Refinishing faded and damaged wooden flooring is a very simple process that can be done by most do-it-yourself homeowners with the use of woodworking tools. It is also an easy way to add new life to a room or to make it look brand new again. Wood floors are highly desirable in many homes due to their timeless beauty as well as being very affordable. However, like any other kind of flooring, the condition and life span of wood floors depend on how they are cared for and installed.
The first step in refinishing a damaged wooden floor is to find out the exact cause of the damage. This is important because different wood types react differently to treatment. If an existing stain was previously applied, using wood floor polish may be necessary to restore the floor to its former appearance. If the damage is caused by water seepage, the wood will need to be soaked and the surrounding areas will need to be treated as well, if possible.
The next step is to find a high quality wood stain to match the existing stained wood on the floor. Refinishing wood floors with a matching stain gives the floor a new rich sheen and helps it look new once more. There are several different wood stains to choose from such as latex, electrostatic, pigment based, and clear stains. Some staining kits include wood preservatives to prolong the shelf life of the stain. Stained wood floors can also be made to order, which will require that the original stained floor is removed and a new one stitched to replace it.
While it is not necessary to sand the floor after staining, it is highly recommended. Sanding removes the final trace of color from the wood and can cause the floor to appear worn and outdated. A high quality sealer can be used to help protect the floor against future damage and to prevent fading from excessive sun and water exposure. Faded and damaged wooden floors can often times be repaired and restored to near new condition with just a little time and effort. With just a small amount of time and investment, you can restore your floor to its original beauty.
It is important to know that refinishing wood will most likely have flaws in it that will need to be corrected before the floor can be considered completely restored. Even the most perfect wood cannot resist extreme changes in temperature and humidity levels. Furniture placed on the floor before it has been refinished may have become warped or even dropped. Items such as pictures or other decorative pieces can even become cracked or warped over time. While these flaws are not usually very noticeable to the untrained eye, they must be corrected before the floor can once again be considered usable.
No matter what type of wooden floor you have, refinishing it will improve its appearance and value. If you are looking to sell your home, you will find that a beautiful floor will add value to your home in comparison to a comparable floor that is in better condition. Refinishing a wood floor also adds years of life to the floor giving you many years of enjoyment out of your floor. No matter what type of floor you have, refinishing it will add value, beauty, and life to your home.