Refinishing engineered hardwood floors is a bit different from refinishing solid hardwood floors, as engineered hardwood has a thinner layer of real wood on top. Here are the general steps to refinish engineered hardwood floors:
Assess the condition: Determine if your engineered hardwood floors are suitable for refinishing. Engineered hardwood typically has a wear layer that ranges from 0.6mm to 6mm in thickness. The thickness of the wear layer will determine how many times the floor can be refinished. If the wear layer is too thin or has already been refinished multiple times, it may not be suitable for refinishing.
Prepare the area: Clear the room of furniture, rugs, and any other items. Remove baseboards and trim, if necessary. Cover any vents or openings to prevent dust from spreading to other areas of your home.
Clean the floors: Thoroughly clean the floors to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Use a vacuum cleaner or a broom followed by a mop with a gentle hardwood floor cleaner. Make sure the floors are completely dry before proceeding.
Sanding: Use a floor sander with a fine-grit sandpaper to sand the surface of the engineered hardwood. Be cautious not to sand too aggressively, as you don't want to sand through the wear layer. Lightly sanding the surface will remove any imperfections, scratches, or old finish. Use a sanding screen or pad for areas that cannot be reached with the floor sander.
Clean the dust: Thoroughly clean the floors again to remove all the sanding dust. Use a vacuum cleaner and a tack cloth to ensure the surface is completely clean.
Apply the finish: Choose a high-quality, water-based polyurethane finish for engineered hardwood floors. Apply the finish using a brush, roller, or sprayer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing sufficient drying time between each coat. Ensure proper ventilation during the application and drying process.
Finishing touches: Once the final coat of finish is dry, you can reinstall baseboards and trim. Be cautious while moving furniture back into the room to avoid scratching the newly finished floors.
It's important to note that not all engineered hardwood floors can be refinished, especially those with very thin wear layers. If you are unsure about the suitability of your floors for refinishing or if you want to ensure a professional and flawless job, it's advisable to consult with a flooring specialist or professional contractor experienced in refinishing engineered hardwood floors.