Floor Sanding FAQ’s
We would recommend filling the gaps in ground floor rooms and hallways as there could be a cold draft. In kitchens and bathrooms gap filling is recommended as a protection against spillage. We do not recommend wood fillers that are available in high street shops as they tend to shrink and fall through or get sucked out with the vacuum cleaner.
Step 1:
Re-nail the floor to ensure all nails are at least 3-4 mm deep.
Step 2:
Clean the joints out very carefully, so we don’t catch any cables or pipes.
Step 3:
Place a sliver into each gap and see if it is a nice, snug fit.
If it fits well, remove it and put the glue down on each side.
Place the sliver back in the gap and hammer all the way down the sliver, forcing it into the space. The further the sliver goes into the gap, the better.
Step 4:
Continue this process until the entire floor is tight and filled. Leave the slivers alone to dry for at least 4 hours. If possible, let them dry overnight.
Step 5:
Using a sharp chisel cut the tops of the slivers off so they are level with the floor. If the glue has been left to harden overnight, you will be able to kick the slivers off, leaving the gaps filled.
Step 6:
Clean up the mess and get ready for sanding
This method of filling gaps is typically more expensive, however, it will last longer than other methods. It is also less prone to cracking as it shifts with the floor.
If you would prefer a nice, natural oil finish, we use Osmo polyx hard oil, which is available in matte or silk sheen.
General FAQ’s
Oil-treated surface
If you choose an oil-treated surface for your new refinished / sanded wood floor, you get the maximum protection of the surface which is also environmentally friendly. The natural look and feel of the wood floor will stand out. The natural exchange of moisture in the room is promoted by the porus surfaces, which is also beneficial to allergy sufferers. In additon oil-treated surfaces are easy to care for, and can be partially refurbished locally if required.
Oil-treated, brushed surface
Planks treated in this wayfeature a marked accentuation of the grain. They have a really tradtional and authentic look. This special appeal is created by the use of steel brushes which remove the soft wood from the surface of the wood, giving the planks a special hardness as well.
Lacquered surface
Lacquered planks are just the right solution if you want a surface with a silky mat finish. The exclusive furniture quality look featuring multilayered UV acrylis lacquer gives them an elegant touch. What’s more, a lacquered surface is hygenic and easy to care for.
If you are not up to the task, GJP Floor Sanding London employs sanding professionals that are able to quickly and effectively sand your floor. We have over 30+ years of combined experience in the floor sanding industry so you can trust us with your sanding job.
Give us a call today and we will come out and give you a free quotation and walk you through our wood floor restoration process.
Benefits FAQ’s
Preparation & Sanding Process FAQ’s
If you can’t remove the furniture from the room then the job will need to be completed in two halves, rotating the furniture. This process will incur an additional cost.
The first thing we want to do is assess your floor to determine whether or not we need to complete any repairs. Is it just minor scratches that we are dealing with or is there something more serious happening? If no repairs are needed then we can simply remove the stains, paint, etc. with an approved floor cleaner.
Step 2: Clean the wood floor
It is important to sweep and ensure that there is no debris on the floor. Leaving granules of sand can cause scratches and other issues during the buffing process.
Step 3: Sand the floor
During this step we will use our sanding machines to remove all the scratches and wear and tear in the floor. If this is just a minor job then we can simply buffer off the old finish and there will be no need to go down to the timber.
Step 4: Clean up
We will be using various sanding grits with decreasing abrasiveness. In between each grit, we will need to clean up. As well, once the sanding is completed, we will do a final cleaning to prep the floor for sealing.
Step 5: Seal the floor
Sealing the floor isn’t always required but if your floor doesn’t appear to be soaking up the stain evenly then you will want to apply a sealant. It never hurts to seal the floor as it does create a nice even look and it also protects your wooden floor.
Step 6: Finishing touches
Now it is time to apply the stain or oil that was previously used on your wooden floor. Applying a couple of thin coats is better than using one thick coat of stain.
Yes, floor sanding is reasonably noisy. All our floor sanding team wear ear defenders and face masks. If you live in a flat or semi-detached property it may be worth while informing your neighbours. We keep noise to respectable hours and work between 9am-5pm.