I have just had a new staircase fitted. It is made of American white oak and is to be exposed (i.e. not carpeted). My joiner and carpenter have both told me that I will need to treat it, but have not provided any details. I have very little knowledge of wood (it comes from trees doesn't it? 
) and so need a lot of help here. I know that there are countless waxes, oils, laquers, stains etc. on the market but haven't really got a clue about what to use and why.
The whole house is going to be re-floored with engineered oak laminate, and undoubtedly it will be different from the staircase, so changing the shade of the American white oak (which true to its name is more white than brown) is certainly a possibility, although not necessary.
Can anyone give me the basics of treating wood? Web links also welcome...
) and so need a lot of help here. I know that there are countless waxes, oils, laquers, stains etc. on the market but haven't really got a clue about what to use and why.The whole house is going to be re-floored with engineered oak laminate, and undoubtedly it will be different from the staircase, so changing the shade of the American white oak (which true to its name is more white than brown) is certainly a possibility, although not necessary.
Can anyone give me the basics of treating wood? Web links also welcome...
