If you’ve ever wondered how professionals finish wood, this is your chance to ‘listen in’ to the advice we give to customers on products and techniques across a variety of wood related topics…
One question that we get asked regularly concerns how to revive a varnished softwood floor that isn’t worn out, but has a few minor scratches. It is especially popular these days for customers to ask for the wood to be kept as light as possible with a matt (low sheen) finish.
So with this in mind, this is what to do.
If a floor is badly worn or has developed a greyish tone, the floor will usually require sanding and resealing rather than simple maintenance.
A badly worn varnished pine floor in need of sanding and resealing
Here’s what to do:
Most varnishes applied over the last 15 years or so are generally water based, but it is always wise to carry out a test to make sure that any new product is compatible. If the existing varnish is water based and where the lowest amount of colour enhancement (darkening) is required as here, we always recommend our Trade Acrylic Varnish which is self-levelling (leaves no brush marks), and is very easy to use. This is available in a matt or satin finish, but the matt sheen level would be used on this occasion. This is not a standard or ordinary acrylic varnish as these would not offer the protection required for a floor.
The wood requires cleaning with Finney’s Floor Cleaning Detergent first and then lightly sanding to key the surface using 400 grit Wet ‘n’ Dry abrasive paper (a type of silicon carbide paper) – used dry. Once the floor has been prepared, stir the Trade Acrylic Varnish thoroughly and apply a thin coat using a Trade Synthetic Brush along the grain. When dry (about 1 – 2 hours), lightly cut the surface back with the 400 grit wet ‘n’ dry paper – used dry – and remove any dust with a Tack Cloth. Then apply a second thin coat.
It’s as simple as that – you can use the floor after a few hours but bear in mind that full cure takes a short while so don’t put any rugs down for 7 days.
This method gives a very simple repair that will last and yet is so easy to achieve.
Nice and easy!
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If you have any queries about any technique or product mentioned in one of our blogs, please email info@finneyswoodfinishes.co.uk or telephone 01246 261664.
Disclaimer: Information is given in good faith and any advice refers only to the specific products mentioned.