How to Refinish Parquet Wood Floor

Many homeowners enjoy the look and relative low maintenance of a beautiful parquet floor. One thing they do not look forward to is the process of refinishing these floors. With adequate tools, chemicals and patience the task can be accomplished within a day or two. The lustrous result is well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

• Sander or chemical stripper Stain Wood bleach Clean white rags Vinegar Paint brushes Polyurethane finish

Instructions

1. Sand the finish from your flooring. Use a small orbital sander for the best sanding results. You want to avoid large sanders as they will not allow you to go with the varying angle of grain in each block of your parquet floors. A hand held model will allow you the control you need. If possible use a sander that comes with attached bags to catch the dust.

2. Use a coarse sand paper to begin, such as a 20-grit. Then step down progressively to 36, 50, 80 and finally 100-grit paper. When you have completed this sanding the floor should "shine." This takes patience and time but results in the best refinishing.

3. Chemically strip your flooring if you really want to avoid sanding. Buy a high-grade chemical product and be sure to use a respirator while applying. Keep the windows open. Always follow the product's written guidelines. Should scratches be observed following the stripping you may want to consider sanding them off.

4. Bleach out any stains on the flooring following sanding or chemical stripping. Be sure to use flooring bleach. Use a clean rag to apply the bleach with a circular rubbing motion. Work outward from the middle of the stain and extend out a little beyond it with less and less bleach. Use a vinegar-dampened clean cloth to go over the area following the bleach.

5. Apply stain to the flooring at this point if desired. Choose a product specifically created for staining parquet floors and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow adequate drying time.

6. Finish your floor by applying polyurethane finish. Using three coats of self-sealing polyurethane is advised to give a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing result. Load your brush by dipping about an inch into the product. Paint the finish on with long even strokes. Allow for drying before the final coat. Open your widows and use a respirator for safety.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use a fan for ventilation during refinishing and it will blow dust and possibly ruin the finish.