How to Restore Old Wooden Floorboards

If you have an old wooden floor that has lost its charm over the years, fear not! We go through how to restore old wooden floorboards.

Restoring old wooden floorboards is a rewarding and cost-effective way to breathe new life into your home’s interior. Sussex Floor Restoration is here to guide you through our process of rejuvenating your floorboards and bringing back their former glory.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through each of our steps, from preparation to the finishing touches, ensuring you achieve stunning results that will impress everyone who steps foot in your home.

1. Assessing the Condition of the Floorboards

The first step in restoring old wooden floorboards is to carefully assess their condition. We look for signs of damage, such as cracks, stains, or water damage. We will identify areas that require repairs and determine the overall stability of the floor. This evaluation will help us plan the restoration process effectively.

2. Gathering the Right Tools and Materials

To ensure a successful restoration, we gather all the necessary tools and materials before we begin.

Using the right tools will make the restoration process more efficient and yield better results.

3. Repairing Damaged Floorboards

Address any damaged areas by filling cracks and holes with wood filler. After the filler dries, sand the entire floor to achieve a level surface. This step is vital to ensure the floorboards are sturdy and ready for the next phases of the restoration.

4. Sanding the Floorboards

Sanding is one of the most critical steps in the restoration process. We use a floor sander with a process that is 98% dustless!

The floor sander will remove the remaining finish, smooth out imperfections, and create an even surface.

5. Staining the Floorboards

Now that the floorboards are sanded, we apply wood stain to enhance their natural beauty. We will help you choose a stain colour that complements your interior and and apply it evenly.

6. Applying the Finish

There is more than one way to finish a hardwood floor. You can choose from a matte finish, semi-gloss, gloss, lacquered, or oiled finishes. If you would like to see the difference between the types of finishes, you can read our recent blog post here.

7. Adding Rugs and Furniture

After the restoration process is complete and the finish is dry and cured, after two weeks you can add rugs and furniture to your revitalised wooden floor. This will not only complement the new look but also protect the floorboards from potential wear and tear.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is it necessary to sand the floorboards before staining them?

Yes, sanding the floorboards is essential to remove any existing finish, smoothen imperfections, and prepare the surface for staining.

Can I restore my floorboards without professional help?

We don’t recommend restoring your wooden floorboards yourself as it is a big project that needs a professional team to carry it out. We have all the equipment and knowledge to do this for you, leaving your floors perfect!

How long does the entire restoration process take?

The timeline depends on the size of the area and the condition of the floorboards. On average, it takes one to two days.

What is the best way to maintain restored wooden floorboards?

Regularly sweep and clean the floorboards to prevent dust and dirt buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that can damage the finish.

Can I change the floorboard stain colour after restoration?

While it’s possible to change the stain colour, it would require sanding down the existing finish and applying a new stain of your choice.