Are your engineered hardwood floors starting to look a little worn out? You’re not alone. Engineered hardwood flooring is a fantastic option for those who love the look and feel of real wood but at a more affordable price point. However, over time, even the highest-quality engineered floors can show signs of wear and tear. One solution is to re-sand them. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to re-sand engineered hardwood flooring while also discussing the merits of seeking professional help for this intricate task.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the basics of engineered hardwood. Unlike solid hardwood floors, engineered hardwood is composed of multiple layers. Only the top layer is real wood, and it is much thinner than solid hardwood. Therefore, re-sanding requires extra care and expertise to avoid damaging the surface.
Why Consider Professional Flooring Installation?
The precision needed in re-sanding engineered hardwood flooring is often best left to the experts. One wrong move and you could risk ruining your floors entirely, leading to costly replacements. Professional flooring companies have the skill, experience, and specialized tools to complete the job efficiently and flawlessly. Need professional flooring installation? Visit our website and reach out to our professionals!
Tools You’ll Need
If you’re taking the DIY route, you’ll need the following tools:
- Drum or orbital sander
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Dust mask and safety goggles
- Vacuum cleaner
- Wood filler
- Polyurethane finish
- Paint brushes or foam rollers
Steps to Re-Sand Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Step 1: Prepare the Room
Remove all the furniture, and sweep or vacuum the floor to eliminate any debris or dust.
Step 2: Safety First
Wear your dust mask and safety goggles. Sanding can produce a lot of dust and tiny wood particles.
Step 3: Start Sanding The Engineered Hardwood
Begin sanding using a drum or orbital sander. Start with lower-grit sandpaper and work your way up to higher grits for a smooth finish.
Step 4: Fill Gaps
Use wood filler to fill in any cracks or gaps. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 5: Final Sanding of the Engineered Hardwood
After the wood filler has dried, go over the floor one last time with high-grit sandpaper.
Step 6: Clean Up
Vacuum the floor thoroughly to remove all sanding dust.
Step 7: Apply Finish
Apply a coat of polyurethane finish using a paintbrush or foam roller. Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second coat.
The Benefits of Going Pro
While the DIY route may seem tempting, opting for professional flooring installation offers numerous benefits. Not only can professionals perform the task more quickly, but they can also offer a guarantee on their work, giving you peace of mind.
So, whether you’re tackling your first home improvement project or you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast, consider reaching out to a professional for your engineered hardwood floor re-sanding needs. Your floors—and your wallet—will thank you.