Refinishing Wood Surfaces with Fred

With spring right around the corner, there is no time like the present to give your wood surfaces a much needed makeover. Fred has some foolproof (and cost-efficient) ideas to make your surfaces look brand new! These tips work for floorboards as well as wood furniture pieces that need a little TLC.

Preparing the Wood

When refinishing any wood floor, the first step is always the most important. Removing old finish can be a messy and tiresome task but is crucial to ensure your new stain and finish look as luscious as possible. You can remove old paint or vanish by either sanding the surface with grit paper or using liquid chemical strippers. Always be very cautious when using chemicals and be sure to wear rubber gloves and eye protection!

The last step in preparing the wood is to apply a sanding sealer, which will help your wood stain much more evenly.

Staining the Surface

Once you have stripped off all of the old finish and applied to sealer, it is time to choose a brand new stain. There are a variety of stains and dyes to choose from, including oil-based, water-based, and gel stains.

Fred’s suggestion is to use a one-step stain/finish, which applies the color and finish at the same time, thus eliminating several steps (and hours of work!)

Finishing Touches

Now that your wood is beautifully stained, it is time to put a protective top coat on. There are four different coats to choose from, that all provide different results.

Penetrating oil finishes are incredibly easy to apply and look beautiful with a softer, more natural appearance. Polyurethane is much more durable than penetration oil but creates a harder look. Water-based polyurethanes are quite easy to use and have the added bonus of being environmentally friendly. Lastly, a lacquer finish requires a little more skill and time but gives the most durable and luscious finish.

Refinishing wood is an easy DIY project and these full-proof tips from Fred will make any surface look brand new. This is the perfect way to give your house a spring makeover without spending heaps of money or time!