When it comes to restoring the beauty of your hardwood floors, refinishing is an art — and a science. Here’s what the full process looks like from start to finish.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Floor
Before starting any work, you must determine whether your floor is solid hardwood or engineered wood.
- Solid hardwood floors can typically be refinished multiple times.
- Engineered wood floors can also be refinished, but only if the top layer is thicker than 5mm. Anything less risks sanding down to the plywood base.
Step 2: Sanding with the Big Machine
The refinishing process starts with a professional-grade sanding machine, commonly referred to as the Big Machine:
- First Grit (36-grit): This removes the old finish and deep scratches.
- Corner Sanding (Edger): After the initial sanding, an edger is used around the walls and tight areas with 80-grit sandpaper.
- Second Pass with Big Machine: Now you’ll use an 80-grit on the Big Machine for a finer, smoother finish.
- Hand Edging (Palm Sander): Use a palm sander with 60-grit to blend the edge sanding marks with the rest of the floor.
- Buffing: Finally, use a buffer machine to smooth the floor one last time.
Step 3: Vacuum and Dust Removal
After sanding, vacuum thoroughly to remove every trace of dust — this ensures a flawless finish.
Step 4: Staining (Optional)
Now it’s time for color. Choose your desired stain shade.
- For lighter colors, you can apply the stain directly.
- For darker stains, use a water and alcohol mix to open up the wood pores for deeper absorption.
- Apply using a spray bottle or mop and allow to dry fully before sealing.
Step 5: Sealing and Finishing
- Apply a Sealer one hour after staining.
- After another hour, apply the first coat of water-based polyurethane.
- Wait 1.5 hours, then lightly buff the floor with 220-grit for smoothness.
- Apply the final coat of finish, and your floors will look like new.
Let it cure for 24 hours before replacing furniture.
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Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Your Air Filters
After sanding and refinishing your floors, airborne dust can clog your HVAC filter quickly. Always replace your air filter right after a refinishing project to protect your HVAC system and your family’s health.
Also, dust often settles in air ducts — a professional duct cleaning may be a smart idea.
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