Wood Floor Refinishing and Restoration

More About Passive Refinishing

Passive Refinishing removes only those products that have accumulated upon the surface of the wood floors, not the surface wood itself. Only finishes, and the variety of maintenance products used over the decades are removed. The wood itself is left intact and there is no aggressive sanding that would flatten the surface down to a smooth and uniform surface. All of the wood floors surface characteristics acquired over the years from its use are left intact and visible. This procedure is very comparable to the treatment other antique surfaces receive when old finishes are removed to allow the application of new finishes. Surface marks left from years of use are coveted and enhance the beauty and value of the surface.

Once all surface accumulations have been removed, the surface may be treated like any other wood floor. The range of coatings and finishes that may be applied to the surface are excellent and the same as if the surface had been aggressively sanded.

If chemical strippers are needed, none of them contain methylene chloride or other noxious chemicals. We use chemical strippers that are biodegradable, meet VOC regulations and do not create a hazardous material or a toxic work site. Equally important, the wood itself is not at risk of being damaged.

Passive Refinishing is also done in a dust free environment. Enhanced vacuum systems insure that all surfaces are left clean and undamaged from dust. No special efforts need to be taken to protect the work area or adjacent areas from dust.

Passive Refinishing is a proven alternative and is available to those who want to preserve and protect old wood floors without compromising the aged look of the floors. The look it creates, with the original patina intact, is much more complimentary to historic interiors. It has been successfully used in a number of historic properties and we will gladly put you in touch with curators for references. Also, feel free to visit these magnificent buildings and see for yourself the results of our work.