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How to Naturally Restore Hardwood Flooring

If you use the appropriate tools, harsh chemicals are not necessary to restore hardwood floors. With time and normal wear and tear, hardwood floors accumulate scratches, scuffs and scars. These unsightly spots require action to correct. The process often involves harsh stripping and sealing chemicals. It is possible, however, to completely restore the natural beauty of hardwood floors without these products. The natural method takes more time and effort, but for the eco-conscious consumer, may be the better option.

Things You'll Need

  • Dust mop
  • 30-grit sandpaper
  • 50-grit sandpaper
  • 100-grit sandpaper
  • Sander
  • Lint-free cloth
  • Tung oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Run a dust mop over the entire area to remove surface dirt or debris.

    • 2

      Rough sand the floor using a 30-grit sandpaper. Use a sander at a medium speed to remove old sealants and some of the stain, if applicable.

    • 3

      Sand with a 50-grit sandpaper on the sander to remove any of the remaining old finish.

    • 4

      Fine sand the floor using a 100-grit sandpaper to reveal the natural wood grain. Run the sander evenly over the floor in a smooth motion to avoid creating uneven spots.

    • 5

      Brush away all debris from sanding with a broom. Get into the corners well.

    • 6

      Apply tung oil to the wood. Pour tung oil onto a lint-free cloth and rub it into the wood. Hold the rag so the edges do not touch the floor and leave fibers behind. Apply the oil liberally and rub hard into the wood. Do not allow the oil to pool or puddle on the wood. Allow the floor to dry for two hours.

    • 7

      Wipe the oiled area with a clean rag. Buff a cloth across the surface of the wood to remove any excess oil. Go with the grain. Allow the floors to dry for at least 24 hours.