Oiled or lacquered parquet: which finish is right for you?

Engineered oak parquet is one of the most rewarding floors you can lay. Before ordering, though, almost every buyer runs into the same question: oiled or lacquered parquet? The two finishes differ in far more than appearance — they wear differently, ask for different care, and cost different amounts to keep looking well over the years.

What is the difference between oiled and lacquered parquet?

Lacquered parquet carries several coats of clear lacquer that cure into a hard protective film sitting on top of the wood.

Oiled parquet is worked with oil and wax preparations that soak into the timber and feed it from within — the surface stays matt, with the natural grain still open to the touch.

Lacquered parquet: advantages and drawbacks

Advantages

• Simple day-to-day care — sweeping, plus an occasional pass with a well-wrung damp cloth
• Resistant to moisture and the odd splash
• Smoother and warmer underfoot
• Available in a full range of sheen levels, from matt to high gloss

Drawbacks

• The lacquer film wears and picks up scratches over time, especially along busy routes through the room
• Renovation is more involved — the whole surface has to be sanded back and re-lacquered
• Scratches are more visible than on an oiled floor (see removing scratches)

Oiled parquet: advantages and drawbacks

Advantages

• A natural, warm wood look with the texture of the grain intact
• Easy local repair — you can refresh only the damaged board
• Scratches are less noticeable on a matt surface
• The timber develops a handsome patina as the years pass

Drawbacks

• Calls for regular maintenance — re-oiling every one to two years
• More sensitive to moisture and staining — spills need wiping up promptly
• Care products are an additional cost

So which should you choose?

If you value low-effort care and would rather not spend weekends on your floor, lacquered parquet is the safer pick. It suits families with young children and anyone who has no wish to re-oil a floor on a schedule.

If what matters most is the natural look of wood and the option to repair only the damaged spots, choose oiled parquet. It is a favourite in Scandinavian-inspired interiors and among people who want the timber to read as timber.

Oiled parquet gives you a natural surface that is easy to repair in place. Lacquered parquet gives you less upkeep and better resistance to moisture.

The bottom line

Both finishes have a real case behind them — the deciding factor is how you live and what you expect from the floor. The classic choice either way is oak, and the entire Terris Timber collection comes either oiled or in a matt lacquer. Our specialists are always glad to help you settle on the right finish for your rooms. Order free samples and see the difference between oiled and lacquered parquet with your own eyes.