How Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines Brings Life Back To A Home's Original Wood Flooring

When it comes to old hardwood floors, especially ones that have seen more than their fair share of years and are obviously showing their age, it can seem like you are stuck with only a few choices: pull them up or cover them up. From color change to wear and tear marks, unusual finishes, and gaps, it might just seem easier to replace them completely, but what if you didn't want to do that or didn't want to spend the money on completely upgrading them?

Well, how about refinishing them instead? Refinishing old wood floors is just one way that "Fixer Upper" star Joanna Gaines manages to keep them intact while still giving them a modern, bespoke look. You can see examples of this Season 3, Episode 2, where she was able to save the room's hardwood floors in stunning fashion. But there are even more benefits beyond just modernization!

One major advantage is the ability to change the floor's color if the existing one no longer complements your décor or style preferences. This flexibility allows you to keep up with design trends without the significant expense of new flooring. Moreover, refinishing is typically more cost-effective; it can save you approximately $4 per square foot compared to full replacement, potentially saving up to $4,000 for a 1,000-square-foot area. Finally, refinishing not only revives the aesthetic appeal of your floors but also enhances their durability, allowing them to withstand daily wear for many more years.

While you can always get a professional to refinish your hardwood floor, you can also do it yourself. First things first, clear out the room completely — yes, that includes everything from the furniture to the dust. Sweep, vacuum, and mop to make sure your floor is as clean as can be. Next, sand the floor to remove the old finish and get down to the bare wood. Make sure to follow the wood grain to avoid any scratch marks, and follow up with an edge sander for those tricky corners and baseboards.

Now for the magic ingredient — wood stain. Not only does stain provide a rich color, but it subtly updates your floors, making them fit right into more modern aesthetics. Apply the stain evenly with a brush or cloth, wiping away the excess as you go to prevent blotching. Choose a shade that complements your home decor, turning your floors into a stylish conversation starter.

Once the stain dries, it's time to seal the deal. Apply a protective finish to your floor to add that coveted sheen and protect it from daily wear and tear. Choose a water-based polyurethane for minimal odor and quicker drying time. Apply at least three coats for the best results, sanding lightly between coats for a smooth finish. By choosing the right wood stain and following these steps, you can transform your old floors into a modern masterpiece that even Joanna herself would be proud of!