Learn About Refinishing a Hard Wood Floor

Refinishing hard wood floors will restore their original beauty. Because wooden floors are usually structurally sound, it is worthwhile to have them refinished and resurfaced rather than replaced.

Prepare unfinished or older floors by removing molding and setting any finishing nails that may be sticking out. Fill little holes and cracks, allow to dry and then begin sanding with special edge and drum sanders. Remove dust and apply a protective sealant.

Staining planks is one option - or you can let the natural grain show through. Refinish in either a high or low gloss satin look making sure to lightly sand between the application of each coat.

Due to advances in technology total refinishing is not always necessary. Hard wood products have been improved over the years with finishes that are durable and tough to stand up against stains and wear.

Polyurethane is a popular alternative that has replaced shellac, lacquer and varnish. Maintenance is simple and although small repairs are possible, they could be noticeable.

Hard wood flooring finished with a ceramic or aluminum oxide coating has incredible resistance to abrasion as well as being stain and scratch resistant. Easy to maintain, these floors are difficult to repair.

An acrylic impregnated wood floor offers excellent durability because the finish is forced into the hardwood itself and so penetrates the whole surface. Scratches are easily fixed with a spray that makes them disappear completely. Water might leave a permanent spot if it is not mopped up.

Hardwoods can often be repaired depending on the type and the extent of the damage. If there is a minor chip or slight dent, a color blended filler will work. Touchup kits help cover marks and chips. If boards are more severely damaged, they may need to be removed.