Redoing painted wood floors, especially if you're looking for a relatively quick refresh, involves a series of preparation steps followed by repainting. The key is proper surface preparation to ensure the new paint adheres well and lasts.
The Quick Fix Approach for Repainting
According to expert advice for a fairly quick fix, the process is straightforward and focuses on preparing the existing painted surface rather than stripping it back to bare wood.
Here are the essential steps:
Step 1: Preparation is Key
Thorough preparation is crucial for any paint job, especially on floors which see significant wear.
- Clean Thoroughly: Begin by completely clearing the room and giving the floor a thorough clean. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose debris, then wash the floor with an appropriate cleaner to remove dirt, grime, and any oily residue. Ensure the floor is completely dry before moving on.
- Scrape Loose Paint: Inspect the floor for any areas where the paint is peeling, bubbling, or damaged. Scrape loose paint away using a paint scraper or putty knife. Aim to remove all paint that isn't firmly bonded to the wood.
- Sand: Lightly sand the entire floor surface. This step helps to smooth out imperfections left by scraping and, more importantly, creates a 'key' for the new paint to adhere to. You can use sandpaper (medium grit, around 100-120) or an orbital sander for larger areas. Focus on feathering the edges where you scraped away loose paint so there aren't noticeable ridges.
- Clean Again: After sanding, there will be a lot of dust. Clean again thoroughly. Vacuuming is essential to remove sanding dust, followed by wiping the floor down with a slightly damp cloth to pick up any remaining particles. The floor must be perfectly clean and dust-free before painting.
Step 2: Apply Quality Floor Paint
With the floor prepped, it's time for the new coat of paint.
- Choose the Right Paint: It's vital to use a quality floor paint designed to withstand foot traffic and abrasion. Visit a local paint store (eg SW) and explain that you are painting a previously painted wood floor. They can recommend the best type of paint or coating for your specific needs, such as durable porch and floor enamel or a similar product.
- Paint Application: Apply the paint according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a high-quality roller or brush designed for floor paint. Apply thin, even coats rather than one thick one. You will likely need two coats for good coverage and durability. Allow the recommended drying time between coats and before walking on or placing furniture back on the floor.
Essential Tools
Having the right tools makes the job easier and helps achieve a better finish.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Broom/Vacuum | Initial dirt and debris removal |
| Floor Cleaner | Washing the floor |
| Paint Scraper | Removing peeling or loose paint |
| Sandpaper/Sander | Smoothing and creating paint adhesion |
| Rags/Cloths | Post-sanding dust removal |
| Quality Paint Brushes/Rollers | Applying new floor paint |
| Paint Tray/Bucket | Holding paint |
| Quality Floor Paint | The durable finishing coat |
By following these steps, particularly the thorough preparation phase emphasized for a quick refresh, you can effectively redo your painted wood floors, giving them a new lease on life.
