How do I refinish my hardwood floors?

• Thoroughly clean the floors you plan on refinishing. Sweep them first, then mop them.

• Remove any nail or tacks left behind from carpet removal.

• Open the windows of the rooms you’re refinishing. This will help with the dust that’s generated during the process.

• Using a floor sander (available for rent at many Westlake locations) and 20-grit sandpaper, start in a corner of the room.

• Slowly sand the floor while following the grain of the wood. Make sure that you’re evenly sanding the surface.

• Sand the edges of the floor with a palm sander or edger.

• Sweep and/or vacuum the room(s).

• Repeat the sanding process using 60-grit sandpaper.

• Sweep and/or vacuum the room(s). If necessary, mop the room(s) with mineral spirits. DO NOT USE WATER ON THE RAW FLOOR.

• If you’re staining your floor, stain first and allow plenty of time for the stain to dry before you seal the floor.

• Seal your floor using either a roller and a thick nap roller cover or push broom with a wool push broom cover.

• Start at the farthest corner from the door where you’ll exit. Apply an even coat of polyurethane over the floor while working your way towards the door.

• Allow at least 6 hours (preferably 12 hours) for the floor to dry before you apply another coat.

• Repeat the process for at least 3 more coats.

Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of this information. Neither Westlake nor any contributor can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.