This range covers two different stages of a floor's life: primers, which go down before a lacquer is applied, and treatments, which protect and maintain a floor that's already finished. We stock primers from Bona, Junckers and Loba in clear, white and natural options, alongside finish protectors and specialist treatments from Elka for floors already in daily use. Getting the primer right affects how the topcoat bonds and how the final colour looks, so it's worth checking compatibility with your chosen lacquer before ordering. Call 020 8830 9785 if you want a hand matching a primer to your finish.
Primers: what they're for and how to choose one
A primer sits between bare wood and the topcoat. It seals the grain, improves adhesion for the lacquer going on top, and in many cases shapes the final colour of the floor. Clear and natural primers keep the wood looking close to untreated, which suits anyone going for a raw, unfinished look while still getting the protection of a proper finish underneath. White primers do the opposite, lightening the wood for a washed or Scandinavian-style floor, with the final shade depending on how many coats go on.
Compatibility matters more here than with most other products in this range. A primer made for water-based lacquers generally needs a water-based topcoat, and mixing systems from different manufacturers can affect adhesion or cause the finish to look uneven. If you're unsure what a primer pairs with, checking the brand's own lacquer range first is the safest starting point.
| Primer type |
Effect on the wood |
Typically paired with |
| Clear / natural |
Keeps a near-untreated look |
Water-based lacquers from the same brand |
| White |
Lightens the floor, whitewash effect |
Water-based lacquers, multiple coats for more effect |
| Solvent-based |
Warms lighter woods slightly gold |
Solvent-based or compatible water-based lacquers |
Treatments: keeping a finished floor protected
Once a floor is sealed, treatments and finish protectors take over from primers. These products aren't for changing the wood's appearance, they're for defending the finish that's already there against scuffs, abrasion and everyday stains. Finish protectors are formulated differently depending on whether the floor is lacquered or oiled, since the two finishes react differently to cleaning products, so it's worth picking one matched to what's actually on your floor rather than a generic option. Scuff removers and all-purpose cleaners round out the range for tackling marks without resorting to abrasive scrubbing that can dull the finish.
FAQ
Do I always need to prime a wood floor before lacquering? Most manufacturers recommend it, since priming improves how the lacquer bonds to the wood and gives more even colour absorption, particularly on woods with variable grain. Skipping it can lead to patchy colour and weaker adhesion.
Can I use a white primer to lighten a dark wood floor? To an extent. White primer works best on lighter species like oak, where it creates a washed effect. On naturally dark woods, the underlying colour will still show through, so the whitening effect is more subtle.
What's the difference between a finish protector and a normal floor cleaner? A finish protector is designed to build up a layer of protection against scuffs and abrasion over repeated use, whereas a standard cleaner just lifts dirt. Using both, a routine cleaner for daily upkeep and a protector periodically, gives the best long-term result.
My primer and lacquer are different brands, is that a problem? It can be. Compatibility between primers and topcoats isn't guaranteed across brands, and mismatched systems risk poor adhesion or a cloudy finish. If you're combining brands, it's worth calling us to check compatibility before you start the job.
