How Do I Sand And Refinish Wood Floors

Sanding and refinishing wood floors is a great way to improve the look of your home and increase its value. It can also be a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little know-how, you can do it yourself. Here are the steps on how to sand and refinish wood floors:

1. Prepare the floor

Remove all furniture and other objects from the room.

Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any dust or debris.

If the floor has any nails or screws protruding, hammer them down or remove them completely.

2. Sand the floor

Rent or purchase a floor sander. There are two main types of floor sanders: drum sanders and orbital sanders. Drum sanders are more powerful and can remove more material quickly, but they can also be more difficult to control. Orbital sanders are less powerful, but they are easier to control and can get into tight spaces.

Start sanding in the corner of the room and work your way out. Overlap each pass by about 1 inch.

Sand the floor until the old finish is removed and the wood is smooth. This may take several passes.

Vacuum the floor to remove any dust created by sanding.

3. Apply a new finish

Choose a finish for your floor. There are three main types of floor finishes: oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, and penetrating oil. Oil-based polyurethane is the most durable, but it can also be the most difficult to apply. Water-based polyurethane is easier to apply, but it is not as durable as oil-based polyurethane. Penetrating oil is the least durable, but it is also the easiest to apply.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the finish. Apply the finish in thin, even coats.

Allow the finish to dry completely before walking on the floor.

Here are some additional tips for sanding and refinishing wood floors: