For Wooden Floor Sanding there is a 3 step process we follow to produce the best finish for your floors. Before beginning, all furniture and objects which may obstruct our machinery must be removed and no other trade work can be conducted during this time to prevent containment.
Preparation
During the preparation stage we make sure the floor is clear of any pins, nails, staples, and any other items to get the floor ready for the sanding stage. This is to prevent damage to our machinery and provide you with the best finish. If any repairs to floor boards are required they will be completed during this step and will incur an extra charge. A nail puncher is then used to push in the exposed nails which hold the wooden floor in place and a wood filler is used to patch the holes to prevent the shiny nail heads showing.
We provide a comprehensive floor-clearing service to ensure the removal of any pre-existing materials (such as carpet, vinyl, glue, etc.) that might hinder our equipment or compromise the sanding process. Pricing is contingent upon the type of materials to be removed and the overall area coverage.
For clients seeking to address gaps in their wooden flooring, we offer a specialized filling service. The cost for this service is determined by the number and size of the gaps to be filled.
Floor Sanding
We begin with using rough grit sandpaper to level out the floor and remove any old coating and debris which is present on the wooden floorboards. We then use smooth grit sandpaper followed with a polisher to remove the grooves and marks left by the rough grit sandpaper to produce a smooth finish.
Coating
Before coating, we thoroughly vacuum/clean the floor, walls and other areas where dust might've gathered to remove the wood dust and containments from the sanding process to ensure you receive the best outcome. If you require your floors to be stained this is the next step, we offer a variety of color options to select from. Polyurethane is applied next, we always apply a minimum of three coats. Light sanding is carried out using a polisher between coats providing a flawless finish once the last coat is applied.
Wooden Floor Sanding
Polyurethane Finishes
When it comes to choosing the right finish for your wooden floor, gloss and stain/matte polyurethane finishes offer distinct characteristics to consider.
Gloss Finish
Gloss finishes, renowned for their high shine and reflective properties, bring a sense of opulence and sophistication to your flooring. Their luxurious appearance can transform a space, adding an elegant touch. Gloss finishes are also prized for their durability, with greater resistance to moisture and wear. They provide a protective layer that not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures longevity, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas and spaces that demand a polished look.
Satin/Matte Finish
Satin/Matte polyurethane finishes offer an entirely different appeal. These finishes provide a subdued, natural appearance with a lower sheen level that minimizes glare and reflects less light. This matte quality imparts a warm and cozy ambiance to your space, making it an ideal choice for areas where you want to create a rustic or comfortable atmosphere. While they may not be as resilient to wear and tear as gloss finishes, stain/matte polyurethane excels in concealing minor imperfections, making them an excellent option for spaces where a more relaxed and forgiving aesthetic is desired. The choice between gloss and stain/matte polyurethane ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the ambiance you want to achieve in your home or space.
Staining
Staining wooden floors is a transformative process that involves applying a colored solution to enhance the appearance of the wood. This technique allows homeowners and designers to personalize their flooring to match their interior decor, achieve a desired aesthetic, or even restore old and worn wooden surfaces. Stains come in a variety of hues, from rich and warm tones to cooler, contemporary shades, offering endless possibilities for customizing the look of your floors. Beyond its aesthetic benefits, staining also serves a practical purpose by helping to protect the wood from damage, such as moisture and UV rays. Whether you're aiming for a rustic, vintage charm or a sleek, modern appeal, staining wooden floors is a versatile and creative way to elevate the beauty and durability of your living spaces.
For more information & the color choices we offer click here.
Polyurethane Types
Oil Based Polyurethane
Oil-based polyurethane is a widely used finish for wooden flooring due to its durability and classic warm glow. As it dries, oil-based polyurethane releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can produce a strong odor, making proper ventilation imperative during application. This type of polyurethane also takes longer to dry than its water-based counterpart, often requiring 24 hours or more between coats. Over time, an oil-based finish tends to amber, giving the wood a slightly yellowish tint which can enhance the natural beauty and depth of the wood grain.
Water Based Polyurethane
Water-based polyurethane provides a clear finish and is known for its rapid drying time and reduced odor compared to oil-based variants. Composed mainly of water and acrylic or polyurethane resins, it is a more environmentally friendly choice due to lower VOC content. As it dries faster, multiple coats can often be applied in a single day. Water-based polyurethane retains its clarity over time, meaning it won’t impart a yellowish hue to the wood. This makes it particularly suitable for woods with lighter tones or when a crystal-clear finish is desired. Additionally, water-based finishes are usually less susceptible to moisture and offer better UV protection, reducing the risk of the wood becoming discolored from sunlight.
Difference for Wooden Flooring
When deciding between oil-based and water-based polyurethane for wooden flooring, consider factors such as desired appearance, drying time, VOC content, and durability. Oil-based polyurethane gives a rich, warm finish, enhancing the wood’s natural colors, but takes longer to dry and emits a strong odor. Over time, it may yellow, which can be either an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on aesthetic preferences. Water-based polyurethane, on the other hand, dries faster, has less odor, and maintains its clear finish over the years. However, it might require more coats and might not give the same depth of finish as oil-based polyurethane. The choice often boils down to personal preference, environmental considerations, and the specific requirements of the flooring project.