Pilatus Aircraft Works Wooden Floor Restoration

In 1939, the Pilatus Aircraft Works was founded in the Swiss town of Stans. Today, with affiliates in Switzerland, the USA, and Australia, the Pilatus Group is a global leader in the manufacture of single-engine turboprop aircraft.

In June 2008, the company undertook upgrades at its headquarters in Stans, including the first renovation of the solid oak parquet in the hangar in 40 years. This upgrade required a sealing solution with maximum resistance to mechanical and chemical stresses the surface would endure. After various tests, the parquet specialists at Bourqui GmbH in Meggen, Switzerland, decided to use Pall-X 98, a two-component lacquer specifically designed for floors subject to heavy wear. The lacquer was applied over an area of 2,600 square metres.

Surface Treatment Process:

Sanding:

Initially, the old solid oak parquet was sanded with a belt sander using 36-, 60-, and 80-grit sandpaper. The surface was then sanded with 100-grit sandpaper using a specially equipped Trio sanding machine. Following sanding, the floor was thoroughly cleaned.

Priming:

To prime the old floor, the solvent-based primer Allbase was selected due to oil contamination on the surface. The application technician from Uzin Tyro AG, in collaboration with Bourqui GmbH, decided to apply Allbase in two coats to ensure effective sealing. The drying time between applications was approximately 30 minutes.

Sealing:

Once the primed floor had dried for about 3 hours, the team began applying the PALLMANN Pall-X 98, a water-based, two-component lacquer. Given the extreme durability requirements, the lacquer was applied in three coats using a roller designed for water-based products. Application started along the edges, moving first across the grain and then with the grain. Each protective coat was allowed to dry overnight. Before the final coat, the surface was lightly sanded and cleaned with an industrial vacuum cleaner.

The outcome of the work in the large hangar was impressive, showcasing strong load-bearing capacity alongside an appealing aesthetic, enhancing the workshop's visual appeal while meeting the demanding conditions of daily use.

About Bourqui GmbH:

Founded in 1960 near Lucerne, Bourqui GmbH specialises in installing exclusive parquet floors. Now in its second generation of management, the company employs four workers and primarily operates within Switzerland.