Are your hardwood floors showing signs of wear, with unsightly scratches and worn patches? It is recommended that you refinish your hardwood floors every ten years. However, for those heavily trafficked rooms in your home, you may want to refinish those floors every two to five years. The refinishing process includes preparing your floors, sanding them down, staining, and then refinishing. Once complete, your hardwood floors should look and feel brand new, enhancing the beauty and value of your home for years to come.

Preparing Your Floors

The first task you must undertake when you are refinishing your floors is to prepare the floors. This includes the removal of any furniture or carpet and rugs in the room. You will also want to check for any squeaks and loose boards, as well as any protruding or loose nails in the floorboards. 

You will want to seal any air vents that could collect dust during the sanding process. This will prevent anything from getting into your home’s ductwork. Plastic sheeting can also be used to seal doorways and keep dust from the sanding process from escaping into other areas of the home. Additionally, you want to remove any debris from the floor with a dust mop or a vacuum. 

Sanding Your Floors

This step of the process may seem somewhat simple, however, to avoid any unwanted dips or severely damaging your floors, you will want to use extreme care in this step. It is also important to remember to wear protective gear for your eyes, ears, and breathing. 

Always follow the direction of the wood grain, never across the grain. Sand in overlapping passes that get you as close to the wall as possible without touching your baseboards. Once the main area of the floor is complete, you will then sand along the edges and corners of the room. Take extra care in the corners and be sure to remove every little bit of old finish. 

Staining And Finishing Your Floors

Before you begin applying your stain (if you decide to use stain) it is important to thoroughly examine and clean the freshly sanded area. Once the area is cleaned and you have decided on the color of stain you wish to use, apply the stain and allow it to dry. The stain must dry completely before topcoat application, so be sure to allow it to dry at least overnight. 

Once the stain is dried, you can apply your finish. Two of the most common hardwood floor finishes are water-based and polyurethane. The drying time for each of these is different so pay careful attention when applying either. Polyurethane typically dries within eight to twelve hours, while water-based finishes can dry in as little as two to four. Curing time, however, can take much longer so you should take caution when moving heavy furniture or placing rugs back down. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Refinishing Floors

If you’re considering giving your hardwood floors a fresh look, you’ve come to the right place. In the following section, we’ll cover everything from the refinishing process to maintenance tips to help you make informed decisions for your flooring needs. Please let us know if you have any additional questions. 

How do I know if my wood floors need refinishing?

Homeowners often wonder about the signs that indicate it’s time to refinish their wood floors. Common indicators include scratches, dullness, discoloration, and wear patterns. If the finish is wearing off or if the wood appears damaged, it may be time to consider refinishing.

Can I refinish my wood floors myself or should I hire a professional?

It’s normal to be unsure whether you should tackle refinishing as a DIY project or hire a professional. While it’s possible to refinish floors yourself, it requires specialized equipment, skills, and knowledge of different wood types and finishes. Hiring a professional ensures a high-quality result and can save time and hassle.

How long does the refinishing process take, and what is involved?

The refinishing process involves several steps. The duration of the project depends on factors like the size of the area, the condition of the floors, and the chosen finish. Typically, the process involves sanding the floors to remove the old finish, applying a new finish or stain, and allowing adequate drying time before walking on the floors again.

How many times can my floors be refinished?

The number of times you can refinish your wood floors depends on the thickness of the veneer and the quality of the wood. Solid hardwood floors can typically withstand 3 to 5 refinishing cycles, while engineered wood floors may have around 1 to 3 cycles. Consult with a flooring professional like Cavalier Builders to determine the best approach based on your specific floors’ condition and type.

How soon can I walk on my floors after being refinished?

The drying time can vary depending on the type of finish used. Water-based finishes tend to dry faster, usually allowing you to walk on the floors within 24 hours. Oil-based finishes may require a bit longer, often around 48 hours, before they are fully cured. Always follow the recommendations provided by our flooring professionals for the best results and to protect your newly refinished floors.

Will I have to leave during the refinishing process?

Whether you need to leave your home during the floor refinishing process depends on factors like the size of the area being refinished, the type of finish being applied, and your tolerance for odors and noise. While it’s not always necessary to leave, it’s often recommended, especially if you have respiratory sensitivities or if the fumes from the finish are strong. Discuss your options with our flooring professionals to determine the best course of action for your situation.

Contact Us For Your Refinishing Needs

Undertaking some home flooring projects can be daunting sometimes which is why here at Cavalier Builders, we provide our clients with friendly service and professional results. We have been family-owned and operated since 1999, so we understand the importance of a home and having it look and feel its very best. If you are in or around the La Mirada, CA, area and are interested in having a free in-home consultation and estimate, contact us today.