Understanding the Stripping Process for Hardwood Floors

Many people love the look of hardwood floors but are hesitant to get them because they fear the amount of work it takes to maintain them. After a while, for example, every hardwood floor loses its shine, particularly if it is in a high-traffic area. You have to choose between sanding hardwood floor or stripping it before a new finish can be applied properly. Sanding may be more traditional, but stripping can take less time. To decide which process you want, it’s important to understand how stripping works.

1. Gathering Supplies
There are several things that technicians need in order to strip your hardwood floors. The stripping solution is essential. They also need something to apply it, such as a brush. A putty knife or some other type of scraper can assist with the removal of stubborn residue. Finally, they will need plenty of cloths for cleanup.

2. Applying Solution
Sanding hardwood floor involves a lot of manual labor. Stripping, while not labor-free, is significantly easier because the stripping agent does a lot of the hard work. Technicians apply it with a brush and allow it to soak in for approximately half an hour.

3. Removing Old Varnish
If the solution is allowed to soak for an adequate amount of time, it will loosen the old coating nicely. The varnish that is left must be scraped off with a tool. Any excess can be wiped away with a towel after the scraping is complete.

4. Cleaning the Floor
Before a new sealant can be applied, the floor must be clean. Flooring experts want to make sure all remaining dust and debris are removed so that the varnish can go on as smoothly as possible for an impressive shine.

Whether you choose stripping or sanding hardwood floor, replacing the varnish is part of the regular maintenance plan for long-lasting shine. Flooring experts can help ensure that the process is done well so that your floors look as good as new when they’re finished.