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Learn moreTimber Finishing
Expert timber finishing — protecting, enhancing and revealing the natural beauty of fine wood.
HSB Services
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Timber Finishing
The quality of a timber finish can make or break even the most beautifully crafted piece. HSB apply expert preparation and finishing techniques to bring out the very best in every timber surface.
From hardwax oils and lacquers to traditional wax and stain finishes, we advise on and apply the right treatment for your timber, your environment and your aesthetic.
Finish Types
The Right Finish for Every Timber Surface
The choice of finish affects how timber looks, how long it lasts and how easy it is to maintain. We advise and apply the right product for your timber, your environment and your aesthetic.
Hardwax Oil
A penetrating finish that protects from within while enhancing the natural colour and grain. Hard-wearing, easy to repair and the preferred choice for floors and worktops.
Danish Oil
A penetrating oil finish that feeds the timber and provides moderate protection. Ideal for furniture, shelving and joinery that won't take heavy wear.
Lacquer
A tough surface coating that seals the timber completely. Available in matt, satin and gloss. Ideal for interior joinery, furniture and kitchens.
Wax Finish
A traditional finish that feeds and protects timber, leaving a soft lustre. Best suited to furniture, panelling and decorative pieces not subject to wet or heavy use.
Wood Stain
Changes the colour of the timber while allowing the grain to show through. Available in a wide range of tones from pale to deep. Can be applied before a top coat.
Exterior Stain
A microporous, water-repellent stain specifically formulated for exterior timber. Allows the wood to breathe while protecting it from moisture, UV and mould.
Decking Oil
Penetrating oil for garden decking and external timber. Protects against moisture, UV and foot traffic while maintaining the natural look of the timber.
Varnish
A durable surface finish available in a range of sheens. More resistant to knocks and scratches than oil. Suitable for furniture, floors and joinery.
Why It Matters
Why the Right Finish Makes All the Difference
The quality of a timber finish determines how it looks, how long it lasts and how the timber performs in your environment.
Protection
A properly applied finish protects timber from moisture, staining, UV degradation and general wear — dramatically extending its life.
Appearance
The right product enhances the natural character of the timber. The wrong one hides it. We know the difference and apply what works.
Preparation
Most finishing problems come from poor preparation. We sand, fill and prepare every surface properly before a single drop of finish is applied.
Longevity
Professional application means even coverage, correct film build and proper drying between coats. The result lasts significantly longer than a rushed DIY job.
What We Finish
Timber Surfaces We Work On
We apply professional timber finishes to a wide range of surfaces — both new and existing.
- Hardwood and softwood floors
- Bespoke joinery and fitted furniture
- Staircases — treads, risers, newels and handrails
- Internal doors — primed, painted, stained or oiled
- External doors and door frames
- Timber cladding and exterior boarding
- Garden decking and outdoor structures
- Window frames and sills
- Skirting boards and architraves
- Exposed structural timber and beams
- Furniture — new build and restoration
- Workshop and hand-crafted timber pieces
Our Process
How We Approach Every Finishing Job
Assessment
We assess the timber condition, the environment it's in and how it's used. We'll recommend the best finish and advise honestly on preparation requirements.
Preparation
All surfaces are sanded to the correct grit, filled where required and cleaned down. This is where the quality of the final result is determined.
Application
Finish is applied in even, controlled coats with appropriate drying time between each. We use professional equipment and proven techniques throughout.
Final Inspection
We inspect the finished surface in good light, address any imperfections and ensure the result meets the standard we agreed. We don't leave until it's right.
Common Questions
Timber Finishing FAQs
How many coats does my floor/joinery need?
It depends on the product and the surface. Most oil finishes need 2–3 coats. Lacquers typically need a primer coat plus 2 top coats. We'll specify the correct system for your job.
How long does timber finishing take?
A single door takes a few hours. Floors and larger joinery projects may take 1–3 days, including drying time between coats. We'll give you an accurate timeline before we start.
Can you refinish existing joinery or furniture?
Yes. We strip back, prepare and refinish existing timber — bringing faded, worn or poorly finished surfaces back to life. This is often more cost-effective than replacement.
Do I need to move out during floor finishing?
For most oil and water-based finishes, you can usually return to normal use within 24–48 hours. Solvent-based finishes need more ventilation time. We'll advise for your specific job.
What's the difference between oil and lacquer?
Oil penetrates the timber and is easier to repair spot-by-spot. Lacquer forms a surface film that's harder and more water-resistant, but scratches require full re-coating. We'll advise based on your use case.
Service Area
Timber Finishing Across Exeter & Devon
We provide professional timber finishing services to homeowners, developers and businesses throughout Exeter, Devon and surrounding areas.
Exeter
Exmouth
Sidmouth
Honiton
Tiverton
Crediton
Newton Abbot
Dawlish
Teignmouth
Okehampton
Cullompton
Axminster
Budleigh Salterton
Ottery St Mary
Seaton
Bovey Tracey
Chudleigh
Broadclyst
Cranbrook
Clyst St Mary
And throughout the wider Devon area — get in touch to confirm we cover your location.
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