How to Refinish a Real Wood Floor
Refinishing a real wood floor can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve stunning results.
Before you start refinishing your wood floor, it's essential to prepare the surface. This includes:
- Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any dirt, debris, or old finish.
- If you're refinishing an existing floor with an old finish, you'll need to remove it. You can use a finish remover or sandpaper to do this. Be careful not to scratch the wood during this process.
- If your floor has gaps between the boards, now is the time to fill them. Use a wood filler and let it dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Sanding is one of the most critical steps in refinishing a real wood floor. You'll need to use a drum sander or an orbital sander with a sanding screen to smooth out the surface. Start with a coarse grit (about 80) and work your way up to finer grits (120, 150, and 220). Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratching the floor.
If you're refinishing an existing floor with old stain, you'll need to remove it. You can use a stain remover or sandpaper to do this. Be careful not to scratch the wood during this process and sand/scrape in the direction of the wood grain.
If you want to add color and character to your wood floor, now is the time to apply new stain. Choose a stain that matches the original color of your floor or opt for a different shade to create a unique look. Apply the stain according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once you've sanded and stained your floor (if desired), it's time to apply polyurethane. This clear coat protects the wood and gives it a glossy finish. You can choose from water-based or oil-based polyurethane, depending on your preference. Apply the polyurethane according to the manufacturer's instructions. You may need to apply multiple coats of polyurethane to achieve the desired level of protection and shine. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind when refinishing real wood floor:
- Work with the grain of the wood to avoid scratching the floor.
- Test your stain and polyurethane on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
- Apply polyurethane in thin coats to avoid pooling and unevenness.
