Scratches, marked patches of urine and poop, pet dander, and other issues are likely outcomes of keeping pets in households with wooden flooring. However, on the brighter side, these issues can be fixed without much hassles. Yes, you heard it right! Experts, such as Flooring and Refinishing Guru can ensure a limpid and attractive surface for residential and commercial spaces.
Odor and color are two distinct characteristics of pets’ effects on hardwood floors. Although there are several techniques to manage the problem, we will discuss some pertinent ones for your ease.
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Use of Chemicals & Tools
Compared to old stains caused by pets, new ones can be removed with household chemicals and materials, such as:
- Absorbent Cloth or Foam (For Fresh Urine)
- Dish Soap and Liquid Water
- Grapefruit Oil and White Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Enzyme Cleaner
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Wood Bleach
N.B. These solutions do not guarantee complete reversal of the floor’s aesthetic appeal.
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Sanding & Refinishing
Pets offer immeasurable delight and companionship to humans. However, their playful antics can, at times, take a toll on hardwood floors. Scratches, gouges, and stains are common issues that homeowners encounter. Fortunately, the process of sanding and refinishing offer a cost-effective and transformative solution to restore hardwood floors to their pristine nature.
Assessing the Damage
It’s crucial to assess the extent of the damage before the sanding process. Light scratches and surface stains require less intensive restoration, while deep gouges and heavy staining demand more efforts. Understanding the nature and severity of the damage can help determine the appropriate approach and materials needed for the project.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
To successfully refinish your hardwood floors, the following tools and materials are mandatory:
Safety equipment (goggles, mask, ear plugs, and shoes).
Floor Sander (drum sander or orbital sander)
Sandpaper
Wood filler
Choose the Appropriate Stain or Finish
Brushes and Applicators
Floor Buffer
Rags and Cleaning Supplies
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Preparing the Area
Remove the fixtures and other materials to ensure a clean, unobstructed work area. Moreover, cover vents and openings to prevent dust from spreading throughout your home. Open windows and doors to ensure a flow of fresh air during the refinishing process.
Sanding the Floors
Proper sanding is the key to a successful refinishing project. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and work your way up to finer grits. Sand the entire floor along the wood grain and make sure to remove old finish and scratches. Pay extra attention to pet-damaged areas, feathering out the sanding to blend them into the surrounding wood.
Repairing Damage
After sanding, inspect the floor for deep scratches or gouges: Use wood filler to fill these imperfections. Allow the filler to dry thoroughly before sanding it smooth with a fine-grit sandpaper.
Staining and Finishing
Choosing the right stain and finish is essential to achieving the desired look and durability for your hardwood floors. Apply the stain evenly (in small sections) and let it dry. Once the stain solidifies, apply the finish using even, long strokes. This layer enhances the wood’s natural beauty and provides resistance against pet damage.
Buffing and Polishing
To achieve a smooth and lustrous finish, use a floor buffer equipped with a fine-grit sanding screen or pad. This step will remove any minor imperfections and create a polished appearance. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure, as it may damage the finish.
Eradicating stains and odor caused by pets is not an easy task. You need to apply techniques and methods according to the issue on hand. Connect with a reliable firm like Flooring and Refinishing Guru for a fool-proof stain removal process today!