Best Techniques for Sanding and Refinishing Parquet Floors
Parquet floors are a classic choice for any home, with their beautiful patterns and timeless look. Over time they can lose their shine due to scratches, general wear and old finish. But sanding and refinishing parquet floors can bring them back to life. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sand and refurbish parquet floors so your floors get their glamour and durability back. For professional help, visit Harpers Restorations.
Preparation: Get the Right Tools
Before you start sanding, make sure you have all the right tools and materials. Having the right sanding equipment will give you a smoother finish and prevent damage to your parquet flooring. You’ll need:
- Drum sander
- Orbital sander or random orbital sanders
- Edge sander
- Coarse grit sandpaper (24-36 grit)
- Medium grit sandpaper (60-80 grit)
- Fine grit sandpaper (100-120 grit)
- Wood filler for gaps or damaged tiles
- Dust mask and safety goggles
- Vacuum cleaner and damp cloth for cleaning
- Furniture pads to protect your newly refinished floor
- Sealing and staining products
Step by Step Guide: Sanding Parquet Floors
1. Remove Old Finish and Loose Tiles
Before you start sanding the parquet floor, make sure the surface is clear of debris and any loose or damaged tiles are secured or replaced. If there are gaps or holes, use wood filler to smooth the surface and prevent dust from settling into the cracks. This will give you a better result during the sanding process.
2. Start with Coarse Grit Sandpaper
When sanding parquet floors, you need to start with coarse grit sandpaper (24-36 grit) to remove the old finish and any imperfections like scratches or stains. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your sanding equipment as different sanders (drum sander or orbital sander) may require different techniques.
For a better result, keep the sander moving all the time to avoid uneven spots or swirl marks on the parquet flooring. Sand the whole floor in different directions following the grain of the wood, especially in rooms with complex patterns.
3. Use Medium Grit Sandpaper for a Smoother Finish
After the first sanding, switch to medium grit sandpaper (60-80 grit) to smooth the surface further and remove any remaining rough spots on the parquet tiles. This part of the process will refine the wood grain and make the surface even and ready for the final sanding stage.
When sanding around the edges or in tight spaces, an edge sander or smaller random orbital sanders will help you get to those areas. Make sure you sand the whole room consistently for a uniform look on the floor.
4. Final Sanding with Fine Grit Sandpaper
For the final sanding, use fine grit sandpaper (100-120 grit) to give the parquet floor a smooth finish. This will remove any minor scratches or roughness left by the previous sanding. Move the sander in the same direction as the wood grain to avoid leaving marks. You want to prepare the wooden floors for staining or sealing while keeping it looking perfect.
5. Clean the Room and Remove Dust
Once you’ve finished the final sanding, make sure to remove all the dust from the room to avoid imperfections during the sealing and staining process. Use a vacuum to remove most of the dust then follow up with a damp cloth to wipe the whole floor. Be thorough—dust particles can ruin the smoothness of your refinished parquet floors if left behind.
Refinishing: Staining and Sealing the Floor
Now that the sanding is done, it’s time to apply a stain or sealant to your parquet floor.
1. Stain or Sealer
You can either leave the parquet flooring natural or apply a stain to bring out the colour. Staining reveals the wood grain and adds depth to the floor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the stain and make sure to cover the whole floor evenly.
Once the stain is dry, apply a wood sealer to protect the parquet from future wear. The sealer will give the floor a glossy and durable finish.
2. Apply the Sealer or Stain
Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the sealer or stain in thin coats. Work in small sections and make sure each coat is dry before applying the next one. Don’t sand between coats unless specified by the product’s instructions. This will give the wood floor the smooth finish you want.
3. Let the Floor Dry Completely
After applying the sealer or stain, let the parquet floor dry completely before putting back the furniture. This may take several days depending on the finish and the humidity of the room. Make sure the room is well-ventilated during this period to speed up drying and reduce odours.
Tips for Sanding Parquet Floors
- Use the Right Grit Sandpaper: Using the right grit sandpaper for each stage is crucial. Start with coarse grit for the initial sanding then move to medium and fine grit sandpaper for a smoother finish.
- Protect Yourself: Sanding wooden floors produces a lot of dust which can be harmful to breathe in. Always wear a dust mask and safety goggles during sanding.
- Don’t Sand Too Much: Parquet is thinner than traditional hardwood floors so be careful not to sand too much especially around the edges and intricate parts of the design.
- Check for Damaged Tiles: Before sanding, make sure any damaged tiles or areas are filled with wood filler to avoid uneven results.
- Follow the Wood Grain: Sanding in the same direction as the wood grain will prevent swirl marks and give a more professional finish.
Summary: Revive Your Parquet Flooring
By following these steps for sanding and refinishing parquet floors you can bring back the timeless beauty and durability of your floor. Sanding parquet flooring is a process but the result is worth it. With the right preparation, tools and patience you can revive your parquet floor and turn your space into a classic beauty.
