How to Refinish Hardwood Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hardwood floors are a classic and timeless addition to any home. They add warmth, character and can increase the overall value of a home. However, over time, hardwood floors can become dull, worn and lose their shine. Refinishing old hardwood floors is a great way to bring back the shine and make them look like new again. In this guide, we will explore the process of refinishing hardwood floors. We will discuss the pros and cons of refinishing, and provide a step by step guide on how to do it yourself. It's important to note that refinishing is a great option if the damage is limited to the surface and the subfloor is in good condition, if the damage is more extensive or the subfloor is in poor condition, replacement may be necessary. The guide will focus on refinishing and will not cover replacement.

Pros of refinishing hardwood floors:

• Cost-effective: Refinishing is generally less expensive than completely replacing the flooring
• Customization: Refinishing allows you to change the color and finish of your existing hardwood floors
• Preservation of original flooring: Refinishing allows you to preserve and restore the original hardwood floors in your home

Cons of refinishing hardwood floors:

• Time-consuming: The process of sanding, staining and finishing can take several days to complete
• Dust and debris: The sanding process can create a lot of dust and debris that needs to be cleaned up afterwards
• Limited by existing condition: If the floors are severely damaged or warped, refinishing may not be a viable option and replacement may be necessary.

It's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to refinish your hardwood floors and consult a professional if you have any doubts about the condition of your floors.

Step 1: Assess the condition of the floors

• Before you can decide whether to refinish or replace your hardwood floors, it's essential to evaluate their condition. Begin by looking for signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, and stains. Also, check for any structural damage, such as warping or cupping. If the damage is limited to the surface and the subfloor is in good condition, refinishing may be a suitable option. If the damage is more extensive or the subfloor is in poor condition, replacement may be necessary.
• One helpful tip for assessing the condition of your floors is to use a penny test. This involves placing a penny upside down on the floor and seeing if the copper part of the penny is visible. If it is, it means that the finish on the floor is worn down, and it may be time to refinish. Another tip is to use a flashlight to inspect the floors in different lighting conditions. This can help reveal any imperfections that may not be visible in regular lighting.
• It's also worth noting that hardwood floors that have been previously refinished multiple times may have a limited amount of sanding they can take before they become too thin. It's important to keep in mind that if you are planning to refinish your floors, you will need to rent or purchase the necessary equipment such as a drum sander, edger, and orbital sander. Additionally, you will need to purchase the sandpaper and finish of your choice. If you're not comfortable with using power tools or don't have experience with woodworking, it may be best to hire a professional to do the job for you.

Step 2: Prepare the room

• Preparing the room for the refinishing process is crucial for a successful outcome. Once you have determined that refinishing is the best option, the first step is to remove all furniture and decorations from the room. This will not only make it easier for you to move around and access all areas of the floor, but it will also protect your possessions from dust and debris.
• Next, cover doorways and vents with plastic sheeting to contain dust and debris. This will prevent dust from spreading to other areas of the house and make cleanup easier. Additionally, cover the floor with a drop cloth to protect it from scratches and spills.
• For an even more thorough job, you can also remove the baseboards and door frames. This will allow you to reach all the nooks and crannies that are not reachable with the floor sander. Removing the baseboards and door frames will also help to prevent damage to them while sanding the floors.
• A tip to make the process easier is to label and number the baseboards and door frames as you remove them. This will help you keep track of where each piece belongs and make it easier to reinstall them later on. Another tip is to use masking tape and plastic sheeting to protect any areas that you don't want to be sanded. This will help to keep your walls and other areas free from dust and debris.
• It's also worth noting that if you are planning to stain your floors a different color, it's a good idea to do a test on a small hidden area before starting the main project. This will allow you to see how the color will look on your specific floor and make any necessary adjustments before applying it to the entire floor.

Step 3: Sand the floors

• Sanding is the most important step in the refinishing process as it removes the old finish and smooths out any imperfections in the wood. The sanding process typically involves using progressively finer grits of sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish.
• Start with a coarse grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and any stains, and then progress to a finer grit to smooth out the wood. Be sure to follow the grain of the wood and pay close attention to the edges and corners, as these areas can be more prone to imperfections.
• If you are not experienced with sanding, it may be a good idea to rent a floor sander from a hardware store. Floor sanders are designed to evenly sand large areas quickly and efficiently, which can make the process much easier and produce a better result.
• When sanding, wear a dust mask, goggles, and ear protection. Keep windows open and use fans to exhaust dust out of the room. Be sure to clean the floor thoroughly after each pass with a vacuum and a damp cloth, otherwise, the fine dust will smear and make the next pass less effective.
• A tip to make the process easier is to divide the room into sections and sand one section at a time. This will help you keep track of where you have been and where you need to go next. Another tip is to use a fine grit sandpaper on the final pass, this will help to achieve a smooth finish and minimize the amount of filler you need to use.
• It's also important to note that sanding can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. If you are unable or unwilling to do it yourself, you may consider hiring a professional to do the job for you. This can save you time and effort and ensure that the job is done correctly.

Step 4: Clean the floors

• After sanding, it is important to thoroughly clean the floors to remove all dust and debris. This step is crucial as any remaining dust or debris can affect the finish and overall appearance of the floors.
• The easiest and most effective way to clean the floors is to use a dry mop or vacuum to remove as much dust as possible. Then use a damp mop or rag to clean the floors. Be sure to wring out the mop or rag thoroughly to avoid leaving any excess water on the floors.
• A tip for making the cleaning process easier is to use a dampened microfiber cloth or mop head, as they can effectively trap dust and debris. Another tip is to use a cleaning solution specifically designed for hardwood floors, as it can help to remove any remaining dirt and stains.
• It's also important to note that after cleaning the floors, they should be allowed to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the humidity and temperature of the room.
• Also, it's important to be aware that the cleaning process can be messy, so it's advisable to cover the floors, walls, and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect them from dust and moisture.

Step 5: Apply the finish and stain (if desired)

• After cleaning and drying the floors, it's time to apply the finish and stain (if desired). If staining, use a brush or rag to apply the stain, following the manufacturer's instructions for the specific stain you're using. Allow the stain to dry completely before proceeding with the finish.
• For the finish, you can use a roller or brush, depending on the size of the area you're working on and the type of finish you're using. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific finish you're using, as different finishes have different application methods and drying times.
• One tip for an easy application is to use a roller with an extension handle, which will allow you to apply the finish without having to bend over and strain your back. Additionally, using a paint tray liner can make cleanup a breeze. It's also important to note that multiple coats may be necessary, and it's important to allow enough drying time between coats.
• If you are not sure which finish or stain to use, it's a good idea to consult with a professional or go for a polyurethane finish, it is durable and easy to apply. Also, it's worth mentioning that some finishes and stains have a strong odor, so it's a good idea to have proper ventilation during the application process.

Step 6: Allow the finish to dry

• Once you have applied the finish, it's important to allow it to dry completely before replacing any furniture or decorations. The drying time will depend on the humidity and temperature in the room, as well as the type of finish you used. Generally, it can take several hours to a day for the finish to dry completely.
• To speed up the drying process, you can use a fan or open a window to increase air flow in the room. Keep in mind that the finish will be dry to the touch, but it may not be fully cured for several days.
• It's important to avoid heavy foot traffic or moving furniture on the floors until the finish is fully cured to ensure the best final outcome.
• It's also important to note that, during the drying process, it's advisable to avoid pets and children from the area to prevent any accidents or smudging the newly finished surface.

Refinishing old hardwood floors can bring back the shine and increase the value of a home. It is a relatively simple DIY project that can be done in a weekend or two. However, if the damage is extensive or the subfloor is in poor condition, replacement may be necessary. This is a more involved and expensive project that typically requires the services of a professional. Regardless of whether you choose to refinish or replace your hardwood floors, be sure to carefully assess the condition of the floors and prepare the room before starting the project. Following these steps, and taking the time to carefully sand, clean, and apply the finish, will ensure that your hardwood floors look beautiful for years to come. And If you're not sure about how to do it or feel uncomfortable, it's always best to consult with a professional, they can help you decide which option is best for your specific situation and guide you through the process.