Tips for sealing hardwood floors
So you've installed a hardwood floor and it looks just as great as you imagined it would. But how do you keep it looking that way. Hardwood floors come with some work to maintain, one of which is making sure that you seal it before it goes through any wear and tear. Here are some tips for sealing hardwood floors and some other helpful tips to keep in mind when it comes to hardwood flooring.
Pre-finished Hardwood floors
- Typically if you have installed a pre-finished hardwood floor it will uses a process called acrylic impregnation. The companies that sell and make these pre-finished floors recommend that you not use any additional sealants or waxes to finish the wood flooring. The wax and oils will contaminate the wood and give you more problems than you imagined. If you really can't stand the thought of walking on it without coating it then mare sure you prepare it well before doing so. You can do this by either sanding or deglossing it and that way the finish will stick. It's also good to remember that if you decide to re-finish a pre-finished floor that you are basically throwing out your manufacturer warranty.
Unfinished Hardwood floors
When it comes to unfinished hardwood flooring it is an entirely different story. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always prepare the floor prior to placing any type of finishing product on it. You can do this by sanding the wood so smooth the surface and open the pores up so that the finish will be absorbed better into the wood. Sanding is tricky though and must be done carefully as hardwood floors can be ruined from scratching, and warping.
- After you have sanded the floor you will need to vacuum and sweep the area to get rid of extra dust and debris.
- Then you will remove any remaining dust or oil with a wet rag that has been soaked in special cleaners.
Types of sealants
There are two types of sealers that can be used on hardwood floors; water based and solvent based.
- Water based sealants are being used more and more these days because they are known to be somewhat healthier for the environment. Some of the solvents used in sealants are highly toxic and face disposal issues as well as other healthy concerns if used improperly. Water based solvents are also less flammable and some are even completely inflammable. They are however more expensive than solvent based sealants.
- Solvent based sealants are highly flammable and have a strong odor so they aren't as widely used today. They are however quite durable and tough so once it's on you don't have to worry about re-applying.
Application Tips
- If sealing over an old coating make sure it is thoroughly cleaned.
- When treating untreated wood make sure the floor is in fairly good shape and can actually be repaired.
- Make sure the temperature is not too cold or too hot as sealants and coatings will apply differently when the temperature is not right.
- Use proper ventilation if necessary.
Hardwood floors can be a great addition to any home and make it look beautiful if they are properly cared for. Keep these tips for sealing hardwood floors in mind as you consider how to best care for your floor and keep it looking new.
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