How to clean and maintain a solid oak fireplace surround
Solid oak fireplace surrounds can be finished in a number of different ways, which may include clear lacquer finishes, clear and colored oils and waxes.
The most popular is clear lacquer and it will seal the oak for life.
The process involves first preparing the wood by sanding the oak to a smooth finish, applying a colored stain if necessary, then applying a clear sealer that seals the oak and lifts the grain. The fireplace surround is left to dry for a while.
Once dry, the oak fireplace is again sanded to a smooth finish and sprayed with a light coat of stain to achieve the correct shade and color, and a final coat of clear lacquer is applied to finish.
To maintain the frame of a lacquered oak fireplace, it should be cleaned only with a damp cloth, try to avoid the use of spray waxes as this will tarnish the lacquer over time.
All repairs can be made by sanding the damaged area and applying a clear varnish to the bare wood.
Waxed oak fireplaces
Waxed oak fireplaces will require regular re-waxing because the wax dries out over time. There are varieties of waxes available and all are suitable for recoating, but most are tinted to color the wood as well, so select the finish you need.
Apply the wax with a soft cloth in circular motions to penetrate the flower and when it is dry to the touch remove the excess wax with a soft cloth and polish to finish.
All repairs can be made by re-sanding the damage, applying colored putty if necessary, and applying wax to the area and allowing to dry. A second coat may be required.
Oiled oak fireplaces.
Oiled oak fireplaces will also require a regular recoat with an oil or similar product to keep the fireplace surround looking its best, but be careful when choosing the oils that are available as most are tinted products and will change naturally the color of the surroundings of the fireplace. overtime.
To repair a damaged oiled oak fire frame, sand the damaged area first with a heavy sandpaper and sand to a smooth finish with fine sandpaper, apply your chosen oil with a soft cloth or brush and let it soak into the grain. when dry to the touch, wipe it off with a clean cloth to finish.
