I would like some advice about putting a new finish on my prefinished floors. The floors are 5/16" solid oak strips manufactured by Bruce. They were installed in our house about 12 years ago. The finish is really worn and faded from sunlight. I'd really like to "spruce" up the floors by restoring some of the color and putting a new finish on them. What is the best way to go about it? I've read about screening but don't really know what that involves except that it does not require complete refinishing. Someone on another message board suggested that I use TyKote. Can anyone make a suggestion or point me to where I can get more information? Thanks so much for any help you can give.

Susan

It sounds like your floors need to be recoated. This is assumming they are not too worn out. I recommend hiring a pro for this. The process for cleaning, buffing and recoating takes knowledge, skill and the proper tools. This isn't to say t DIYer could not do it but the risk of failure is greater and the outcome is usually not as good. The cost for a pro will be between $1.00 to $1.50 per sq.ft. Did you see this article?
http://www.hardwoodinstaller.com/hardwo ... screen.htm

A lot of people on this board have been raving about the Basic system that does not require screening. It has a primer that somehow chemically preps the existing floor for a coat of the Basic finish. I a not familiar with it and I am leery of it (I am a Traffic person), but a lot of people stand behind it. As Gary said though refinishing is really not a DIY project unless you are very detail oriented. It is very easily to get contaminants in your finish and then it may require a sand and finish to get them out which equals more $.

Thanks for your replies. I was certain this was a DIY project but maybe not. Think I might try to get a few estimates. It will be interesting to hear what they say needs to be done. Thanks again for your help!