Repainting Floorboard - Advice needed

Vierjennings · 24 Sep 2017

Hi all

I am going to paint over some floorboards in my living room this week.

Whoever painted them before seems to have done a great job as they havent scratched despite a lot of recent furniture movement! They do now have added paint on them now though!

I want to paint over them in a dark brown varnish.

I am wondering how far back do you think these need sanding? (please see attached photo).

Would I need to go back to bare wood, or perhaps just lightly sanding? Also would I need to use a primer/undercoat or will I be okay as they have already been treated?

Thanks in advance

Rich

ED65 · 24 Sep 2017

If the existing finish is in good condition it's not usually necessary to go back to bare wood. As long as the surface is thoroughly cleaned and sanded uniformly matt you should get good adhesion, but you should run a test in an inconspicuous spot to confirm before going ahead on a wider area.

Vierjennings · 24 Sep 2017

Ah that's great.

Will certainly try on a smaller patch before hand. It's a big room so I will hope it works!

Thanks for the advice.

custard · 24 Sep 2017

Sounds like you're making a big investment in this project. Read the product instructions carefully and follow them to the letter, if you've unanswered questions then contact the manufacturer directly, in my experience they're only too happy to help.

The manufacturer has a vested interest in the outcome plus technical expertise in their own products, no one on this forum can match that.

Good luck!

Vierjennings · 7 Oct 2017

Had to postpone this job as I have been ill & work has just been manic.

Back at it this weekend. The product description on the varnish I have purchase has said to essentially scuff the floorboards up before varnishing.

Ive attached some photos. I am mid job.

Do you think this is acceptable?

In the photo you can see a floorboard keyed next to an untouched one.

Appreciate the advice.