Recoating is simply applying a fresh coat of finish to your hardwood floors. This service often confused with refinishing, though similar they are different services. You are not removing the original finish on the floor with recoating as you are with refinishing. It is common for hardwood floors to be recoated more than once during the life of the hardwood floor and when you do you have the option to completely change the color of the finish, to retexture, or just reapply the same finish that is preexisting. Today, we at D&M Carpet Cleaning, would like to further expound on recoating your hardwood floors.
DIY VS Professional Hardwood Floor Recoating
It is normal for the wear and tear of your hardwood floors to occur. Wood floors can look unsightly and old from the worn patches and scratches. Recoating can be an easy solution to rejuvenate your hardwood floors without going through the extent of refinishing them. If any repairs were made or need to be made, recoating is a good option to even out the finish. Additionally, recoating is more cost-effective than refinishing. Professional recoating services are optimal because DIY projects can make a simple mistake, forcing you to get them refinished. If you still prefer to recoat yourself, see the steps below.
Tips for Recoating Hardwood Floors
1) Know the Current Finish; Wax or Polyrethane. Before you dive in, be sure you know exactly what finish is currently on the flooring. You’re working with a polyurethane finish, as long as the floor has no wax finish. If you don’t know whether you have a polyurethane or wax finish, perform a simple spot test in an inconspicuous area, like the corner.
Spot Test: Dip a piece of extra fine steel wool in water or mineral spirits and with it, rub the floor. If the floor has a wax finish, the steel wool will have a grey smudge or dirty looking film. Wax is particularly difficult to remove especially if it has excessive buildup from cleaning with soaps or products with wax in it over the years. If you try to recoat with a polyurethane finish, it will likely not adhere to the wood efficiently.
2) Prepare for Recoating of Hardwood Floors. After you know the finish, prepare the recoating project by lightly sanding the floor; also referenced as buffing, scuffing, or screening. Do not sand down to the bare wood, once you have finished sanding, you will end with a smooth surface.
3) Thoroughly Clean Hardwood Floors. Following the sanding, you will want to ensure the floor is efficiently cleaned. Start by using the vacuum to extract as much dust as possible. Go over the surface with the pure mineral spirits that has dampened a rag. Other cleaners will leave behind a residue that impacts the recoating. Before completing the next step, allow the floor to dry entirely. Match up the color of the finish, if you do not already know. This can be difficult, but you can perform a patch test to select the right color. Generally, you will only need to match coat a hardwood floor is if you are repairing a portion of the floor.
4) Apply the Hardwood Flooring Finish. Start at the floor edges next to the walls. Similar to a paint roller, use a long- handled foam or lamb’s wool applicator, apply the rest of the finish to the entire floor. Use long even strokes and go with the grain. You can then apply a clear polyurethane coating after the finish is completely dry. Remember to keep the room properly ventilated at all times.
Hardwood Floor Cleaning, Recoating & More in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell, Duluth, Stone Mountain, Covington, Conyers, Loganville & Atlanta Georgia
This is more of a process than people realize, to be sure your recoating service is done right and efficiently, call D&M Carpet Cleaning.
