Revitalize Your Hardwood Floors: Screen & Recoat with Wax Removal

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Hardwood floors add timeless elegance and value to any home, but over time, even the most durable finishes can show wear. Scuff marks, dullness, and a general lack of luster can diminish their beauty, leaving your floors looking tired and outdated. Fortunately, restoring your hardwood's original shine is often simpler and more affordable than you might think. A screen and recoat process, coupled with a thorough wax removal, can dramatically revitalize your floors, bringing back their rich color and natural brilliance. This is especially effective when dealing with built-up layers of old wax that prevent a new finish from properly adhering.

This simple yet effective technique can breathe new life into your hardwood floors, transforming them from drab to fab. Ready to see the amazing results for yourself? Let's dive into a step-by-step guide that will walk you through the entire screen and recoat process, including the crucial step of removing any existing wax buildup, ensuring a flawless and long-lasting finish.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed

Stripping agent
Screen machine
Floor cleaning solution
Polyurethane
Mops
Rollers

Safety Guidelines

Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a respirator mask to avoid inhaling dust and fumes, safety glasses to protect your eyes, and gloves to protect your skin.
Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area. Open windows and doors, and consider using fans to circulate air. The fumes from solvents and finishes can be harmful.
Test any cleaning solution or finish in an inconspicuous area first to check for color changes or damage to the wood before applying it to the entire floor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wax Removal
- Apply stripping agent to emulsify and loosen the acrylic wax buildup.
- Allow the stripping agent to sit for 10-15 minutes to fully emulsify the wax.
Wax Removal
Surface Preparation
- Use a screen machine to remove the old polyurethane topcoat. This will be aggressive due to the floor's condition.
- Thoroughly clean the floor to remove any remaining wax residue, dirt, or debris.
- Apply a preparatory floor cleaning solution to prepare the surface for the new topcoat.
Surface Preparation
Polyurethane Application
- Apply the first coat of polyurethane, paying attention to edges and corners.
- Allow the first coat to dry completely.
- Apply a second coat of polyurethane for a smooth, even finish. This coat levels and evens out the sheen.
Polyurethane Application

Tips

Identify and remove acrylic wax buildup before proceeding. Using products like rejuvenate or Bona polishes can lead to costly wax removal later.
Screen and recoat is a cost-effective solution compared to full sanding and refinishing, but it will not result in perfect floors. Manage client expectations accordingly.
A thorough cleaning is crucial to ensure proper adhesion and prevent premature bond failure.
Consider screen and recoat as part of a regular maintenance plan (every 3-5 years) to prevent the need for expensive full refinishing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Wax Removal

Reason: Residual wax prevents proper adhesion of the new finish, leading to peeling or uneven coating.

Solution: Thoroughly clean the floor with a wax remover following the manufacturer's instructions to ensure complete removal before recoating.

2. Using the Wrong Screen

Reason: Using a screen that's too coarse can remove too much wood, while one that's too fine won't adequately prepare the surface for recoating.

Solution: Select the appropriate grit screen based on the floor's condition and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the screening process.

3. Applying Too Much Finish at Once

Reason: Thick coats of finish will take longer to dry and increase the risk of bubbling, cracking, or an uneven finish.

Solution: Apply thin, even coats of finish, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

FAQs

How often should I screen and recoat my hardwood floors?

The frequency depends on wear and tear. High-traffic areas might need it every 3-5 years, while less-used areas could go longer, perhaps 7-10 years. Look for signs like significant scratches, dullness, or noticeable wear in the finish.

What type of finish is best for a screen and recoat?

Polyurethane is the most common and durable choice for screen and recoat projects. Water-based polyurethane is generally preferred for its low odor and easy cleanup, but oil-based offers superior durability.

Can I do this myself, or should I hire a professional?

While DIY is possible, it requires patience and attention to detail. If you're uncomfortable with DIY projects or have extensive floor damage, hiring a professional is recommended to ensure a flawless result.