Timber Floor Refurbishment Extends the Life of Your Wooden Floors
Timber floors are a common type of floor used in homes and commercial premises. Timber floors are popular options because they are durable, authentic and comfortable to walk on. Over time, these floors may get damaged and lose their original shine. Such floors require proper sanding and restoration to fix these problems and to restore the floor to good condition.
Timber floor restoration is a comprehensive service that involves repairing floorboards, stripping the old finish from the surface, and applying a new, clean finish to the floor. Timber floor restoration can significantly extend the life of your floors.
The process of timber floor restoration
During the restoration process, professional builders will carry out the following steps:
Preparation
The room that is to be worked on is cleared of any furniture and coverings are removed from the floor. Dirt and debris are also removed, as these may clog equipment and lead to scratches. Screws and nails are then hammered into place or removed in order to prevent potential damage.
The main aim of the preparation stage is to leave the floor surface as clear and accessible as possible.
Repairing the floor
The next step that is carried out is to determine if any repairs need to be done to the floor. Common problems include damaged floorboards and holes/gaps in the floor. Floorboards that are rotting or infested with worms need to be disposed of immediately. However, most floorboards can be saved and simply need to have their gaps filled.
Timber Floor Sanding
When the floor has been cleared of all debris and has been repaired, sanding can be carried out. The sanding process involves a 3-step technique: rough, medium and fine sanding.
During the rough stage, contractors remove the old finishing and level the boards to ensure an even landscape. The medium sanding removes any left-over imperfections on the floor, while the fine sanding is mainly a touch-up that ensures the timber is ready for finishing.
Finishing
Also referred to as staining, the floor is applied with a stain that is chosen according to your desires. There are many options available, from light and dark stains to different shades and tones. Popular trends in timber floor sanding involve the use of dark or white-washed colors. Grey tones also always look stylish.
Remember that staining an improperly sanded floor further magnifies the underlying imperfections. Therefore, work closely with your flooring contractor to develop a timber floor restoration strategy that suits your needs. Contact a professional builder whose services have been tried and tested.