If you are planning on refinishing your wood floor, there are a few steps you must follow. First, you must remove all furniture from the floor. Once you have removed all the furniture, spray the bottom with hardwood flooring cleaner and mop it with a terry-cloth mop. If possible, close all doors and windows. Next, use a drum sander, a big, bulky power tool, to remove the old finish. Make several passes using progressively finer grits to remove as much of the finish as possible. Make sure to sand a few inches outside the baseboard.
After the floor is cleared of all furniture, you can secure loose floorboards with finishing nails. Using a putty knife to detect protruding nails is a good idea before you begin refinishing the floor. If you have a vacuum, clear away all debris from the floor. Dust from sanding can accumulate in ductwork and doors. You can also use plastic sheeting to cover windows and doors.
Before refinishing a wooden floor, you must clean it properly and leave it dry. Dust must be removed carefully. A rag dampened in mineral spirits can be used to wipe off dust. Avoid using oil-based cleaners since they may affect the adhesion of the final layer. A final step in the refinishing process is applying a sealant. If the finish is not yet fully dry, you must wait a week before applying a new layer.
If you opt for a sandless sanding method, you must first clean the floor thoroughly. Dust from the sanding process could end up in the floor finish, making it feel rough and scratchy. Furthermore, dust may fall into the walls and make them look dull. If you decide to go this route, make sure to thoroughly clean the floor before the process. After this, your floor should be ready to accept the new coats of finish.
Another way to choose the right contractor for refinishing your wood floor is to contact the Better Business Bureau. These organizations will have a list of the complaints filed against contractors. However, a well-intentioned contractor should be able to settle any problems in a professional manner. Finally, you should check the contractor’s license, insurance, and certification. Deep scratches are easier to repair with trowel filling, but these solutions may not be durable enough.
Engineered wood floors are also tricky to refinish. Most of them have thin layers of wood veneer attached to an inexpensive base material. To refinish these floors, you must be sure to purchase an engineered wood floor that has at least 1/8 inch of real wood veneer. You should also be sure to check the thickness of the veneer, as thinner veneer could reveal plywood underneath, which is not repairable. So, it is best to hire a professional.
In addition to being more durable, wood floors can be expensive, but refinishing is more affordable than replacing them. Wood floor refinishing typically costs between $3 and $7 per square foot. And, it’s a great way to avoid the expense of new flooring while giving your home a new look. There are a number of ways to save money on refinishing. Once you have selected a professional, you’ll be surprised at the difference in cost.
Before beginning any wood Floor Refinishing, you’ll want to make sure that the floor has been completely sanded. If there is any wax left, it will damage the surface and make it more vulnerable to scratches and dents. The new finish will not adhere properly to a waxed floor. However, a professional will perform the refinishing process with great care and accuracy. It will restore the floor to like-new condition.
There are two main types of polyurethanes. One is water-based, and the other is oil-based. The former is easier to apply and dries more slowly. While the latter is a good choice for staining wood floors, it can also be hazardous to workers. Water-based polyurethanes are generally recommended for refinishing wood floors. They are best applied with a high-quality brush.