How to: Sand And Re-Stain Wooden Floor

Sanding and re-staining a wooden floor inside a home can give it a fresh new look and prolong its life. Here are the steps to follow for a successful project:

Start by removing all furniture and rugs from the room where you will be working.
Next, use a drum sander to remove the existing finish from the floor. Begin with a coarse grit sandpaper and gradually work your way to a finer grit. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid creating scratches.
After sanding, use a vacuum or broom to remove all dust and debris from the floor.
Use a hand-held orbital sander to smooth out any rough spots or areas that the drum sander may have missed.
Once again, use a vacuum or broom to remove all dust and debris from the floor.
Clean the floor with a wood floor cleaning solution or TSP (trisodium phosphate) to remove any remaining dirt or grime. Allow the floor to dry completely.
Apply a wood conditioner to the floor. This will help the new stain to be absorbed evenly and will prevent blotches or uneven coloring. Allow the conditioner to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Apply the new stain to the floor using a paint roller or brush. Work in small sections, and wipe away any excess stain with a clean cloth.
Allow the stain to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Apply a clear coat or polyurethane sealer to the floor to protect the new stain and give it a shiny finish. Allow the sealer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once the floor is completely dry, you can move your furniture back into the room and enjoy your newly refinished floor.

It's important to note that sanding and re-staining a wooden floor can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. If you're not comfortable with the task, it might be best to hire a professional.