Protect Your Refinished Hardwood Flooring
Wood floors are known and loved because they can transform any space into something downright elegant and homey. But as any property owner with a wood floor knows, it needs some occasional care to restore and maintain its glow. That’s where refinishing comes in.
Floor refinishing is the process of reviving the appearance and extending the life of wood floors through a series of steps that involve sanding, repairing, and re-coating the wood surface. It’s an effective way to remove scratches, dents, stains, and signs of wear, restoring the floor to its original or updated look. Here’s a closer look at what the process typically involves:
The process looks something like this:
- Assessment: Experts (like Dave’s Floor Sanding) evaluate the floor to determine refinishing needs.
- Sanding: Any old finish is sanded off to smooth the wood surface.
- Repairing: Any damage like scratches or gouges is fixed.
- Staining (If You’d Like): A new stain may be applied for color change.
- Finishing: A protective layer is applied to seal and protect the floor.
We’ll review what do’s and do not’s you should be aware of once you’ve refinished your floors but for any readers who are curious about the refinishing process, both before and after, let’s first go over the major signs that your floor needs refinishing. Then we will go over how to maintain your refinished wood flooring.
Is It Time To Refinish My Floors?
The question isn’t if your wood floors will need refinishing, but when. Time, traffic, and the elements leave their marks, signalling when it’s time to breathe new life into your floors. Here’s what to look out for:
- Scratches and Wear: Everyday life leaves its mark on wood floors. From minor scratches to more pronounced wear paths, these are clear signs your floor could use a refresh.
- The Finish Has Left the Floor: If areas of your floor have lost their protective coat, leaving wood exposed, that’s like a direct invitation for damage.
- Stains and Sunlight: Deep-set stains and areas faded by sunlight exposure suggest that your floor’s finish is compromised.
If you are unsure if you are ready to pull the trigger on refinishing, you can always talk to a professional and get a quote.
How Do I Care For My Refinished Floor?
Once refinished, your floors will look as good as new, but how do you keep them that way? Here are a few tips to ensure your floors continue to look their best:
Temperature Matters
Keeping your room at the right temperature is crucial after a floor refinishing. For the first week post-refinishing, aim to maintain a room temperature between 68-75 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is optimal for the finish to cure and set properly, ensuring the longevity and resilience of your floors.
It’s not about being finicky; it’s about chemistry and making sure the finish sets up properly and your floors become strong and durable.
Don’t Rush the Rugs
After the refinishing process, your floors need some time to themselves before being covered up again. Waiting 14 to 18 days before placing area rugs or mats allows the finish to harden and adhere to the wood fully. This pause ensures that the protective layer forms correctly, safeguarding your floors against wear and tear. It’s a bit of patience that pays off in extending the life and beauty of your floors.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential immediately after the refinishing process. About six hours after the last coat is applied, crack open the windows to create cross-ventilation. This helps the finish dry evenly and clears out any lingering odors from the refinishing products. Keep the airflow going for 15-30 minutes to ensure a safe and comfortable environment in your home.
Don’t Mop
You’ll want to mop. Don’t. it’s important to give your floors a break from any form of wet cleaning. The finish on your floors is still curing, and introducing moisture or cleaning agents can compromise the seal and durability of the finish. Stick to dry methods like sweeping or vacuuming with a soft brush broom to sweep dust and debris away. If you must wet clean, only use a damp cloth without any cleaning detergent.
Furniture Shuffle
You might have noticed that patience is important to this whole process. That’s still the case here. Remember to wait at least 24 hours after the final application of finish. Wait a day before you start moving furniture back in. And when you do, lift, don’t drag, to avoid scratches and damage.
If you need to move heavy furniture, consider using felt pads, plywood over blankets, or any method that distributes the weight and avoids direct contact with the floor. This careful handling helps preserve the flawless finish and ensures your floors look great for years to come.
Keep Your Steps Soft
Keep the heels and hard soles off the floors for a while. This will help to prevent scratches or dents. Opting for soft slippers or socks can make a significant difference in keeping your floors pristine. Encouraging this practice among household members and guests can help maintain the integrity and appearance of your floors during the crucial curing period.
Do Your Floors Need a Little Love?
Just like we’ve walked you through the steps of floor sanding and caring for your newly refinished floors, Dave’s Floor Sanding is here to guide you through everything your hardwood floor needs. With over 40 years of keeping Minnesota’s floors in great shape, we’re your go-to crew for bringing out the best in your hardwoods.
Take a look at our services to learn more about everything we do!