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Everything You Need to Know About Refinishing Hardwood Floors

December 27, 2018

For homeowners or business owners who are thinking of refinishing hardwood floors, the project is one of the best approaches to increase value.

But if you don’t know how to refinish hardwood floors, the project can be dangerous and costly. Before you tackle that hardwood project make sure you know the process.

Stay Safe

With hardwood floor refinishing, or any other project, the first priority has to be safety. Using a buffer can pose safety risks for both amateurs as well as seasoned professionals.

The good news is that many stripping machines are safer today than ever. There are new vacuum mechanisms for machines today than there were years ago.

Using the proper safety breathers, gloves, and eye protection is a must.

You also need to check the safety risks with the products you are planning on using. Some stripping products have resulted in deaths.

Consider the Floor

Before any flooring project, it is important to consider the age and condition of the floor. If your floor is in terrible condition, you may want to pass over the refinishing.

The wrong refinishing project can do irreparable damage to your floor. You may be better off replacing.

Clean The Floor

A key part of the process some people miss is cleaning the floor. Your floor should be spic and span before you start the sanding process.

Yes, You Need to Strip the Floor

Are you considering refinishing the floor without doing any stripping first? You’ll be wasting your time and getting bad results if you do.

Even if you think there is hardly any finish on the floor you need to sand it down first. One reason is that there is likely still residue from the old product on the floor, even if you can’t see it.

The second is that the finishing product won’t bind to the floor correctly unless you sand it first.

Oil-Based or Water-Based?

Water-based finishes have come a long way in recent years. They dry faster and will make it easier to apply a second coat.

From a maintenance standpoint, you will want to refinish your floor every couple years either way. Opting for the water-based products will protect your wood floor and keep it in pristine condition.

If you have questions on which type of products to use, make sure to talk to a professional.

Trust The Experts in Refinishing Hardwood Floors

Unfortunately, many homeowners and business owners opt for discount approaches when it comes to refinishing hardwood floors. All too often the result is a job that needs to be redone.

Rather than saving money, the DIY approach could cost you more in the long run. This goes beyond just the initial refinishing and affects the life of the floors themselves.

With the proper maintenance, your hardwood floors should last a lifetime. Fitzpatrick Painting can help.

Customers love Fitzpatrick Painting because we offer fantastic service and a professional approach. Our experience in restoring wood floors allows our customers the best value for their floor maintenance.

Don’t wait. Get a free estimate on your hardwood project today.

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