| If you have been wanting to refinish your hardwood flooring, then you have probably been searching to see if it is possible to do the work yourself in order to save some money. The following will present the basics to give you an idea of what refinishing really requires before the actual sanding process, especially if you want to avoid compete floor installation.
1. Preliminaries
The first thing to look out for is sagging or soft boards. You will need to replace these before you start the floor refinishing. It is also advisable to look at the wall edges of the hardwood flooring to see if there is a history of many sandings. This may mean that it simply is time to opt for complete floor installation.
2. Filling in the Cracks
Some cracks that are visible are something that should stay; these allow the floor to expand when needed because of heat and cold changes. Filling cracks at the ends of the flooring boards is recommended.
3. Anything Loose Must Go
If there is any sort of material not attached by nailing on the hardwood flooring, then you will need to remove it before the refinishing begins. Do a good sweep. Pliers can get rid of carpet staples. A nail set can even out nails that are rough and sticking up. Block the windows and doors form dust loosening with plastic sheets.
4. Creaks and Buckles
These should be noted and repaired or removed before sanding the hardwood flooring.
The following is a list of materials needed when you are ready to perform floor refinishing:
A. Putty knife
B. Putty scraper
C. Drum sander
D. Buffer
E. Floor edger
F. Palm sander
G. Ear plugs
H. Masks
I. Shop vacuum
J. Lambs wool brush
K. Tack cloths
L. Safety goggles
Further research can be done here to learn how to actually begin your sanding and refinishing. Visit http://www.earet.com/ for more. |
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