Floor Sanding Clifton Project Brief
This project took place in the charming area of Clifton, Bristol, where 4 Seasons Flooring was tasked with restoring the original wide pine boards in a ground-floor townhouse. The property had retained much of its period charm, including the original flooring, which required a full restoration.
The flooring spanned two large rooms and a connecting hallway, offering around 40sqm of surface area. The goal was to breathe new life into these pine boards through professional floor sanding Clifton, repairs, colour staining, gap filling, and a final protective finish.
Floor Sanding Clifton Client Expectations
Our client had clear expectations. They wanted the floor fully sanded and repaired, with all visible defects addressed. It was important that the original character of the boards be preserved while delivering a smoother, more polished finish. A dark oak stain was preferred to contrast beautifully with the light walls and vintage furnishings.
Additionally, our client requested that the old black mastic gap filler be replaced or matched to retain the floor’s traditional appearance, topped off with a durable matt lacquer for long-term protection.
Floor Sanding Clifton Process
Inspection & Preparation
On the first day, the equipment was transported and set up. The boards were thoroughly assessed for defects, uneven areas, and previously applied mastic fillers. Several planks showed signs of damage and required splicing. A total of four to five repairs were carried out using reclaimed pine to ensure authenticity.
Initial Sanding
We began with a coarse 40-grit sanding pass across both large rooms and the hallway. This was essential due to the unevenness of the pine boards and the presence of thick, older varnish. The existing black mastic between the boards also needed to be partially removed, as it was deteriorating and would interfere with the finish.
Edging & Corner Detailing
Once the initial sanding pass was complete, we continued with 80 and then 120-grit paper using the Hummel sander and edging tools. Attention was given to corners, edges, and pipework – all manually scraped and sanded to ensure an even look once stained. This detailing work is particularly important in homes with interconnecting rooms, as any missed areas become more noticeable when a dark stain is used.
Colour Sampling
By early afternoon on day two, we applied four to five colour samples for our client to choose from. Once our client opted for dark oak, the sample areas were re-sanded and prepped. The colour application began, using a pad to work board by board. The wide format of the boards required double-passes to ensure consistent coverage. Each room was stained up to the entrance board before finishing with the hallway.
Gap Filling
Unlike typical projects where filling is done before staining, this project required a different approach due to the original black mastic. After the initial coat of lacquer had dried, each board gap was taped individually. A modern black mastic alternative was then applied carefully into the gaps. Once dried, the tape was removed, leaving crisp lines and a historically appropriate appearance.
Lacquering
Two additional coats of high-quality matt lacquer were applied over the stained and filled surface. The lacquer was chosen for its durability and subtle finish, enhancing the grain without adding gloss. Between coats, the floor was lightly buffed to remove raised grain and ensure a smooth, professional result.
Floor Sanding Clifton Final Result
The restored pine floor now showcases its original beauty with a modern update. The dark oak stain highlighted the natural grain variations in the wood, while the fresh black mastic maintained the home’s traditional aesthetic. The matt lacquer finish offered a clean, smooth texture underfoot and will provide excellent resistance to everyday wear.
With the rich colour and heritage-style filling, the flooring perfectly complements the Georgian character of the townhouse. The restoration not only enhanced the visual appeal of the space but also increased its long-term durability.
Summary
This floor sanding Clifton project required a thoughtful approach to maintain the historical integrity of the home while delivering a high-performance finish. The combination of colour customisation, structural repairs, and advanced finishing techniques resulted in a striking transformation. Whether you’re searching for floor sanding near me or considering a similar restoration, this project demonstrates the value of professional craftsmanship in period properties.
Client Testimonial
Courteous, professional and tidy. Great attention to the important small details. The end results look stunning.
