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Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable choice for any home, but over time, they can become scratched, dull, or damaged. Refinishing your hardwood floors is a great way to restore their original beauty and protect them for years to come. At Carpet City Flooring in Fairfax, VA, we are experts in hardwood floor refinishing, and we’re here to guide you through the proper method to achieve a stunning finish.

1. Preparation: Start by clearing the room of all furniture and floor coverings. Make sure the room is well-ventilated by opening windows and doors. Cover any vents and seal doorways with plastic sheeting to prevent dust from spreading throughout your home.
2. Sanding: The first step in refinishing your hardwood floors is sanding. This removes the old finish, smooths out scratches, and prepares the wood for a new coat of finish. Use a drum sander for the main area of the floor and an edge sander for the edges and corners. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper (around 36-40 grit) and progress to finer grits (up to 100-120 grit) to achieve a smooth surface. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.
3. Cleaning: After sanding, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the floor to remove all dust and debris. Vacuum the floor and use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining particles. This ensures a clean surface for the new finish to adhere to.
4. Staining (Optional): If you wish to change the color of your hardwood floors, apply a wood stain after sanding. Use a brush or rag to apply the stain evenly, working in small sections and wiping off excess stain as you go. Allow the stain to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Finishing: Apply a polyurethane finish to protect your floors and give them a beautiful shine. Use a high-quality brush or a lambswool applicator to apply a thin, even coat. Allow the first coat to dry, then lightly sand the floor with a fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) to remove any bubbles or imperfections. Clean the floor again with a tack cloth, then apply a second coat of finish. For best results, apply a third coat for maximum durability.
6. Drying and Curing: Allow the final coat of finish to dry thoroughly before walking on the floor. The curing process can take several days, during which the finish hardens and becomes more durable. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying and curing times.

Refinishing hardwood floors is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance the appearance and longevity of your floors. At Carpet City Flooring in Fairfax, VA, we have the expertise and materials you need to achieve professional-quality results. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to leave it to the professionals, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Visit us today for all your hardwood flooring needs.