Hardwood floors are considered a practical option for both residential and commercial flooring needs. As time goes by, however, the protective layer or finish that was once present may noticeably wear away, especially in areas of heavy traffic. This visible wear and tear are the most popular reason that a homeowner may opt for Floor Refinishing in Manhattan. Additionally, by applying a new finish, the surface is easier to maintain, even more so than when it was first installed.
Another reason that a homeowner may be interested in refinishing their hardwood flooring is to refresh the finish that may have been dulled from years under carpet or rugs. The fact is that, when a wood floor is first installed, the surface is fresh, new, and free of blemishes. As time wears on, however, the surface will become dull and worn due to years of traffic and use.
The first step in Floor Refinishing in Manhattan is to remove the old, worn finish. In most cases, a professional should be hired to do this. They have the proper equipment and know-how to do this job efficiently. Unless a homeowner has done this type of job before, it is advised to have a professional handle it.
There is a simple test that can be done easily determine if the hardwood flooring’s finish needs to be redone or if the surface is simply dirty.
Step 1: Find an area of heavy wear.
Step 2: Place one tablespoon of water onto the area.
Step 3: Evaluate the results.
If the results are beads of water, it means that the floor is still sealed properly. This will simply require an extensive cleaning and efforts to remove any existing stains. If the water appears to begin seeping in the floor and only darkens the area slightly, the finish on the floor is worn partially.
When a homeowner decides to refinish their hardwood floor, there are many different shades of stain to choose from. Keep in mind that the stain selected may appear a bit different on a newly-installed floor and a refinished one. However, with proper sanding, a homeowner can ensure that the floor will accept the stain more willingly. Learn more about this process by contacting the professionals at New York Wood Flooring.
