Hardwood floor refinishing is a fun project that will assure you of making your home beautiful as youREALATED: shimmer again. Whether you desire to refinish your old floor or want a new look on your floor, it is great to use the right tools and materials in doing it. Below are some tips to assist you to compile all that is required in the job from:
[Susan Collins, Writer and Editor, The Journal Company, Torrance, California]
1. Sanding Equipment
Sanding is the first process that has to be done in the refinishing of hardwood floors. This process helps in the removal of the previous finish and make the surface of the wood to be even. You’ll need:
Floor Sander: To smoothen you will need a drum sander or an orbital sander. The drum sanders are very powerful and productive specially for large areas while the orbital sanders are easier to use and perfect for small areas.
Edger: There is also an edger that gets used to sand the floor edges and corner areas which are hard to reach by the larger sander. A coat of paint or any other application to the wall requires one to be uniform in their application so as to achieve the best finish.
Sandpaper: One thing that you will need includes sandpapers and these will be in various grit levels. Use the initial sandpaper of a coarser number, normally between thirty six- sixty, then work your way to sandpaper of a medium number; eighty to one hundred, after that fine sandpaper of one hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty.
2. Cleaning Supplies
Once sanding is complete, thorough cleaning is necessary to remove all dust and debris before applying the new finish:Once sanding is complete, thorough cleaning is necessary to remove all dust and debris before applying the new finish:
Vacuum: It may need a very good vacuum so as to pick up the dust, which is a result of sanding.
Tack Cloths: These sticky cloths will come in handy when washing the floor since they assist in wiping out the hallow fine dust particles on the surface of the floor.
Mop and Bucket: For using the damp mop for cleaning the floor and making sure that no stuff is left behind.
3. Finishing Materials: Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Selecting the correct finish is important if the right type of finish for the right look and the right life span is to be arrived at. You’ll need:
Wood Stain: If you want to alter the appearance of the hardwood floors, choose a wood stain which is suitable with the existing décor. There is a wide selection of stain colours and these enhance the grain patterns of the wood.
Sealer: A sealer of course serves to seal the pores of the wood and at the same time prepare a good surface for the final coat. It is used most often as a sealer before the finish is applied.
Finish (Polyurethane or Varnish): Polyurethane is the most commonly used since it is hard wearing yet easy to install. There are two types of polyurethanes namely, the oil-based polyurethanes and the water-based polyurethanes which have various qualities of finishes and drying durations. Oil based finishes will give a more dark and warm appear while water based ones will dry so much quicker and are Transparent.
4. Application Tools
Applying the finish evenly and efficiently requires the right tools:Applying the finish evenly and efficiently requires the right tools:
Brushes: When applying stain and sealer it is advisable to use high quality brushes. For polyurethane a synthetic brush is appropriate since it will notleave bristles on the surface of the item being painted.
Rollers: A high-density foam roller is useful in applying finish as it was described as a way of spreading finish on large surface areas.
Applicator Pads: These are to use while putting the polyurethane in a neat and an even coat of color.
5. Safety Gear
Refinishing hardwood floors involves sanding and applying chemicals, so safety is paramount:
Dust Mask: To cover your lungs from the dust which is usually produced by sanding process.
Safety Goggles: To cover your eyes from dust and any splashes of chemicals which may be present in the laboratory.
Gloves: It is used to protect the hands from the chemicals and the finishes that may be used during refinishing process.
6. Miscellaneous Supplies: Hardwood Floor Refinishing
A few additional items will make the process smoother:A few additional items will make the process smoother:
Painter’s Tape: To protect base boars; moldings and any other area that should not come into contact with the stain or finish.
Drop Cloths: In order, to minimize the impacts of dust and falling debris on adjacent areas it becomes necessary to employ barriers.
Floor Buffing Machine: A valid one for providing the final coat having an even appearance.
Conclusion
Sand and refinish hardwood floors requires proper tools and materials to achieve a professional finish. By gathering essential sanding equipment, cleaning accessories, finishing products, application gadgets, and protective gear, you can ensure a perfect job. It’s wise to invest time and effort into your hardwood floor refinishing projects to boost the appeal of your home. For expert guidance, consult a flooring and refinishing guru to help you through the process and ensure top-notch results.