Liming

Open-pored woods such as oak, ash, chestnut, or walnut are ideal. Closed-pored woods (beech, maple) absorb less.

You generally lime the wood before installation for more comfortable work. On an existing floor, sand lightly before applying.

Apply a coat of maintenance wax once or twice a year. Avoid abrasive products that may remove the wax.

Liming highlights the wood grain by filling the pores with white or colored wax, while patina creates an old, aged look on the wood using special products. Liming gives a matte and soft-to-the-touch appearance, whereas patina produces a more antique and irregular finish.

Liming offers several advantages: it naturally reveals the wood grain, it is easily repairable in case of scratches, and it provides a matte and silky-smooth finish highly appreciated in decoration. Furthermore, liming is a relatively simple finishing technique to do yourself.

Before proceeding with liming, it is important to carefully prepare the wood. Start by sanding it finely to obtain a smooth and uniform surface. Then dust off the wood to eliminate all particles. Finally, degrease the surface with an appropriate solvent so that the liming wax adheres perfectly.

The main steps to achieve quality liming are as follows: 1) Carefully prepare the wood as previously indicated. 2) Apply the liming wax using a cloth or brush, rubbing well to make it penetrate the pores. 3) Allow the wax to dry completely. 4) Gently sand to remove excess wax and smooth the surface.

To maintain limed wooden furniture, it is recommended to dust it regularly with a soft, dry cloth. You can also occasionally apply a thin layer of special beeswax for furniture to revive its appearance and protect the liming. Avoid using aggressive cleaning products that could alter the matte and silky finish of the liming.