Understanding Flooring Finishes: UV Oiled, Hardwax Oil & Lacquered
- Helen Clark
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
At JS Woodcraft, we specialise in bespoke engineered oak flooring, finished in-house at our Yorkshire factory. The finish you choose will impact not just how your floor looks, but how it feels underfoot, how it ages, and how you maintain it over time.
Our main finish is UV oiled, but we also offer hardwax oil and lacquered options. Here's a full breakdown of each—how they absorb or sit on the wood, their pros and cons, and what might work best for your home or project.
💡 UV Oiled – Our Signature Finish
What is it?
UV oil is a blend of natural oils that is cured instantly using UV light. It gives the natural appearance of an oil finish but with enhanced strength and protection.
How it interacts with the wood:
UV oil penetrates the surface of the oak, bonding with the top layer while still allowing the wood grain to show through. It creates a protective layer that sits just beneath the surface, offering a subtle sheen and enhanced durability.
✔ Pros:
Natural, elegant finish (available in matt, satin, or high gloss)
Pre-cured – no drying time after installation
Higher stain and water resistance than traditional oil
Fully compatible with hardwax oil for future re-oiling
Long-lasting with minimal maintenance
✘ Cons:
Slightly less forgiving to spot-repair than traditional hardwax oil, but can be repaired using hardwax oil
Sheen level must be chosen in advance
Ideal for:
Clients wanting a warm, natural appearance with excellent durability and low upkeep.
🌿 Hardwax Oil – Natural Look, Easy to Refresh
What is it?
Hardwax oil is made from natural oils and waxes. It deeply nourishes and protects the wood, while preserving its tactile surface.
How it interacts with the wood:
Hardwax oil soaks deeply into the wood fibres, protecting the oak from within. It enhances the natural grain and colour without forming a plastic-like film on the surface. This finish allows the wood to breathe and feel raw and authentic underfoot.
✔ Pros:
Beautiful, natural appearance with soft matt finish
Easy to maintain and refresh over time
Enhances grain and texture
Environmentally friendly
✘ Cons:
Requires more regular upkeep in high-traffic areas
More sensitive to moisture and stains than UV or lacquer
Can mark or dull in areas without reapplication
Ideal for:
Clients who want a soft, natural feel and don’t mind occasional top-up oiling.
✅ Lacquered – Hardwearing & Easy to Clean
What is it?
Lacquer forms a tough, protective coating over the surface of the floor, giving a smooth and sealed appearance.
How it interacts with the wood:
Unlike oils, lacquer sits on top of the oak surface, forming a solid film that protects against wear and moisture. It does not soak into the wood, so while it offers high durability, it can slightly reduce the tactile feel and warmth of the timber.
✔ Pros:
Very high scratch and stain resistance
Easy to clean with no re-oiling needed
Ideal for high-use and commercial areas
Available in matt, satin, or gloss
✘ Cons:
Harder to repair – scratches often require full sanding or replacing the defected plank
Slightly flattens the natural grain and texture
Less breathable than oil-based finishes
Ideal for:
Clients prioritising durability and minimal maintenance over the natural feel of the timber.
Summary: Which Finish Is Right for You?
Summary: Which Finish Is Right for You?
Want to See the Difference?
Whether you're choosing wide planks, tumbled rustic herringbone, or bespoke stair treads, we’ll guide you to the right finish to suit your design and lifestyle. Request a bespoke sample box or visit our showroom to see how different finishes feel and look on real oak.
📞 Contact JS Woodcraft 01904 479900 today to explore our UV oiled, hardwax oiled, and lacquered finishes – all applied by hand or machine in our Yorkshire factory using only the highest quality materials.
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