cgm79 Posted May 2, 2023 Share Posted May 2, 2023 I'm using cherry wood candle wicks for a hardwood floor. They look terrific and they are easy to work with, but . . . the moisture content of the wood glue I'm using is making them curl up at the edges. Weighting with heavy books flattens everything out. I'm afraid they'll start curling up when it gets really humid. I'm trying to figure out what kind of finish I can use to block moisture absorption. I'm considering an oil-based polyurethane finish, but was wondering if anyone has other/better suggestions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fov Posted May 2, 2023 Share Posted May 2, 2023 I just googled candle wicks and they look perfect for flooring! I don't think you'll have a problem with curling once the glue dries, but you might try tacky glue instead of wood glue to prevent that initial curling. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LPCullen Posted May 2, 2023 Share Posted May 2, 2023 I almost always clear coat my wood floors with clear gloss spray paint-usually two coats Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Medieval Posted May 3, 2023 Share Posted May 3, 2023 What about waxing the floors? I was nosy and looked it up too. Soy wax is best on thecwicks if you're going to use them in a candle. Won't waxing also block moisture? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cgm79 Posted May 14, 2023 Author Share Posted May 14, 2023 I've finished a 12x12 inch section of floor. Despite using heavy weights immediately after placement, the wood continue to warp. However, I've just spent a good 15 minutes sanding this area and it looks a lot better -- almost smooth. Since I have the polyurethane on hand, I'll try that on this section. If it works, great! If it doesn't I'll be moving on to some of your other suggestions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mid-life madness Posted May 14, 2023 Share Posted May 14, 2023 Hopefully once it completely dries, the warping will stop. Have you tried a non-water based glue? https://www.amazon.com/s?k=non+water+based+glue&hvadid=570536609203&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9030810&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=9593769033445329033&hvtargid=kwd-338118372897&hydadcr=21304_13319127&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_6d7vnijfj5_e Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alessia88 Posted June 7, 2023 Share Posted June 7, 2023 Instead of an oil-based polyurethane, you might want to explore water-based polyurethane finishes. They tend to have lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and dry clear, providing a protective coating while minimizing the risk of moisture absorption. Another is Epoxy resin which is a durable and moisture-resistant coating that can provide a glossy finish. It creates a hard and protective barrier that should help block moisture absorption and potentially prevent the curling of the cherry wood wicks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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