Location
PROJECT SHOWCASE
Reclaimed Sapele Floor Restoration — Heworth, Gateshead
Old varnish was carefully sanded from this reclaimed Sapele floor in an entrance and WC, revealing a far richer range of natural timber tones.
- Reclaimed Sapele
- Old varnish removed
- Bona Traffic HD Silk Matt
Project summary
Distinctive Reclaimed Timber Revealed
Floor
Reclaimed Sapele plank
Areas
Entrance and WC
Final Finish
Bona Traffic HD Silk Matt
The starting point
Old varnish was masking the Sapele
The existing varnish had dulled the floor and reduced the definition between individual planks. Reclaimed Sapele naturally carries considerable colour variation, so the aim was to remove the tired coating without trying to make the timber look artificially uniform.
The timber
Natural variation became the feature
As sanding progressed, reddish, golden and darker tones emerged across the reclaimed boards. That variation is part of the floor’s identity and was retained rather than disguised.
Restoration process
How The Floor Was Restored
Assessment
The old varnish and reclaimed boards were checked before work began.
Controlled Sanding
The varnish was removed progressively to expose clean Sapele.
Preparation
The floor was refined and prepared for an even protective system.
High-Performance Finish
The timber was sealed and protected with two coats of Bona Traffic HD Silk Matt.
The result
A richer, more expressive reclaimed floor
The finished floor now shows the depth and natural variation of the Sapele while a durable Silk Matt system makes the entrance and WC practical for everyday use.
Before and after
Reclaimed Sapele Restoration Details
Sanding the old varnish
View ProjectsFresh Sapele exposed
View ProjectsFinished reclaimed floor
View ProjectsProject details
Project Details
Previous Finish
Varnish
Restoration
Full sanding and preparation
Coating
Two coats Bona Traffic HD Silk Matt
Related services
Services Used On This Project
Dustless Floor Sanding
Controlled sanding and careful preparation for worn wooden floors.
Learn MoreStaining & Finishing
Colour treatments and protective finishes selected around the timber and room use.
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