Hardwood floors can develop nicks, stains, and scratches over time. Luckily, hardwood floor sanding can remove these imperfections. This professional service is the best way to restore worn flooring. If you’ve never had your floors sanded, learn more about how this service can benefit your home with this helpful guide.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Hardwood Floor Sanding

What can sanding fix?

Hardwood floors have a protective seal to prevent scratches and stains. This seal erodes over time due to foot traffic, UV exposure, and spills. Without the seal, stains and cosmetic damage will eventually appear on the planks. Moisture could also cause the wood to warp, creating uneven spots.

Hardwood floor sanding is a refinishing technique that removes cosmetic wear to create an unblemished and level wood floor.

What’s the process like?

Professionals will first remove any molding around the base of the walls to expose all of the flooring. They’ll then use specialized sanders to refinish discolored and damaged areas. Once they’ve sanded out stains and gouges, they will use an orbital sander on the joints between each board.

Once the technician achieves a smooth, clean surface, they’ll apply your stain of choice with a brush. Finally, they will apply a polyurethane finish to create the protective moisture barrier.

How can I prepare?

First, remove all furniture and decor to give workers access to the floor. Look for a sanding company that uses dust-free methods to ensure quick, clean, and safe service.

Even with dust-free sanding, the team may take extra precautions by sealing air ducts in the room to protect your HVAC ductwork. Ask the professionals what steps you can take, such as hanging drop cloths over open doorways. Sawdust and the finishing chemicals are unsafe to breathe, so consider stepping out while workers are sanding.

How can I preserve my new flooring?

Refinished floors are ready to walk on after 24 hours. Carefully place furniture and attach protective felt pads to the bottoms of the legs and bases to prevent future damage. Lay down area rugs in high-traffic areas or if you have pets to minimize scratching.

American Floors provides dust-free hardwood floor sanding and refinishing services throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Since 1976, these experts have specialized in historic floor restoration and provided new floor installation using premium materials. Call (401) 433-0530 to speak with a representative or visit the website to learn more about their services.