Can you change the colour of parquet flooring? Everything you need to know

Parquet is one of the most elegant and warm flooring options there is. It brings character, sophistication and a cosy touch to any room. However, over the years it's normal for it to lose its shine, get scratched, or simply stop matching the decorative style you're after in your home. This raises the key question: can you change the colour of parquet flooring? The answer is yes, and there are different methods to achieve it, each with its own advantages and particularities.

In this article we're going to look at how to transform the colour of your parquet, what techniques exist, what you should keep in mind before doing it and whether it's really worth it. We'll also look at why more and more people are also asking whether you can paint parquet, as a practical and affordable alternative.

Why change the colour of your parquet?

There are many reasons why someone might want to change the colour of their parquet. The most common are:

1. Updating the home's look. Dark colours bring elegance, but they can make small spaces feel more cramped. On the other hand, light tones like grey or bleached oak add spaciousness and brightness.
2. Covering up wear. Over time, parquet suffers scratches, stains or areas discoloured by sunlight. Changing the colour is a way to give it a second life.
3. Adapting to new trends. Decor evolves, and what was fashionable years ago can look outdated today.
4. Unifying styles. If you've renovated your home and want everything to match, changing the tone of the parquet can be the perfect solution.

Can you change the colour of parquet through sanding and varnishing?

The most traditional and effective technique for changing the colour of parquet is sanding. This process involves removing the surface layers of the wood, eliminating varnish, stains and scratches. Once sanded, the parquet is as good as new and ready to be treated with a new finish.

At this point you can apply a wood stain or a pigmented varnish to give it the colour you want. The results are very natural because the wood grain remains visible.

This method is recommended if:

• Your parquet is solid or quality multilayer wood.
• You want a durable, hard-wearing finish.
• You want to keep the natural look of the wood.

Can you paint parquet?

Another very common question is whether you can paint parquet. The answer is also yes. Nowadays there are special enamels and paints for wood floors that allow you to fully cover the original tone and give it a new colour.

Painting parquet is a very interesting option if you're after a radical change, such as going from a wood tone to a smooth white, a uniform grey or even bolder colours. It's also usually quicker and cheaper than traditional sanding and varnishing.

That said, there are a few things to bear in mind:

• Paint covers the natural grain of the wood, so the floor loses that characteristic parquet look.
• Several coats and a final seal are needed to ensure durability.
• It requires more frequent maintenance compared with traditional varnishes.

Advantages and disadvantages of each technique

Sanding and varnishing/staining

• ✔ Keeps the natural essence of the wood.
• ✔ Greater durability.
• ✔ Wide range of wood tones.
• ✘ Can be more expensive.
• ✘ The process is longer and requires specialised machinery.

Painting parquet

• ✔ Radical, modern change.
• ✔ Faster and cheaper.
• ✔ Possibility of colours that are unusual for wood.
• ✘ Less durable if not looked after.
• ✘ Loses the natural texture of the wood.

Tips before changing the colour of your parquet

Before diving into changing your floor, it's important to consider a few key aspects:

1. Check the condition of the parquet. If it's very damaged, it might be best to replace it.
2. Choose the tone with the future in mind. Neutral, timeless colours are easier to maintain and combine with your decor.
3. Consult professionals. Both sanding and painting require experience to guarantee a uniform, long-lasting finish.
4. Consider your home's lighting. In spaces with little light, lighter tones can be the best option.

Current trends in parquet colours

In recent years, the most sought-after colours for parquet are:

• Natural oak: a classic that never goes out of style.
• Grey tones: modern and versatile.
• Whites or whitewashed finishes: ideal for Nordic and minimalist settings.
• Deep dark shades: like wenge, perfect for adding sophistication in large rooms.

In short, yes, you can change the colour of parquet, and there are several ways to do it. From the traditional sanding and varnishing with stain, to painting with specific enamels, each option offers different finishes and advantages depending on your needs. If you're looking to keep the natural essence of the wood, sanding and varnishing is the best choice. But if you prefer a radical, quick change, painting could be the ideal alternative.

And if you're thinking about taking the plunge, at Payresa we specialise in restoring and treating wood floors. If you're looking to install parquet in Málaga, we offer personalised advice, high-quality products and a professional team that will handle transforming your parquet with the best results.

If you liked this article, you may also want to read: “Sliding or hinged doors: which is the best option?”

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