Refinishing hardwood floors is a great way to restore the natural beauty of your home’s original floors. Neglected wood that has seen better days can take on a whole new look with refinishing. It can even convert a worn, dull look to a beautiful shiny finish that adds vibrancy to any room. Taking on a refinishing project can feel like a daunting task, but with the right tools and steps, you’ll be on track for a beautiful and lasting finish.
Before beginning your project, you must purchase the correct sanding tools and products. Renting heavy-duty floor sanders instead of hand sanding can save time and provide a smoother surface finish. Sandpaper comes in various sizes and will need to be changed depending on the area being sanded. Most importantly, be sure to purchase the right sealant for your type of wood floor. Polyurethane is often the recommended sealer.
After purchasing your materials, you must start by preparing the area. This involves removing any furniture in the room and patching up any nail holes, cracks, or other damage. Once the room is prepped, you can begin sanding the wood. A drum sander should be used for larger rooms and a random orbit sander smaller areas. Go over the entire surface until the wood is smooth and the original stain is fully removed.
Applying Stain and Sealant to Refinish Hardwood Floors
Once fully sanded, apply the chosen stain with a foam brush and a clean cloth. Let the stain dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When dry, apply at least two coats of sealant using a brush, foam roller, or spray applicator. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper curing times.
When the sealant is fully cured, you may wish to polish the floors to bring out a bright shine with an electric floor polisher. This step is optional but can add an amazing, showroom finish to your newly refinished hardwood floors.
Stains and Finishes for Refinishing Your Hardwood Floors
Choosing the right stain or finish for your floors depends on where the wood is located, the type of wood, and the desired look. Some of the more popular finishes include oil-modified urethane, Swedish finish, natural oil, and wax. Oil-modified urethanes are good for high-traffic areas because of their durability. Swedish finishes provide a natural look to the floor. Natural oils bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
Stains come in a variety of colors and can be used to complement any décor. Be sure to choose a stain recommended for the type of wood being used. Additionally, the floors should be stained before the sealant is applied. This will help to keep the wood protected and the color consistent throughout the area.
Wax is a good choice for low-traffic areas. It should be applied and buffed after the sealant has fully cured. Applying wax often helps protect the wood and can add a glossy shine to the finished surface.
After Refinishing Maintenance
- Wipe up spills immediately
- Use floor mats and area rugs
- Choose gentle cleaning products
- Avoid wax and oil based cleaning products
- Remove heel marks promptly
- Polish floors on a regular basis
Conclusion
Refinishing hardwood floors is a great DIY project that not only saves money, but also adds value to your home. Taking the time to choose the proper products and tools and follow the correct finishing steps will ensure you have beautiful looking floors that will last for years.