Refinishing Hardwood Floors

Restore The Beauty Of Your Floors

Refinishing is a means to increase durability of the hardwood floor and enhance its overall appearance. This process is typically a three-stage process of sanding, staining, and finishing. If damages are present, proper repairs need to be completed prior to this refinishing process. In most cases, severe damage may require replacement of the damaged areas.

Refinishing hardwood floors is a time consuming and skill based process. Proper techniques, tools and patience for the best results are always required. Prior removal of any nails, staples or tacks from the floor to prevent tearing the sand paper is a first priority. Using the proper grit sandpaper in the sander is also a must making sure that sander follows wood grain direction instead of across the grain makes all the difference. Proper use of the equipment once in place is critical and it should not remain static while in operation. Sanding the entire wood floor, then using another grit sandpaper to remove lines and scratches on the floor is next. Keeping the room well ventilated while sanding is very important during the entire process and is also important to include a dust mask.

The quality of the wear layer determines frequency of refinishing of hardwood floors. Poor quality products can not withstand being refinished even one time. The thicker the wear layer, the more refinishing it can withstand. Good quality engineered flooring can be refinished two or three times depending on the sub-floor's smoothness and experience of re-finisher. We are here to help provide that valuable evaluation and information about your special floors.

Once the sanding is complete, you may either stain your floor it or leave as it is. Sweeping up sawdust after sanding is completed, and removal of the fine dust can be done with proper shop vacuum. If you choose to stain your hardwood floors, be sure to have the installer apply stain in the corner to confirm whether it is really your choice. A brush to apply stain in the room, or a rag are both commonly accepted practices. Make sure if required by the type of stain used, you need to coat once more after the first coat dries. Let the floor dry completely. Then go for the finish. Work areas should be ventilated properly as vapors in the finish are harmful to your health. Mixing of the finish well in the container is critical to a uniform look. Use of a brush or roller to apply the finish may also be an option. Drying may take over three hours. Application of a second coat really should be left and least overnight, and up to three days, for drying.

Often times the type of hardwood floor installed, and the type of flooring installation surface may dictate variations of the general process of restoration. Years and years of experience and a keen eye by the installer will be important for resolving problems before they happen.

The beauty of your hardwood floor should always shine through after the process is complete. Making sure this process is completed properly and that you are happy is our business. Give us a call today...