Parquet oil and parquet lacquer represent two different philosophical approaches to wood surface treatment. Lacquer forms a closed, hard film layer over the wood — it sits on the surface, but not inside it. Oil is absorbed into the wood fibers and protects and nourishes the wood from within. The result has a different feel, appearance, and maintenance requirement.
Parquet oil is a natural or synthetic oil-based impregnating material that penetrates the wood's cellulose structure and cures there. It does not form a film layer over the wood but works as part of the wood: it protects against moisture and dirt while preserving the wood's natural texture, breathability, and feel.
Oiled parquet has a more natural appearance — it does not cover but highlights the wood grain and shades. The surface is matte or satin, not high gloss. In case of mechanical damage, oiled parquet can be locally repaired and re-oiled without sanding the entire surface — this is its biggest advantage over lacquer.
Lacquered parquet: harder, more durable surface layer, better abrasion resistance in high-traffic areas, easier to clean. In case of damage, the entire surface needs to be sanded and lacquered again.
In busy rooms — living rooms, hallways — lacquer provides stronger protection. In bedrooms or spaces with higher naturalness expectations, oil is the preferred solution.
Parquet oil can be applied to new parquet directly after sanding, on a surface prepared with the appropriate parquet primer. On old, worn, and cleaned parquet, the oil layer can also be renewed without replacing the entire parquet — this is one option for renovation without demolition.
Oiled parquet requires maintenance: regular application of care oil renews the surface and maintains the protective level. The frequency of maintenance depends on traffic and use — generally once a year is sufficient.
Browse our parquet oil products or request advice to select the treatment system suitable for your wood type and space usage.
The Kerakoll Color Collection is an integrated project that includes innovative materials - resin, cement, handcrafted wood, microcoatings, paints, and glazes - coordinated on a single color palette.
