- Evaluate the Damage
Keep in mind that some stains are forever. For example, deep pet stains will most likely need to have the wood replaced, not sanded. There are some bleach solutions made for hardwoods, but these might leave your flooring pitted and blotchy. Evaluate the damages in order to save yourself time and aggravation and consider purchasing new hardwoods or even luxury laminate flooring in San Diego if your floors are frequently exposed to pets, children or heavy traffic. - Prep the Room
Start by covering doorways with plastic and removing all furniture. You’ll also want to remove any doors leading into the room so that you can sand under where the doors would be. You’re also going to want to cover up your vents to keep any dust out of the ducts and it is best to turn off your heating or cooling system to reduce the amount of ventilation. - Do a Nail Check
Making sure nails are set into the floorboards serve two purposes. The first is to make sure that any loose floorboards are secured. The second is to make sure that your sandpaper won’t tear while sanding. An easy trick to check for nails that have protruded from the floor is to run a metal snow shovel over the floor, listening for the impact. You can then hammer in the nails so that the head of the nail is level with the floorboard, also known as countersinking the nails. - Rent from Professionals
This job will need two tools: a sander and an edger. We recommend renting from a flooring or a home improvement store so that you will have access to professionals who can provide additional advice on how to start and complete the project. Be sure that you understand how to operate all of the tools you are renting and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you know, the better you’ll be able to complete the job. - Pick a Grit
Picking a grit isn’t always easy, and usually a trial and error process is needed. Most of the time a 36-grit is needed. If this doesn’t work, move down to a 24-grit and possibly a 16-grit. Change your belt frequently. As you kick up dust it will be hard to see just how effective the sanding is, so judge by distance and don’t assume the job is getting done.
Tips for Sanding Hardwood Floors
Are your hardwood floors worn and tired? Perhaps it’s time to update them and give them a fresh look. While you can always purchase new hardwood floors in San Diego, your floors might just need a little refinishing. If sanding your vintage hardwood floors sounds like an intimidating project, worry not because there are a few simple steps that can help ensure a safe product and a beautiful result. So for those determined DIY homeowners, check out these tips for sanding hardwood floors.
