1) Preparation

Before any floor sanding takes place, the area being restored needs to be properly prepared. This involves clearing the space by moving all furniture, rugs, and decor to create an unobstructed work area. Any nails sticking up are hammered down, and any necessary wood flooring repairs are addressed. The hardwood floors are then swept, vacuumed, and the buffing equipment is set up.

2) Buffing

We can use a floor buffer equipped with a sanding screen, typically in the range of 120 to 150 grit, to lightly sand the surface of the wood. This process helps us smooth out minor imperfections and prepares the surface for the polyurethane finish. As we move the buffer in a circular motion across the floor, we’ll overlap each pass slightly to ensure an even finish and effectively remove any old finish that may be peeling or worn.

3) Applying Polyurethane

We select an appropriate polyurethane finish (water-based or oil-based) depending on the desired look and durability. Water-based finishes dry faster and have less odor, while oil-based finishes tend to be more durable but take longer to dry. For more details on the differences between oil-based and water-based polyurethane, click here.

4) Curing

Curing is the final phase after sealing, allowing the applied finish. This step is essential for maximizing the strength and durability of the protective layer. Curing times vary, with water-based finishes generally curing faster than oil-based ones. During this period, it’s important to avoid heavy foot traffic and placing furniture back on the floor to ensure proper setting.

REAL-LIFE FLOORING EXPERIENCES

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