- Asses the damages. This step is important because it tells you how much prep you’ll actually need to do. For instance, if you have scratches that go all the way through the wood, you’ll want to consider some sort of sanding before getting to the painting aspect. However, if you have more superficial scratching you can typically get away with a simple buff instead.
- Get your tools handy. Once you know what you’re getting yourself into, there’s a few things you’ll need. First is sandpaper for those tough deep scratches and hard edges you’re contending with. Next, is a buffer which can typically be rented at any home center (be careful with these, they tend to get away from people). And last for your prep is a vacuum to suck up the dust particles form your buffing.
- Add your protecting coats. Once you’ve properly prepped, it’s time for the polyurethane. This is a clear finish that protects your wood and gives it that shiny new look you’ve been dreaming of. It’s highly durable and will last you for years making sure that you don’t have to refinish your flooring too often.
- Wrap it all up. With your finishing touches, be sure that you’ve gotten into all of the tough corners and after letting it dry for the allotted amount of time, be sure to clean it. Once you’ve done this it’s time to move back into the space. Be mindful of furniture and try to limit scratching as much as possible so that your finish stays fresh for years. Get protectors that you can put on the bottoms of the furniture and consider area rugs for places that tend to get a lot of foot traffic or are susceptible to damage.
How to Refurbish Existing Hardwood
Hardwood floors are a classic centerpiece of many homes. They provide a timeless elegance that other materials simply can’t, as well as give you the ability to style your home almost any way you want around it. This being said, hardwood flooring eventually tends to need a little refurbishing. Here’s how to refurbish existing hardwood floors in your home: