The beauty of the perfect surface

In 1984, Kährs was the first flooring manufacturer in the world to develop an entirely solvent-free production process. Hence, eliminating the use of harsh chemicals.

Coloring our lives

Staining brings out the character of a wood floor. There are dark and pale stains used for different kinds of wood.

“Staining is the best job in the world – to take this living, natural material and turn it into something modern and trendy. It’s a fabulous job!” says Katarina Andersson with enthusiasm.

“Our new Oak Nouveau Snow in the Classic Nouveau Collection is the most beautiful thing, it really is! First we add a stain to the surface, then we sand it and apply a white finish. This creates a beautifully lye-washed floor, but with white reinforcement of the color. Snow is absolutely fantastic!”

Wood sections for emphasis

Katarina explains how they work to bring out the dark areas of the rings and the grain by making them gleam and look larger. She also explains how different wood species have to be dealt with differently. For instance, the color of Oak is not really brown as many people believe, but green. To assist them with their job, they have what are known as “standards”; samples of deviations that are accepted.

“This is really important when we mix the stain. Depending on the wood, we have to adjust the amount of finish and stain that we use.”

The soft and pale wood species are more difficult to work with. Maple and Beech are particularly unforgiving since streaks would shine through and the slightest color variation can be seen clearly on the smooth surface.

“Oak is the easiest wood to design. 1-strip flooring made from bronze Oak is absolutely fascinating. Devoting yourself entirely to the task. The result is breathtakingly beautiful.”

The team doing refining and surface treatments work closely together, as well as with staff working on the final inspection of the boards.

“We see each other all the time. People come to me and show me their boards, then we carry on refining the parameters until the process is able to flow smoothly and the end result is perfect.”