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The first step in refinishing hardwood floors involves thorough preparation. Clear the room of furniture and fixtures, and ensure the floor is free from nails, staples, and debris. This is also the time to repair any visible damage such as deep scratches or broken planks. Applying wood filler can address gaps and minor imperfections.
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Sanding is the heart of the refinishing process. It requires patience and attention to detail. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper on a drum or orbital sanders. This will remove the old finish, along with scratches and stains. As you progress to finer sandpaper, you’ll reveal the smooth floor. Using an edge sander for the corners and along existing baseboards to get a smooth finish. Making sure there is even pressure on the machines and moving with the grain of wood is important.
Advanced methods exist for levelling floors during the sanding stage.
This process is dirty, loud and dusty. Make sure you are wearing proper ear protection, along with a mask or respirator.
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Once sanding is complete, you will need to inspect the floor for any damage. Look for large gouges in planks or scratches sanding did not remove. Fill any small gaps, nicks or missing edges with a filler to ensure a uniform finish. Sand down any filled areas before moving to the next stage.
In some cases, plank replacement needs to occur on large areas of damage.
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Before any stain or finishing coat is applied to the exposed hardwood, it must be clean. Using a high quality vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter will remove dust and debris from the hardwood. Then thoroughly tack the floor with a microfiber tack mop. If dust is not removed, it will cause uneven surface or a gritty feeling when a stain is applied. Restarting the entire process over again.
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Once the floors are smooth, repaired, and clean, you can apply stain. You can choose a gloss, semi-gloss, or matte sheen to complement the decor of the room or house. Make sure to apply the stain evenly for a consistent look. Stain will protect the floor from daily wear and tear.
HFS carries polyurethane, oil-based, or water-based stain depending on your preference and wood type.
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Once the floors are stained, regular maintenance is key. Clean hardwood with soft brooms or vacuums for daily cleaning. Or use a damp mop with a safe and friendly cleaner for deeper cleans.
Proper cleaning is vital for maintaining the beauty and longevity of hardwood floors. Begin with regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove surface dirt and grit.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp mop with a gentle, pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner. Along with making sure your cleaner is pet safe, if you have pets in your home.
Avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into seams and damage the wood.
For stubborn stains, use a soft cloth and a cleaning solution approved for hardwood. Regular cleaning not only keeps your floors looking pristine but also extends their life.
Repairing hardwood floors can restore their original charm and extend their life span. We offer advice on the products to use to achieve the best result. For scratches and small dents, a wood filler and a matching stain can work wonders.
For larger issues, such as cracked or warped planks, replacing the affected sections may be the only option. Age related separation or environmental changes can create gaps that cause larger issues.
When it comes to hardwood repairs, if it feels like too large of a task, contact an expert to repair the floor.
At HFS, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience with hardwood refinishing and installation. We are equipped to guide you through most aspects of hardwood flooring care.
As experts, we try to stay up to date with the latest trends, products and techniques in the industry. Ensuring you have the right advice and tips for your projects.
Whether you are a professional flooring contractor or DIY enthusiast, we are here to support you.
