While it is not possible to change the color of the original wood, many homeowners are surprised to find out that you can change the overall color of your hardwood floors by sanding and refinishing them. Engineered hardwood may not be able to be sanded if the top layer of wood isn’t thick enough, and very old floors that have already been sanded and refinished multiple times might not be able to undergo this change, but nearly every solid hardwood floor can go through this transformation.
Why would you want to change the color of your hardwood floors?
There are many reasons homeowners would like to change the color of their floors. One of the most common reasons is that they have purchased a new home with hardwood floors and are not happy with the current color. This may be due to the condition of the floors, their plans for decorating, or just personal preference. If you’re unhappy with the color or state of your floors, refinishing them is a great way to update them and create a comfortable space for you and your family.
How to change the color of your hardwood floors
Changing the color of your hardwood floors is a moderately difficult process and requires specialized tools and knowledge. However, the process is straightforward, and can either be done yourself or hired out to a professional. The first step is to sand the floors using a sanding machine. This typically takes 3 sandings, using a slightly finer grade of sandpaper on each one. This strips the coating and prepares the raw hardwood to accept the stain and polyurethane for an even, smooth, and durable finish. The next step is to stain the floor. This is the part that actually changes the color of the wood. If you’re not familiar with the types of stains that are appropriate for each type of hardwood, a professional should definitely be consulted. Each color should be tested on the floor in order to make sure you’re achieving the desired look. The last step is to add polyurethane to create a protective layer over your floors. This usually requires 2-3 coats, with a buffing process after the 2nd layer and between any subsequent layers to ensure a smooth and protective barrier. If you have any questions about the process of sanding and refinishing your floors in order to change the color of your hardwood, stop into one of our 3 locations, or give us a call at (813) 254-4066 to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
