What To Do With Old Wood Floors? (3 Options Now!)
I’ve spent years knee-deep in sawdust and polyurethane, and I’ve seen it all when it comes to wood floors.
And let me tell you, those old planks hold a special place in my heart.
They’re not just floors; they’re the foundation of countless memories, the silent witnesses to family stories.
But let’s face it, old wood floors can sometimes look… well, old.
Scratches, dents, and faded finishes can really drag down the overall look of your home.
And that’s where I come in!
I’m here to guide you through the options for breathing new life into those timeworn treasures.
Why Your Floors Matter (More Than You Think!)
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why your floors are such a big deal.
Think of your floors as the canvas upon which your home’s story is painted.
They set the tone, influence the style, and even impact your home’s resale value.
According to the National Association of Realtors, homes with hardwood floors tend to sell for around 2.5% more than those without.
That’s a pretty significant bump!
But it’s not just about the money.
Floors also evoke emotions.
A gleaming, well-maintained wood floor can create a feeling of warmth, elegance, and timelessness.
On the other hand, a damaged or outdated floor can make a home feel tired and neglected.
So, what’s a homeowner to do when faced with old, worn-out wood floors?
Fear not! I’ve got you covered with three fantastic options:
- Refinishing
- Painting
- Covering
Let’s explore each one in detail, shall we?
Option 1: Refinishing Old Wood Floors – Bringing Back the Shine
What’s Refinishing All About?
Refinishing is like giving your wood floors a complete makeover.
It involves sanding away the old finish, smoothing out imperfections, staining (if desired), and applying a fresh protective coating.
Think of it as a spa day for your floors!
The benefits of refinishing are numerous:
- Restores the original beauty: Refinishing brings out the natural grain and character of the wood.
- Increases home value: As mentioned earlier, hardwood floors are a major selling point.
- Extends the lifespan of your floors: By protecting the wood from moisture and wear, refinishing can add years to its life.
- Customizable look: You can choose a new stain color to completely transform the look of your room.
The Refinishing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s get down to business.
Here’s a breakdown of the refinishing process:
- Preparation:
- Clear the room completely.
- Cover doorways and vents to contain dust.
- Wear a respirator mask and eye protection.
- Sanding:
- Rent a drum sander and an edger (for edges and corners).
- Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper (36-grit) to remove the old finish.
- Gradually move to finer grits (60-grit, then 80-grit) to smooth the surface.
- Use the edger to sand along the edges of the room.
- Cleaning:
- Thoroughly vacuum the entire floor to remove all dust.
- Use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining particles.
- Staining (Optional):
- Apply stain evenly with a brush or rag, following the grain of the wood.
- Wipe off excess stain after a few minutes.
- Allow the stain to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Sealing:
- Apply several coats of polyurethane or another floor finish, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Lightly sand between coats for a smoother finish.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Drum sander
- Edger sander
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Respirator mask
- Eye protection
- Vacuum
- Tack cloths
- Stain (optional)
- Polyurethane or floor finish
- Brushes or rollers
- Paint trays
DIY vs. Professional:
Refinishing is a labor-intensive process, and it requires some skill and experience to do it right.
If you’re a seasoned DIYer with plenty of patience, you might be able to tackle it yourself.
However, if you’re not comfortable with power tools or you’re concerned about making mistakes, I highly recommend hiring a professional.
A professional flooring contractor will have the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a flawless finish.
Cost Analysis: Is Refinishing Worth It?
Let’s talk money.
The cost of refinishing wood floors can vary depending on the size of the room, the type of wood, and whether you DIY or hire a professional.
Here’s a rough estimate:
- DIY: \$3 – \$5 per square foot (materials and rental equipment)
- Professional: \$5 – \$10 per square foot (labor and materials)
So, for a 200-square-foot room, you could expect to pay anywhere from \$600 to \$2,000.
Now, let’s consider the return on investment (ROI).
As I mentioned earlier, refinished hardwood floors can increase your home’s resale value by a significant amount.
According to a study by Remodeling Magazine, the ROI on refinishing hardwood floors is around 70-80%.
That means that for every dollar you spend on refinishing, you can expect to get back 70 to 80 cents when you sell your home.
Case Studies: Real-Life Success Stories
I’ve seen firsthand how refinishing can transform a home.
I once worked on a house that had original hardwood floors hidden under layers of carpet.
The homeowners were considering replacing the floors altogether, but I convinced them to give refinishing a try.
After a week of sanding, staining, and sealing, the floors looked absolutely stunning.
The homeowners were thrilled, and they ended up selling their house for \$20,000 more than they had expected.
Here’s another example: A client of mine, Sarah, had old oak floors that were scratched and faded.
She hired me to refinish them, and she chose a darker stain to give her living room a more modern look.
Sarah told me that she received numerous compliments on her floors after the refinishing was complete.
She said that it made her home feel more inviting and luxurious.
Option 2: Painting Old Wood Floors – A Bold and Creative Choice
Why Paint Your Floors?
Painting wood floors is a fantastic way to add personality and style to your home.
It’s also a more budget-friendly option than refinishing, especially if you’re willing to do the work yourself.
Painting can completely transform the look of a room, and it’s a great way to cover up imperfections in old floors.
Types of Paint and Techniques
There are several types of paint that are suitable for wood floors:
- Chalk paint: Creates a matte, vintage look.
- Latex paint: Durable and easy to clean.
- Oil-based paint: Provides a tough, long-lasting finish.
As for techniques, the possibilities are endless:
- Solid color: A classic and versatile choice.
- Stenciling: Add intricate designs and patterns.
- Color blocking: Create bold geometric shapes.
- Stripes: A fun and playful option.
Preparation and Application: Getting It Right
Just like with refinishing, preparation is key when painting wood floors.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Clean the floors thoroughly: Remove all dirt, dust, and grime.
- Sand the floors lightly: This will help the paint adhere better.
- Prime the floors: Use a high-quality primer designed for wood floors.
- Apply the paint: Use a brush or roller to apply two or three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Seal the floors: Apply a clear sealant to protect the paint from wear and tear.
Drying Times and Maintenance:
Drying times will vary depending on the type of paint you use.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
To maintain your painted floors, sweep or vacuum regularly and clean up spills immediately.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Impact on Resale Value: A Word of Caution
Painted floors can be a bit of a gamble when it comes to resale value.
Some buyers love them, while others hate them.
If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, it’s important to choose a paint color and style that are relatively neutral and appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Avoid overly bold or trendy colors that might turn off potential buyers.
Option 3: Covering Old Wood Floors – Out of Sight, Out of Mind?
Covering Options: A Variety of Choices
If you’re not a fan of refinishing or painting, you can always cover your old wood floors with something else.
Here are some popular options:
- Carpet: Adds warmth and comfort.
- Laminate: A budget-friendly alternative to hardwood.
- Vinyl: Durable and water-resistant.
- Tile: A classic and elegant choice.
Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Carpet is soft and cozy, but it can be difficult to clean and maintain.
Laminate is affordable and easy to install, but it doesn’t have the same warmth and character as real wood.
Vinyl is waterproof and stain-resistant, but it can look a bit artificial.
Tile is durable and stylish, but it can be cold and hard underfoot.
Choosing the Right Material: Making the Best Decision
When choosing a covering material, consider your lifestyle, budget, and home style.
If you have kids or pets, you’ll want something that’s durable and easy to clean.
If you’re on a tight budget, laminate or vinyl might be your best bet.
If you’re going for a more luxurious look, tile or high-end carpet could be a good choice.
Installation Considerations: DIY or Hire a Pro?
The installation process will vary depending on the type of covering you choose.
Carpet and laminate can often be installed DIY, but tile and some types of vinyl require professional installation.
If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, I recommend hiring a professional flooring contractor.
They’ll have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure a flawless installation.
Future Resale Implications: What Buyers Want
Covering your old wood floors can have a mixed impact on resale value.
Some buyers prefer hardwood floors, while others are perfectly happy with carpet, laminate, or vinyl.
If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, it’s important to consider what buyers in your area are looking for.
Talk to a real estate agent to get their opinion on the best flooring options for your home.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You
So, there you have it: three options for dealing with old wood floors.
- Refinishing: Restores the original beauty and increases home value.
- Painting: Adds personality and style (but can be risky for resale).
- Covering: A versatile option with a variety of choices.
The best option for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and future plans for your home.
Weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making a decision.
And remember, old wood floors can be a valuable asset to your home.
With a little bit of TLC, they can enhance both the beauty and value of your property.
Good luck, and happy flooring!
