Frequently Asked Questions

Billings, MT

Proper care of your newly finished floors begins with following the guidance from our team regarding when it’s safe to re-enter your home or building. Only enter at the recommended time, wearing clean socks, open windows for ventilation, and leave the area promptly. If the finish still feels tacky, avoid walking on it and contact us. You can safely return after about 4–6 hours.


Handle your floors gently during the first 2–3 weeks. Wait at least 24 hours before wearing shoes on them and a minimum of 3 days before placing heavy furniture. All furniture should have felt pads on the legs to prevent scratches.


Rolling casters can damage the floor, so use protective pads under them. Area rugs should be added no sooner than 3 weeks after finishing, and always place a non-slip rubber pad underneath to protect the wood and prevent movement.

 Hardwood Floor Care Tips


Never Wax A Swedish Finish Floor ──

To keep your hardwood floors looking their best, start by sweeping, dust mopping, using a “dry” Swiffer, or vacuuming with a wide brush attachment—avoid spray dusting products. After three weeks, you can clean the floor with a damp sponge mop or well-wrung cloth using cool water mixed with white vinegar (approximately ½ cup per gallon). Wipe dry with a towel if desired.  We also offer floor recoating for previously Swedish-finished floors, providing a refreshed, like-new shine at a fraction of the cost and mess of full sanding. Recoating helps reduce scuff marks but will not remove scratches, dents, or water-induced discoloration. This process works best on floors that have been properly maintained—never waxed, cleaned with soaps, or exposed to foreign substances such as dusting sprays, hair products, paint, or oils like Murphy’s Oil Soap.

Floor Ventilation Information ──

Once Soft Touch Design has applied the Glitsa Swedish Finish, it’s important to ensure good airflow to clear any remaining fumes and odors from the space.

  • Why Ventilation Is Important

    Glitsa finishes contain solvents that evaporate into the air. Without proper airflow, these fumes can cause discomfort such as headaches, nausea, or breathing issues. Ventilating the space ensures that these fumes are replaced with fresh outdoor air, making your home or business safe to occupy again.

  • When to Begin Ventilating

    Ventilation should begin approximately 12 hours after the finish has been applied. This may vary depending on factors like:


    • Temperature
    • Humidity
    • How thick the finish was applied

    Your flooring contractor will determine the ideal time to start ventilating. A good sign to look for is when the floor is dry to the touch, which helps prevent airborne dust from sticking to the new finish.

  • How to Ventilate Effectively

    The best way to ventilate is to:


    • Open windows and doors on opposite sides of the room or building to create a cross-breeze.
    • Use box or attic fans to help push the solvent-laden air out and pull fresh air in.
    • Ventilate the entire building, not just the finished area, since fumes can migrate.

    Note: Some of the solvent fumes are heavier than air and will settle low to the ground unless you actively circulate air. As a rule of thumb: if you still smell solvents, keep ventilating.

  • When the Space Can Be Reoccupied

    Most structures can be safely re-entered 24 hours after the finish is applied—provided that proper ventilation has occurred. The finish will continue to cure over the next 2–4 weeks, during which light odors may still be noticeable.


    If an odor is still present during this curing period, continue ventilating. Individuals who are sensitive to chemical fumes may want to delay re-entry a bit longer to be safe.