How to Clean and Maintain a Solid Oak Fireplace Surround

Solid oak fire surrounds can be finished in a variety of different ways, these can include clear lacquer finishes, clear and coloured oils and waxes.

The most popular is clear lacquer and will seal the oak for life.

The process consists of firstly preparing the timber by way of sanding the oak to a smooth finish, applying a coloured stain if required, clear sealer lacquer is then applied which seals the oak and lifts the grain. The fireplace surround is then left for a period of time to dry.

When dry, the oak fireplace is again sanded to a smooth finish and sprayed with a light coat of stain in order to achieve the correct shade and colouring, a final coat of clear lacquer is applied to finish.

To maintain a lacquered oak fireplace surround it should be cleaned using a damp cloth only, try to avoid using spray on waxes as this will tarnish the lacquer over time.

All repairs can be made by sanding out the damaged area and applying a clear varnish to the bare wood.

Waxed oak fireplaces

Waxed oak fireplaces will require regular re-waxing due to the wax drying out over a period of time. Varieties of waxes are available and are all suitable for re-coating but most are tinted to also colour the wood so select the finish you require.

Apply the wax with a soft cloth using a circular motion in order to penetrate the grain and when dry to the touch remove the excess wax with a soft cloth and buff to finish.

All repairs can be made by again sanding down the damage, applying coloured filler if required and applying wax to the area and leaving to dry. A second coat may be required.

Oiled oak fireplaces.

Oiled oak fireplaces will also require regular re-coating with an oil or similar product to keep the fire surround looking at its best, but be careful when choosing oils that are available as most are tinted products and will naturally change the colour of the fire surround over time.

To repair a damaged oiled oak fire surround, sand down the damaged area with firstly a heavy sand paper and sand to a smooth finish with fine sand paper, apply your chosen oil with a soft cloth or paint brush and leave to soak into the grain, when dry to the touch wipe over with a clean cloth to finish.

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