It’s easy to understand why so many homeowners are interested in antique wood floor restoration. Wood floors carry a long, long history that can stretch back for decades or even a century or more and bring with them a lot of character. Restoration can help to revitalise the wood floor, making it look better than ever.
Or at least, that’s the idea. While antique floor restoration is very much possible in many cases, it’s not always going to be a slam-dunk success. Mostly, success depends on ensuring the job is carried out to the highest of standards, which usually means working with professionals.
In this post, we’ll run through some key information you’ll need to know about restoring antique wood floors, including what to assess before starting, different finishing options, and how to care for the floors once they’ve been restored.
Can Every Antique Wood Floor Be Restored?
In general, yes, most antique wood floors can be restored. There are a few factors that can mean it’d be better to replace rather than restore the floor, though. For example, if the boards have already been sanded down multiple times or the structural integrity has been compromised, then replacement is usually the better option. The type of wood is important too; oak, chestnut, and elm tend to last longer than more modern timber.
Antique Wood Floor Restoration: How to Assess Before Starting
Knowing the starting point can help you determine the feasibility of successfully restoring the wooden flooring. Pay attention to:
- Scratches (are they surface level, or deeply cut?)
- The finish (if it’s just worn, that can be an easy fix)
- Gaps between boards (not a problem, just may need to be filled).
- Damaged boards (heavily damaged boards may need to be replaced).
- Stains (some may be removable, or accepted).
- Loose or missing sections (may need to be structurally fixed)
The ultimate goal is to restore/preserve the original colour, grain, patina, and character. An experienced antique wood flooring company will have the tools and techniques required to do just that.
Different Finishing Options
The final step of the job is to apply a finish to the wooden floor. Some popular options include:
- Wax
- Oil
- Varnish
Choosing the right one enhances the look, as well as improving long-term performance. A wooden floor restoration company can advise you on the right option.
How to Care for Restored Wood Floors
Once your wooden floors have been restored, you’ll hope to enjoy them for many years to come. A few simple tips can help you to extend the life of your wooden floors, ensuring they look just as good many years down the line as they do on day one. These tips include:
- Cleaning using pH-neutral cleaners designed for wooden floors
- Placing felt pads under furniture legs
- Maintaining consistent humidity (40% – 60%)
- Avoiding prolonged UV exposure
- Addressing small issues quickly.
Want to know whether it’s possible to restore your antique or original wooden flooring, or need help with the restoration? At West One Wood Flooring, our team has extensive experience and expertise in all aspects of antique wood floor restoration, including sanding, filing, and colour and finish.
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