine and work across the floor to remove excess oil and achieve an even finish.

The floor should feel slightly greasy but not wet.

Allow the floor to dry overnight with good ventilation and natural light if possible.

Oxygen is required for the oil to begin the natural hardening process.

Second Coat

If the temperature is low or humidity is high, allow an extra day between coats.

Stir the oil thoroughly.

Apply the second coat thinly across the surface.

There is no need to sand between coats.

Allow the oil to sit for approximately 20 minutes, then remove excess oil as before.

Less oil will be required than the first coat.

If the oil becomes tacky while working, add a small amount of fresh oil to dissolve it and wipe off again.

Allow to dry overnight.

Third Coat

Ensure the previous coat is fully dry and not tacky.

Apply a very thin final coat.

For professional application, apply drops of oil across the floor and polish in using a white pad beneath a buffing machine.

Inspect the floor from different angles to ensure the finish is even with no shiny patches.

The finished floor should not have a thick layer of oil on top.

Allow a minimum of 24 hours before returning furniture.

Why Penetrating Oil Finishes Are Different

Unlike polyurethane coatings that sit on top of the timber, LIVOS oils:

  • penetrate into the timber fibres
  • harden naturally within the wood
  • maintain the natural appearance of the timber
  • allow spot repairs without sanding
  • can be rejuvenated rather than fully refinished

With the correct maintenance program, a LIVOS finished floor can last for many years.

Renovations or Further Building Work

Ideally, oiling should take place at the very end of a project.

If additional work must occur after the floor is finished:

  • protect the surface with cotton sheets or cardboard
  • never use plastic drop sheets
  • avoid washing the floor in the early stages

Another option is to apply the final coat after building work has been completed.

Safety Information

Cloths, pads, or rags containing natural oils can pose a risk of spontaneous combustion due to the linseed oil content.

Always store used materials:

  • in an airtight metal container, or
  • submerged in water until disposal.

The oil itself will not self-ignite, but oil-soaked materials must be handled safely.

Do not use or store oil below 12°C.

Need Help Choosing the Right LIVOS Oil?

If you're unsure which LIVOS system is right for your floor, get in touch.
We're happy to help you select the correct oil and application method for your project.