Hardwood floor contractors often get requests that initially seem impossible, such as changing a wood floor color without having to sand.
Refinishing hardwood floors without sanding is possible if they’re free from waxes and chemicals that prevent adhesion of new finishes, though this process may prove more complex.
Preparation
Preparing to refinish hardwood floors without sanding requires proper planning in order to guarantee success and achieve customer satisfaction. This includes clearing away dirt, dust, debris that could cause issues with the new finish as well as clearing away furniture/rugs/etc and vacuuming thoroughly to make sure all areas have been addressed.
If you want to buff the floors to restore their shine, renting a buffer in advance and clearing out the room are two key elements to success. Professional services may also have all necessary equipment and experience for this task, which would save time.
Another option for rejuvenating floors is using revitalizers, similar to liquid sanders but creating less dust. If this method is chosen, be sure to follow all product instructions closely for optimal results and allow your floors time to dry before walking on them or replacing furniture.
Sanding
Hardwood floor contractors often receive requests that seem impossible–such as changing the color of hardwood floors without sanding them. But with products like Bona Floor Refinisher, such as filling gaps between boards with polymer resin that hardens to form a solid surface that can then be stained or painted to suit customer tastes, anything is possible!
An alternative approach for refinishing hardwood floors without the use of sanding is called screen and recoat technique, in which old finishes are removed using a buffer, before being buffed down using another layer. It produces less dust than conventional sanding processes.
Refinishing floors that are still relatively in good condition but have become dull due to accumulations of scratches and wear patterns is an effective solution. It should not be used on those that have extensive damage such as deep scratches or cupping/crowning issues; nor will it work on unfinished wood flooring or those stained using chemical etching (more about this later). Before beginning this procedure, ensure there is adequate ventilation and that you are prepared for large amounts of dust!
Staining or Painting
Apply a new coat of finish as the final step to restoring hardwood floors. Timing may vary depending on the product used and conditions in the room; please follow manufacturer’s instructions closely to avoid delays.
Once the finish has dried, it’s important to give the floor several hours for full cure before walking on it. This allows time for its bond to form fully with the wood surface and protect it against future damage.
If this is your first time refinishing floors, be sure to conduct a test using mineral spirits first. This step will ensure there are no waxes or other substances present that would prevent new finishes from adhering properly; otherwise you may need to sand before continuing; for any areas with deep scratches it’s best to screen and then reapply the finish.
Sealing
Dependent upon the finish you select (oil or lacquer), this step may involve applying two to five coats. This will seal and protect the floor from moisture, scratches and general wear-and-tear, while protecting its new stain or finish against dirt, dust or debris that could scratch it or discolor its appearance.
Before applying any finish, thoroughly clean the floors using a product designed specifically for hardwood flooring. Take extra precaution in vacuuming and dismantling doors from their hinges in order to ensure no microscopic particles get between your new finish and wood, which could prevent proper adhesion of its coating.
Make sure that when applying new finishes, they adhere to manufacturer specifications and allow enough time for drying before walking on them or reassembling furniture – depending on which kind you use this can take between several hours and an entire day – for your refinishing project to succeed and safeguard its investment in your property.