Refinished Bamboo Floors Before And After

Bamboo flooring is a popular choice for homeowners because it is durable, sustainable, and easy to clean. However, like any other type of flooring, bamboo flooring can eventually become scratched, dented, or faded. If your bamboo floors are starting to look worse for wear, you may be wondering if it's time to refinish them.

Refinishing bamboo floors is a great way to restore their original beauty and extend their lifespan. The process involves sanding down the old finish and applying a new one. This can be done by a professional or a do-it-yourselfer.

If you're thinking about refinishing your bamboo floors, here's what you need to know.

Before You Begin

Before you start refinishing your bamboo floors, there are a few things you need to do.

Clean the floors. Sweep or vacuum the floors to remove any dirt or debris.
Inspect the floors. Look for any scratches, dents, or other damage. If the damage is severe, you may need to hire a professional to repair it before you refinish the floors.
Gather your supplies. You'll need a sander, sandpaper, a tack cloth, a vacuum cleaner, and a new finish.

Sanding the Floors

The first step in refinishing bamboo floors is to sand them down. This will remove the old finish and smooth out any rough spots.

To sand the floors, you'll need to use a sander. There are two types of sanders that you can use: a drum sander or a belt sander.

Drum sanders are the most powerful type of sander. They can remove a lot of material quickly, but they can also be difficult to control. If you're not experienced in using a drum sander, it's best to hire a professional.
Belt sanders are less powerful than drum sanders, but they are also easier to control. They are a good choice for DIYers who are refinishing their floors for the first time.

Once you have chosen a sander, you'll need to select the correct sandpaper. The grit of the sandpaper will determine how much material is removed from the floors.

Coarse-grit sandpaper (60-80 grit) is used to remove old finish and smooth out rough spots.
Medium-grit sandpaper (100-120 grit) is used to smooth out the floors after they have been sanded with coarse-grit sandpaper.
Fine-grit sandpaper (150-180 grit) is used to polish the floors.

To sand the floors, start by using coarse-grit sandpaper. Sand the floors in the direction of the grain. Once you have sanded the floors with coarse-grit sandpaper, switch to medium-grit sandpaper. Continue sanding the floors in the direction of the grain until they are smooth. Finally, switch to fine-grit sandpaper and polish the floors.

Applying the New Finish

Once the floors have been sanded, it's time to apply the new finish.

There are two types of finishes that you can use on bamboo floors: oil-based finishes and water-based finishes.

Oil-based finishes are more durable than water-based finishes. They also give the floors a richer, more natural look.
Water-based finishes are less durable than oil-based finishes. However, they are easier to apply and they dry faster.

To apply the new finish, use a brush or a roller. Apply the finish in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

Aftercare

Once the new finish has been applied, it's important to take care of your floors to keep them looking their best.

Sweep or vacuum the floors regularly. This will remove any dirt or debris that could scratch the floors.
Wipe up spills immediately. Spills can damage the finish if they are not cleaned up quickly.
Use a floor cleaner that is specifically designed for bamboo floors. Harsh cleaners can damage the finish.

By following these tips, you can keep your refinished bamboo floors looking beautiful for years to come.