A search on this topic yields only three passing references, and I'm curious.

Does anyone here have experience with or opinions about OSMO Hardwax Oil as a floor finish. According to the supplier, this finish is as durable as polyurethane, easily repairable, and environmentally friendly. Sounds too good to be true.

Here's the link to a supplier for info:
http://www.phoenixorganics.com/index.asp?cat=168988

That product is routinely used in Scandanavia. Here in the USA, only old timers are very experienced with wax products. Sorry to say, I have not used it. I have seen pics of it used and heard good things but cannot attest to it's durability or ease of use.

We specialize in OSMO Hardwax Oil. It is a very durable product, and the very best thing is that it is REPAIRABLE. Have professionaly applied to 100 of residences and businesses in the Seattle area. Check out this link for more info.

http://www.environmentalhomecenter.com/ ... ARDWAX_OIL

Roz
LeBlanc Floors
www.leblancfloors.com

Roz,

Thanks. Are the floors pictured on your web site all finished with OSMO? I'm trying to get a feel for the sheen. The floors you depict look pretty much like satin.

Bill

Yes all the photos are OSMO except the one that has the kitchen island in the photo.

I used Osmo on my floor, (see http://www.vrijetijdstad.nl/floor), works great. It's pretty popular here in the Netherlands.
The more coats you add, the shinier (and more durable) it gets. Coats need to go on real thin, and are very easy to apply, you can't go wrong there. I applied with a buffer, but you can also apply with a thick brush (Osmo sells a special floor brush for that). If you applied too much you can just wipe it off. Normally two coats are enough, but you can add a third coat in a heavy traffic area for example.
If you want a more shiny appearance, you can buff it with Osmo wash & care.
It works less good with tropical dense dark woods (dries less good and doesn't penetrate as deep).
I like the fact that it really gives a beautiful 3D depth to the wood.

The only disadvantage: you need to be thorough when sanding, because it will show scratches and swirl marks more than a poly.
On the other hand, if you see scratches after your first application, you can sand them out locally and recoat.

Regards,
Bas

Does anyone have any experience with this finish over radiant heat? Any problems with discoloration, etc?

Greg

Bas,

Thanks for the detailed reply and the link to the great pictures. That's quite a floor! I'm committed to poly on my current DIY project. But I'm intrigued enough to try OSMO the next time around. (I can't believe I'm saying "next time.")