Wood Floor Refinishing How To

If your wood floors are looking worn and tired, refinishing them is a great way to restore their beauty and extend their lifespan. Refinishing wood floors is a big job, but it's one that can be done by do-it-yourselfers with the right tools and materials. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you refinish your wood floors like a pro.

1. Prepare the Floor

The first step in refinishing your wood floors is to prepare the floor. This involves removing all furniture and fixtures from the room, as well as any carpets or rugs. Once the floor is clear, sweep and vacuum it thoroughly to remove any dust or dirt. If the floor has any nails or screws that are sticking up, hammer them down flush with the surface of the wood.

2. Sand the Floor

Once the floor is prepared, it's time to sand it. This will remove the old finish and smooth out the surface of the wood. You can rent a drum sander or an orbital sander from your local hardware store. If you're using a drum sander, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Orbital sanders are easier to use, but they will take longer to sand the floor.

Start by sanding the floor in the direction of the grain. Use a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the old finish. Once the old finish is removed, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface of the wood. Be sure to sand evenly and avoid gouging the wood.

3. Clean the Floor

Once the floor is sanded, it's important to clean it thoroughly. This will remove any dust or debris that could interfere with the new finish. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dust, then wipe the floor down with a damp cloth.

4. Apply the Finish

Now it's time to apply the finish to the floor. You can choose from a variety of finishes, including polyurethane, varnish, and lacquer. Polyurethane is the most durable finish, but it can also be the most difficult to apply. Varnish is a good choice for floors that will receive a lot of traffic. Lacquer is a fast-drying finish that is easy to apply, but it is not as durable as polyurethane or varnish.

Before applying the finish, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Some finishes require thinning before they can be applied. Apply the finish in thin, even coats, using a brush or a roller. Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

5. Buff the Floor

Once the final coat of finish has dried, it's time to buff the floor. This will help to smooth out the finish and give it a beautiful shine. You can rent a floor buffer from your local hardware store. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

6. Enjoy Your New Floors

Once the floor is buffed, it's ready to enjoy. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing the finish. This will typically involve waiting a few days before walking on the floor or placing furniture on it.

Refinishing your wood floors is a big job, but it's one that can be done by do-it-yourselfers with the right tools and materials. By following these steps, you can refinish your wood floors like a pro and restore their beauty and extend their lifespan.