Do i need to sand my hardwood floors if they have been protected by carpet for much of it's life?

Question

my house was built in the 80's and it has hardwood floors under the broadloom, i believe the carpeting was installed very shortly after the house was built so the wood has not really been exposed to much usage. I want to remove the broadloom for some nice hardwood flooring but i'm wondering if i still need to sand and varnish the floors i took a peak at the stairs near the doors and the floors look pretty well preserved.

Answer 1

Yes you still need to sand the floor , problem is there may be some 'cupping' in the boards (that is slightly concave ) not much but enough to see when eventually polished .

You will also need to sand and fill the marks left from laying the carpet , more than likely you'll have a smooth edge strip around the perimeter of the room which was nailed in place.

To get a good job you really need to sand, fill & polish  BUT if you prefer a rustic look you could get away with just cleaning the boards   it's really up to you

NB there are some great finishes available from the paint section of most major hardwear stores

Good luck