How To Refinish Wood Floors Yourself

Refinishing wood floors is a great way to update the look of your home and increase its value. It's also a relatively easy project that can be completed in a weekend. Here are the steps on how to refinish wood floors yourself:

1. Preparation

The first step is to prepare the floor for refinishing. This includes removing all furniture and fixtures from the room, and cleaning the floor thoroughly. You should also sand the floor to remove any existing finish or wax.

2. Sanding

Sanding is the most important step in refinishing wood floors. It removes the old finish and smooths the surface of the floor. You can rent a drum sander or an orbital sander from your local hardware store.

Start by sanding the floor with a coarse-grit sandpaper. Then, gradually switch to finer-grit sandpaper until the floor is smooth. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain.

3. Staining

Once the floor is sanded, you can apply a stain. Stain is what gives wood floors their color. You can choose from a variety of colors, so be sure to select one that complements the décor of your home.

To apply the stain, use a brush or a rag. Work in small sections, and be sure to apply the stain evenly. Allow the stain to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

4. Finishing

The final step is to apply a finish to the floor. This will protect the floor from wear and tear, and give it a beautiful shine. You can choose from a variety of finishes, including polyurethane, varnish, and shellac.

To apply the finish, use a brush or a roller. Work in small sections, and be sure to apply the finish evenly. Allow the finish to dry completely before walking on the floor.