Kimberly Ripley is a freelance writer and published author from Portsmouth, N.H. She has authored five books and hundreds of articles and short stories. Her work has appeared various publications, including "Parenting," "Writer’s Digest," "Vacations" and "Discovery Travel." She studied at the University of Maine and later pursued her writing studies through numerous classes and workshops.
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Flooring IdeasSUPPLIES
- Power sander with fine-gauge sandpaper
- Broom
- Paint
- Paintbrush and roller with pole extension
- Water-based polyurethane sealer
- Painter's tape
- Paint tray
Overview
If your wood floor has seen better days, but a refinishing project just isn't in the cards, paint your wood floor fast and easy. With a few items from your local hardware or home and garden store, plus a day's worth of work, your wood floor will look upgraded and fresh.
How to Paint a Wood Floor Fast and Easy
Step 1
Sweep the floor thoroughly. Using a power sander, lightly sand over all of the flooring area that will require painting. Hold the sander steady and just firm enough to stay in contact with the floor. Too much sanding may cause unnecessary work later on.
Step 2
Sweep the floor again to remove the dust caused by the sanding. Using painter's tape, seal off the area between the floor and wall, where you don't want any paint. Using a paintbrush, paint the perimeter of the floor. Be mindful of the corners; they will require a bit more paint and strategic brushing to ensure full coverage.
Step 3
Roll the roller on its extended pole into the paint and begin rolling the paint on the floor. Work in a clockwise movement as you paint sections of the floor. Allow the entire floor to dry for two to three hours before applying a second coat. Repeat the process, including brushing the perimeter when applying the second coat. Allow the second coat of paint to dry overnight before applying the sealer.
Step 4
Dip a clean paintbrush into the clear polyurethane sealer. Repeat the process of painting the floor's perimeter as you did with the paint. Roll the roller in the sealer and paint the room, working clockwise by sections. Allow the sealer coat to dry for at least 12 hours.
Step 5
Test for tackiness by feeling a corner of the floor with your hand. Do not walk on the newly painted wood floor until the paint and sealer feel dry and smooth to the touch.
Wash the floor, using any normal floor-cleaning solution. Don't use abrasive cleaners, or the paint may become scratched.
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