Finishing a Floor of Hardwood

Finshing a hardwood floor gives it a richer look and protects the wood.

Hardwood floors are a great feature in any home. Hardwood floors should be finished to create a richer look to the wood and to seal and protect the wood. Finish hardwood floors by sanding the hardwood floor and applying a coat of stain and sealer.

Things You'll Need

• 60 grit sandpaper
• 80 grit sandpaper
• 100 grit sandpaper
• Vacuum
• Stain
• Vibrating sander
• Polyurethane
• Foam applicator
• Lamb's wool applicator

Instructions

1. Clean the hardwood floor to be finished by vacuuming up any dirt and dust.

2. Sand the hardwood floor with a vibrating sander and 60 grit sandpaper then vacuum the floor clean of sawdust. Sand the hardwood floor again with 80 grit sandpaper and a final time with 100 grit sandpaper. Vacuum the floor clean after each sanding.

3. Apply a coat of stain to an area of the hardwood floor with a foam applicator. Let the stain soak into the surface of the wood and wipe off any remaining stain with a clean cloth. Stain the entire hardwood floor one area at a time and allow the stain to dry.

4. Apply a coat of polyurethane onto the hardwood floor with a lamb's wool applicator. This will seal the wood and protect it. Let the coat of polyurethane dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Sand with the grain of the wood.

• Work in a ventilated space.

• Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself.

References

• Home Depot: Refinishing Hardwood Floors