Our Sanding & Refinishing Processes

Sanding Process for Hardwood Floors

At Heritage Wood Crafters LLC, we are committed to adhering to the highest industry standards, including those set forth by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). Below is our detailed standard sanding procedure, carefully designed to meet NWFA guidelines:

1. Diamond Head Rough-Off (Aluminum Oxide Finishes)

Use a diamond head to remove all applicable aluminum oxide finish. This step ensures the removal of tough, durable finishes that cannot be removed by traditional sanding methods. Vacuum thoroughly.  Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

2.   Initial Belt Sanding:

Utilize the Lagler Belt Sander with 36 grit to remove all old finish and level the floor surface. This coarse grit helps in removing deep scratches and old finish layers. Ensure that the transition between different grit levels is consistent and that each sanding stage removes the scratches from the previous grit, in line with NWFA guidelines to achieve a smooth, uniform surface. Vacuum thoroughly. Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

3.  Rotary Planetary Geared Sanding:

Sand the floor using the Pallmann Spyder with 60 grit. This ensures even sanding and prepares the floor for finer grits, enhancing the smoothness and consistency of the surface. Follow the NWFA recommendation to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid cross-grain scratches. Vacuum thoroughly. Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

4.  Edge Sanding:

Edge sand with the Clark edge sander using 60 grit and then 80 grit to reach areas that the belt sander cannot. This ensures a uniform surface across the entire floor, including edges and corners. Maintain appropriate environmental conditions (temperature and humidity) as recommended by the NWFA during the sanding and finishing process to ensure optimal results and avoid issues like wood expansion or contraction. Vacuum thoroughly. Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

5.   Wood Filler Application:

Apply any wood filler as needed to fill gaps, cracks, and imperfections in the wood. Allow the filler to dry completely before proceeding to the next sanding stage. Ensure the wood filler used is compatible with the type of wood and finish being applied, as emphasized by the NWFA to avoid issues with adhesion and color matching.

6.   Intermediate Sanding:

Sand the floor again with the Pallmann Spyder, first with 80 grit and then with 100 grit, to smooth the surface further. This progression through finer grits helps to remove scratches left by previous sanding stages. Edge sand with a rotary palm sander using 80 grit and then 100 grit to ensure all edges are uniformly sanded. Vacuum thoroughly. Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

7.   Final Buffing:

Sand with the Pallmann Spyder using a buffer head and 100 grit screen for the final smoothing. This step ensures the floor is perfectly smooth and ready for finishing. Follow the NWFA guideline to sand in the direction of the wood grain during the final stages to avoid cross-grain scratches. Vacuum thoroughly. Proper vacuuming is essential to remove dust and debris that could interfere with the finish.

8.   Water Popping:

Prepare a mixture of 1 quart of denatured alcohol to 3 gallons of water. This mixture helps to open the wood grain, allowing for better stain penetration.  Apply the mixture evenly to the floor. Let the floor dry completely before proceeding with staining or finishing.

9.   Custom Sanding and Prep:

Certain species of woods as well as stains and finished may require additional sanding steps.  These are based on the project and can be discussed as necessary. 

Additional NWFA Standards Incorporated:

Environmental Conditions:

We maintain appropriate environmental conditions (temperature and humidity) during the sanding and finishing process to ensure optimal results and avoid issues like wood expansion or contraction, as recommended by the NWFA.

Safety and Health Precautions:

We adhere to NWFA safety guidelines, including the use of dust collection systems, proper ventilation, and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure a safe working environment.  By incorporating these NWFA standards into our sanding process, we ensure that our work meets the highest quality and safety standards, resulting in beautiful, durable hardwood floors.

Process for Applying Liquid Hardwax Oil Finish According to NWFA Standards

At Heritage Wood Crafters LLC, we follow a meticulous process for applying liquid hardwax oil finish to hardwood floors, ensuring adherence to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) standards. Below is our detailed procedure:

1. Surface Preparation:

  * Final Sanding:   Ensure the floor has been sanded smoothly, finishing with a fine grit (100-120 grit) to create an even surface. Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid cross-grain scratches, as recommended by NWFA.

  * Vacuuming:  Thoroughly vacuum the floor to remove all dust and debris. Use a tack cloth or microfiber cloth to capture any remaining fine particles.

2.   Environmental Conditions:

  * Temperature and Humidity:   Maintain appropriate environmental conditions as recommended by NWFA. The ideal temperature should be between 60-80°F (15-27°C), and the relative humidity should be between 30-50% to ensure optimal application and curing of the hardwax oil.

3.   Application of Liquid Hardwax Oil:

  * Product Selection:   Choose a high-quality, NWFA-recommended liquid hardwax oil suitable for your specific wood type and desired finish.

  * Mixing:   Stir the hardwax oil thoroughly before application to ensure an even consistency. Do not shake the container to avoid air bubbles.

  * Application Tools:   Use a lint-free cloth, brush, or roller suitable for oil application. For large areas, consider using a buffing machine with a white or beige pad for even distribution.

4.   First Coat Application:

  * Sectional Application:   Apply the hardwax oil in manageable sections to ensure even coverage and prevent the product from drying too quickly. Work systematically across the floor.

  * Application Method:   Apply a thin, even coat of hardwax oil using your chosen application tool. Ensure the oil penetrates the wood grain by working it into the surface with circular or figure-eight motions.

  * Buffing:   If using a buffing machine, buff the floor immediately after application to spread the oil evenly and help it penetrate the wood. Buff until the surface appears uniformly wet and the oil has been absorbed.

  * Drying Time:   Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 4-6 hours. Ensure good ventilation to facilitate drying.

5.   Second Coat Application:

  * Intermediate Buffing:   Lightly buff the floor with a white pad before applying the second coat to ensure a smooth surface and remove any excess oil or imperfections.

  * Application:   Apply the second coat of hardwax oil using the same method as the first coat. Ensure even coverage and penetration into the wood.

  * Buffing:   Buff the floor again to ensure uniform distribution and absorption of the oil.

  * Drying Time:   Allow the second coat to dry thoroughly, usually 12-24 hours, depending on the product and environmental conditions. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

6.   Final Inspection and Touch-Up:

  * Inspection:   Inspect the floor for any areas that may need additional oil or touch-up. Address any inconsistencies to ensure a uniform finish.

  * Touch-Up:   Apply additional hardwax oil to any areas that appear dry or uneven. Buff as necessary to blend with the surrounding surface.

7.   Curing and Maintenance:

  * Curing Time:   Allow the floor to cure completely before placing furniture or heavy objects on it. Curing times vary, but typically 7-10 days are recommended for full cure.

  * Initial Care:   During the curing period, avoid cleaning with water or harsh chemicals. Use a dry mop or vacuum to keep the floor clean.

  * Maintenance:   Follow NWFA guidelines for maintaining hardwax oil finishes. Use appropriate cleaners designed for oil-finished floors and reapply maintenance oils as recommended to preserve the finish.

By adhering to this detailed process and NWFA standards, we ensure that your hardwood floors receive a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting hardwax oil finish. Trust Heritage Wood Crafters LLC for exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

Process for Applying Polyurethane Finish According to NWFA Standards

At Heritage Wood Crafters LLC, we follow a detailed and meticulous process for applying polyurethane finish to hardwood floors, ensuring adherence to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) standards. Below is our step-by-step procedure:

1.   Surface Preparation:

  * Final Sanding:   Ensure the floor has been sanded smoothly, finishing with a fine grit (100-120 grit) to create an even surface. Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid cross-grain scratches, as recommended by NWFA.

  * Vacuuming:   Thoroughly vacuum the floor to remove all dust and debris. Use a tack cloth or microfiber cloth to capture any remaining fine particles.

2.   Environmental Conditions:

  * Temperature and Humidity:   Maintain appropriate environmental conditions as recommended by NWFA. The ideal temperature should be between 60-80°F (15-27°C), and the relative humidity should be between 30-50% to ensure optimal application and curing of the polyurethane.

3.   Application of Polyurethane:

  * Product Selection:   Choose a high-quality, NWFA-recommended polyurethane finish. Decide between oil-based or water-based polyurethane based on your specific needs:

  * Oil-Based Polyurethane:   Provides a durable, amber-hued finish that enhances the wood grain.

  * Water-Based Polyurethane:   Offers a clear finish that preserves the wood’s natural color and has a quicker drying time.

  * Mixing:   Stir the polyurethane thoroughly before application to ensure an even consistency. Do not shake the container to avoid air bubbles.

  * Application Tools:   Use a high-quality brush, roller, or lambswool applicator for applying polyurethane. For large areas, a T-bar applicator can ensure even distribution.

4.   First Coat Application:

  * Sectional Application:   Apply the polyurethane in manageable sections to ensure even coverage and prevent the product from drying too quickly. Work systematically across the floor.

  * Application Method:   Apply a thin, even coat of polyurethane using your chosen application tool. Ensure smooth, consistent strokes, and avoid overworking the finish to prevent bubbles and streaks.

  * Drying Time:   Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, oil-based polyurethane requires 8-24 hours to dry, while water-based polyurethane dries in 2-4 hours. Ensure good ventilation to facilitate drying.

5.   Sanding Between Coats:

  * Buffing:   After the first coat has dried, lightly buff the floor using a buffer with a fine (220-grit) sanding screen. This step smooths out any imperfections and helps the subsequent coat adhere better.

  * Vacuuming:   Thoroughly vacuum the floor to remove all dust created by the buffing process. Use a tack cloth or microfiber cloth to capture any remaining fine particles.

6.   Second Coat Application:

  * Application:   Apply the second coat of polyurethane using the same method as the first coat. Ensure even coverage and smooth application.

  * Drying Time:   Allow the second coat to dry thoroughly. Follow the same drying times as for the first coat, depending on whether you are using oil-based or water-based polyurethane.

7.   Final Coats:

  * Additional Coats:   Depending on the desired finish and the manufacturer’s recommendations, apply additional coats of polyurethane, usually 2-3 coats in total. Each coat should be sanded and vacuumed in the same manner as the second coat.

  * Final Buffing:   After the final coat has dried, lightly buff the floor with a very fine (320-grit) sanding screen to achieve a smooth, polished finish. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all dust.

8.   Curing and Maintenance:

  * Curing Time:   Allow the floor to cure completely before placing furniture or heavy objects on it. Curing times vary, but typically 7-10 days are recommended for full cure.

  * Initial Care:   During the curing period, avoid cleaning with water or harsh chemicals. Use a dry mop or vacuum to keep the floor clean.

  * Maintenance:   Follow NWFA guidelines for maintaining polyurethane finishes. Use appropriate cleaners designed for polyurethane-finished floors and reapply as needed to preserve the finish.

By adhering to this detailed process and NWFA standards, we ensure that your hardwood floors receive a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting polyurethane finish. Trust Heritage Wood Crafters LLC for exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

Additional finishes are available and can be utilized upon request. Processes can be discussed during consultation.