The One Thing HGTV's Leanne Ford Always Tries To Save During A Renovation

Starting from scratch may be what most homeowners consider when doing a full renovation. Think ripping up floors, tearing down walls, and replacing everything with something shiny and new — the works. But if you ask interior designer and HGTV star Leanne Ford, she'll tell you that one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is getting rid of their original wood floors. Ford, best known for her work on HGTV show "Restored by the Fords," knows that the beauty of a renovation isn't about erasing the past but about embracing it. That's why she fights to save original wood floors whenever possible. "People buy these old houses and they just rip up the old floors because they're quote-unquote 'trashed,' but I do whatever I can to keep those, to enjoy the patchwork and the variation and the imperfect stains," she shared with Coveteur.

Ford isn't just talking about aesthetics. Original hardwood floors will always be the right choice, as it carries a home's history, told through every scratch, dent, and worn-down patch. She views them as character rather than flaws. "Can we keep the floor and let that be where we utilize the soul and the charm?" Ford said. She even goes so far as to buy and consider what to do with reclaimed old wooden flooring that have been taken out.

For Leanne Ford, keeping original wood floors is just as much about sustainability as it is looks. When doing renovations, she advises to "keep what you can and let it be a jumping-off point — it's what creates the good stuff." But doing this requires a careful approach to preserve their character while upgrading the appearance. You can start by cleaning them thoroughly to get rid of dirt and debris so you can see their true condition. Sanding the surface may be needed if there are stains or discoloration. Use an electric sander for wood — but be careful not to overdo it to avoid damaging the surface and causing further discoloration. Then clean up all the dust before applying a new finish. You've got a few options for this part — like polyurethane or natural wax — each with different durability and sheen levels.

Keep in mind that the type of wood will influence the best treatment. So it's best to know whether the floor is oak, pine, or another type, since it will guide your choice of finish. Use thin and even coats when applying the finish while allowing plenty of drying time between layers –- at least two to eight hours for water-based finishes while up to 24 hours for urethanes. Be patient during this process to avoid uneven streaks. It's also equally important to check the floor's substructure since damaged or warped boards should be fixed or replaced for a solid base. By carefully following these steps, you'll not only enhance the look but also extend the life of the floors!