Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash
As homeowners, we can get fairly strategic about hiding the flaws in our home. We might move the sofa over a water stain on the hardwood or put a rug over a crack, tear or discoloration. While you'd never try to hide this stuff from potential homebuyers, it does keep it out of view when guests come over. And at least for a moment you too forget the damage is there.
But covering floor damage isn't always your best option. And knowing when to cover and when you resurface is vital to your home's health and happiness.
When Not to Cover
Don't cover if:
In these scenarios, it's time to refinish the floor. Here's how it's done.
How to Refinish a Hardwood Floor
First, check to make sure your floor is refinishable. A faux wood floor can be convincing. If it's laminate, then you'll need to replace it. But the good news is that you may only have to replace sections if they still make the product.
You can refinish:
Remove everything in the room, including items on the wall. Dust will get everywhere. It's easier to clean up if you have fewer surfaces to dust afterward.
Next, rent an electric floor sander. They come in coarse, medium and fine. You need all three to do the job, starting with coarse then moving back to fine. Always put on your safety goggles when using a hand or electric sander.
If you have any nicks to fill, use wood putty. Slather it over the area. Let it dry. Then sand with a hand sander using fine sandpaper.
Remove the dust you produced while sanding with a dust filtered shop vacuum. But you'll find that doesn't get all of it. A wax-impregnated cheese cloth can pick up what remains.
Now, apply at least two coats of your polyurethane, varnish or penetrating sealer. Let that final coat dry at least 24 hours before moving furniture back in.
For more helpful home revitalization tips, follow our blog.
About the Author
Pablo Torres
Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.
He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.
He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.
Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.
Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.
As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.
