Check out these simple tips for handling splinters and maintaining beautiful floors.
One of the main reasons hardwood floors are so popular with homeowners is their lasting beauty. Wood floors are a classic choice for versatile home design and durability, but over time, even the best wood floor can start to wear. You may notice over the years that your wood floor has begun to splinter in high traffic areas, such as entryways and areas where chairs are frequently moved around. Not only are splinters uncomfortable, but they are also a sure sign that your wood floor is weathering over time and will require some TLC. If you’ve noticed splintering in your wood floor, check out these simple tips for handling splinters and maintaining beautiful floors.
Don’t Pull Splinters
Whether you’ve had an uncomfortable splinter in your barefoot or are simply tired of unsightly floor splinters, it’s important to leave the splinters alone. Your first instinct may be to pull up the splinters to keep your floor smooth and remove the unsightly imperfections, but when doing this, you can pull up larger pieces of wood, resulting in jagged edges. This can make your floor look much worse for wear and create ragged or cracked areas of your floor.
Using Glue
If you find a splinter in your wood floor, there are a few ways to DIY repair. Start by gently lifting the splinter with a piece of dental floss and cleaning out any debris underneath it. Then wipe down the area with a damp cloth and apply wood glue in a thin line to keep the splinter down. Use small quantities to avoid a mess, and be sure to let the glue set long enough to keep the splinter flush with the floor. While the glue sets, it’s a good idea to place a piece of painter’s tape over the glued area and place a book on top.
Sand and Varnish
About 12 hours into setting the glue, it should be ready to sand and varnish. Gently use a piece of sandpaper on the glued area of the floor to smooth the area, being careful not to create more splinters. If there are still cracks in your floor, allow some wood filler to set before applying a layer of varnish.
When to Refinish
Some older wood floors may be too splintered or damaged to take care of with DIY splinter repair. In these cases, it’s a good idea to have your floor fully refinished to keep it looking newer and to prevent splinters. A flooring specialist can give your flooring new life in the case of severe splintering and wear.
Ready for a Beautiful Hardwood Floor? Trust John K Eareckson & Co.
When you work with John K Eareckson & Co., Flooring, we will ensure your hardwood floors undergo a stress-free acclimation process and that they sparkle for years to come; from a seamless and beautiful installation to years of maintenance, John K Eareckson & Co. Flooring has the expertise to care for your home’s hardwood floors. For a consultation and more information, visit us online or give us a call at 410-788-4200. You can also look for us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.