Debunking 7 Common Myths about Floor Sanding

Floors are the most vital element of the house. Thus, it ought to be looked after legitimately. One of the most luxurious and elegant floor coverings is Wood floors. Though they are easy to clean and maintain, they can become scuffed, marked and dull over the years of use. One of the best ways to restore it is floor sanding.

Floor sanding helps remove the top layer of a wooden floor by using coarse sandpaper. This is one of the most efficient and environmentally-friendly options to give your house a complete makeover.

Before you hire a contractor for deck sanding or floor sanding in your Melbourne home, it’s advisable to understand some of the common myths surrounding the process. Separating fact from fiction is the best way to avoid being scammed. The techniques used in floor sanding can vary depending on the surface and its condition. That’s why you may receive different opinions from different contractors, with each recommending a different approach.

Important Floor Sanding Myths That You Need To Consider:

Myth 1: Floor Sanding is Simply about Sanding Floors

Fact: Most of the people usually believe that floor sanding is all about sanding hardwood floors. But, that’s not the truth. Floor sanding is a huge process. Before sanding,

• A contractor will drive nails into the wood level
• Fill dents and holes with wood fillers
• Replace broken floorboards

A professional contractor will commence sanding only when the above-mentioned tasks have been completed. Once the sanding is completed, the contractor will apply a quality finish of your choice. They will ensure that your floor is properly sealed against moisture damage.

Myth 2: The Process Can Be Dustless

Fact: If a contractor tells you that their floor sanding process will be dust-free, they are probably lying. With the technological advancement, they are equipment that can significantly cut down the time, but it has its limitations. It’s not really possible to have a dust-free project. Contractors quoting “A 100% dust free and clean process” are fairly making a false claim.

Myth 3: Floors Need To Be Recoat Every Now And Then

Fact: This is another common lie that is being tossed around by the contractors. They suggest that recoating should be applied every two to three years to keep the floor looking their best. But the fact is that as long as you use high-quality finishes to coat your floor, it can last up to 10-20 years without any need for another sanding session.

Beware of the contractors that tell you to recoat your floor every now and then; they are simply trying to scam you in spending more than required.

Myth 4: The Coating has nothing to do with the Flooring’s Durability

Fact: It’s really the inverse. The type of floor finish determines the durability of the floor. While some finishes are sturdier than others, if properly applied, they can last a long time. Ensure that your contractor:

• Applies the proper number of coats
• Doesn’t combine incompatible stains and finishes
• Allows adequate drying time between coats
• Always buffs between coats

Following above-mentioned things ensures that your floor won’t need refinishing.

Myth 5: Stains Don’t Need To Comply With the Finish

Fact: This is one of the most significant mistakes most contractors make. Many contractors apply the water-based finish on top of oil-based stains on the same day and envision that it will adjust to each other.

There is no denying that great stains and finishes are required for the result to last. Thus, if you decide to stain your floor, ensure that the contractor uses compatible stains and finishes. Moreover, make sure that the contractor takes the necessary steps to ensure proper bonding between the two.

It is highly advisable to wait for a minimum of 24 hours between the applications. Combining two incompatible products will cause the finish to peel off, sooner or later. The only way to fix this issue is re-sanding the floor.

Myth 6: Floor can’t be sanded if the Nail Heads are Visible

Fact: Hardwood flooring can be sanded only a couple of times in its entire lifespan. Once its wear layer has been sanded off, you can no longer sand it, or else, you’ll risk damaging your floor. Also, many times, improper floor installation or a weak underlayment also leads the floor to start moving and some will push themselves up. Having visible nail heads indicates that there is no more sanding left on the floor.

However, just because the nail heads are visible doesn’t mean that the floor can no longer be sanded. Dishonest contractors will take advantage and try to convince you to opt for complete floor replacement. Beware of such false claims. Always ask your contractor for more proof before accepting to remove the floor.

Myth 7: There’s No Harm from Sanded Hardwood

Fact: Improperly executed sanding projects can put your house in danger, particularly from fire perils. In order to avoid such hazardous problems, make certain to follow the steps below:

• Ensure that the belt sander is properly associated with the wire box. —bullet points
• Make certain that the contractor empties all the bags from the sanding tools and moves the filled garbage bags outside the house at the end of the day
• Don’t permit your contractor to smoke on the premises
• Stop the water heater pilot

Conclusion:

Don’t allow the above-mentioned myths to prevent you from having a positive floor sanding experience. Finding the right contractor for floor sanding in Melbourne just requires a bit of research and distinguishing fact from fiction. Ultimately, it depends on your decision that guarantees the success or failure of the project.