Hardwood floors are a timeless and valuable asset to any home. If you’re lucky, you might discover hidden hardwood treasures underneath old carpeting during a renovation project. While uncovering these floors can be exciting, they often need some extra care to restore them to their former glory. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of rejuvenating hardwood floors that have been concealed under carpet for years.
Step 1: Remove the Carpet
The first step is carefully removing the carpet and tack strip. Use a utility knife to cut the carpet into manageable sections, then roll them up and dispose of them properly. Be prepared for dust and debris, so wear a mask and eye protection. Note of caution, be careful to avoid putting deep knife marks into your hardwood floors when using a knife to cut the carpet into sections.
Step 2: Clean and Inspect
Once the carpet is gone, thoroughly clean the hardwood floors to remove any adhesive residue, dirt, or dust. This step is critical to ensure all nails and staples from the tack-strips have been successfully removed prior to sanding to avoid damage to the sanding equipment. After cleaning, inspect the floor for any visible damage, such as stains, scratches, or gaps.
Step 3: Sanding
In most cases, decades-old hardwood floors will need sanding to remove scratches, stains, and imperfections. Check out our Kimminau Refinishing Service for more information about this process. This process will include repairing and filling all gaps and holes in your floor.
Step 4: Staining (Optional)
If you want to change the color of your hardwood floors or enhance their appearance, this is the time to apply a wood stain. Be sure to choose a stain that complements your home’s décor. Check out some of our Wood Flooring Stain Color Options.
Step 5: Sealing
After the floors have been successfully sanded and stained (if desired), it’s crucial to seal the hardwood floors to protect them from future wear and tear. Check out this blog for more information on selecting your desired finishing system. In most cases, we will apply multiple coats, allowing each to dry completely before adding the next.
Step 6: Trim Installation
Once the finish is dry, you can put the finishing touches on your rejuvenated hardwood floors. Reinstall any baseboards or trim that were removed during the carpet removal process. In most cases, we will install new base shoe since your most likely didn’t have any molding when the carpet was in place.
Step 7: Final Touches
If new trim was installed, you will need to caulk and paint to finish the job right. Once the project is complete, we recommend a thorough cleaning and a 48–72-hour cure time before moving your furniture and area rugs back onto the floor.
Conclusion:
Uncovering hardwood floors hidden under carpet can be a rewarding home improvement project. While it may require some time and effort, the results are well worth it. Rejuvenating your hardwood floors can breathe new life into your home, enhancing its beauty and value for years to come.
Our Commitment To Clients
As flooring professionals, we strive to stay educated on the various flooring systems available on the market. We stay at the forefront of new advancements in the flooring industry through continued education and training courses provided by the National Wood Flooring Association. Our knowledge enables us to educate our clients on the pros and cons of various hardwood solutions. Our job is to listen to our clients and provide solutions that best fit their lifestyles. We provide easy and stress-free installations by staying informed, prioritizing clients’ needs, and setting proper expectations.
