Even the most well-maintained wood floors can lose their luster after years of use. While routine maintenance can help prevent this from happening, more aggressive action may be needed to bring back life and beauty to a worn or damaged facility floor.
Floor repair and restoration processes help restore a facility’s flooring to its optimal level of performance, safety, appearance, and durability. These steps can include repairs, refinishing, and replacement. While these processes aren’t typically required frequently, unforeseen circumstances like floods or equipment malfunctions can accelerate the need for floor restoration.
In some cases, the best option is to replace a floor rather than repair it. This is especially true if the damaged floor has significant water damage, or if the underlying structure has been compromised. It is also a good idea to replace a floor when there are permanent stains or damage that cannot be repaired.
A well-known and respected hardwood flooring company can provide expert recommendations about repairing or replacing a facility’s floors. In addition to providing detailed cost estimates and timelines, these professionals can provide valuable advice about the pros and cons of each option. They can also suggest preventative measures, such as placing rugs at entryways to trap dirt and debris and applying felt pads to furniture to prevent scratching the surface of wood floors.
Regardless of whether a client wants to refinish their existing wood floors or replace them, it’s important to start with a thorough cleaning. This is the only way to be sure that all surface residue is removed and that any stains are completely eliminated. This process should also include a deep clean of the subfloors and any other areas that aren’t visible from the floor.
Once the floors are cleaned and given ample time to dry, a refinishing or polishing treatment can be applied to restore the appearance of the wood and bring it back to its original shine. Many clients choose to go with an oil-based polyurethane, which is highly durable, easy to clean and maintain, and offers excellent moisture resistance. If a client is looking for a more environmentally friendly option, they can opt for a water-based polyurethane.
Other types of floor finishes that can be used on wood floors to enhance their appearance include waxes and buffing. While these can offer a slight shine, they are not as durable as the aforementioned options and tend to require more frequent upkeep and reapplication. Alternatively, a client can opt to use a moisture-cure urethane finish on their floors. This is one of the most durable and long-lasting types of finish available for wood floors, but it’s tricky to apply and releases high levels of VOCs that can linger for weeks afterward.
If your facility’s floors have been affected by extensive water damage, it is essential to contact the best handyman company in Memphis as soon as possible to avoid costly complications. They will be able to assess the damage, remove any standing water, and restore or replace the affected floors.