How To Paint a Wood Floor

Repainting a wood floor is a simple, inexpensive way to transform a room. The project requires little skill and calls for just a few tools. Below, learn how to prepare for a paint job, properly apply paint to your flooring, and maintain the surface of your newly painted flooring. Follow along in the video above for expert tips.

Preparing for Painting a Wood Floor

Preparing the floor before you begin ensures a long-lasting finish. Here’s what to do:

1. Rough up the existing finish with a 150-grit sanding sponge.
2. Level any high spots on the floor with the sanding sponge.
3. Wipe the floor clean with a damp cloth, and allow it to dry thoroughly.
4. Cover the spaces beneath doors with plastic to prevent dust from entering while you work.

Choosing the Right Paint

Not all paints work for flooring. Consider these factors when choosing a paint for your project:

• Durability: Look for paints that are specifically designed for floors. These paints can withstand foot traffic and wear.
• Finish: Choose gloss, semi-gloss, or matte finishes based on how you want the floor to look and how much time you can commit to cleaning it. Gloss finishes generally require the most upkeep, while matte finishes are generally better at hiding imperfections like scratches and dirt but may be less durable in high-traffic areas. Semi-gloss is a good middle-ground.
• Color: Select colors that complement your room’s decor.

Tools and Materials Needed

You’ll need the following tools and materials for your project:

• Damp cloths or sponges
• Framing square and straightedge
• Paintbrushes
• Painter’s tape with delicate adhesion
• Putty knife
• Rollers and extension poles
• Sanding sponges (150-grit)
• Water-based polyurethane

Applying the Base Coat to the Wood Floor

Start your painting project by applying your base coat, which creates a uniform background and leads to better coverage.

1. Start on the side opposite the door to avoid painting yourself into a corner.
2. Use the lighter of the two colors you’ve chosen for the base coat.
3. Cut in the edges of the floor with a paintbrush.
4. Roll the entire field with a paint roller that’s attached to an extension pole.
5. Allow the paint to dry completely, which usually takes one night.
6. Lightly sand and apply a second coat for full coverage if necessary. Allow this coat to dry overnight.

Creating a Checkerboard Pattern on a Wood Floor

A diagonal checkerboard pattern can make a room appear larger and more dynamic. Follow the steps below to lay out and paint this design:

1. Begin against the most visible wall in the room. Place perfect half-square triangles along this wall and extend your pattern out.
2. Estimate the number of squares you want across the wall, and divide the wall length by this number.
3. Mark the wall from corner to corner using these figures.
4. Use a framing square and straightedge to extend your marks into perfect squares.
5. Mark an X on the squares you won’t paint.
6. Use painter’s tape to section off the squares you want to paint. The tape must outline the squares you’re painting. Make perfect corners by tearing the tape against the putty knife. 
7. Seal the tape to the floor by dragging the knife over the tape’s edge. This will keep the paint from bleeding underneath.
8. Clean up any stray pencil lines with a damp sponge.
9. Lightly sand the squares you’ll paint and wipe them clean.

Painting the Checkerboard Squares

Once you’ve created your pattern, paint your squares by following the steps below.

1. Cut in the edges of each square with a paintbrush.Start each stroke on the tape and pull inward. Be careful not to push the brush bristles under the tape.
2. Fill in each square with a mini-roller, and roll in the direction of the floorboards.
3. Remove the tape before the paint dries. Peel up and away from the paint at an angle for clean edges.

Clean up any drips or mistakes by wiping them up with a damp rag while they’re still wet. 

Finishing Touches for a Painted Wood Floor

Complete your project with these finishing touches:

1. Look for any areas that need touch-ups.
2. Add a border around the edges of the room for a more polished look. You can use a contrasting color or a complementary shade to frame your checkerboard.
3. Apply a coat of water-based polyurethane to high-traffic areas for added durability. 
4. Wait a couple of days before walking on the floor or bringing furniture back into the room. This allows the paint and polyurethane to cure properly.
5. Place felt pads under furniture legs to avoid scratching your new paint job.

Painted Wood Floor Maintenance and Care

Here are some tips for keeping your paint and floors in pristine condition:

• Clean spills immediately with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
• Place mats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt you might track onto the painted floor. 
• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the floor’s surface. A soft broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment works best.
• Use a damp mop and a mild cleaner that’s specifically formulated for painted floors to clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that can damage the paint. 

You might notice minor chips or scratches in your floor over time. Here’s how to handle touch-ups:

1. Clean the affected areas with a mild cleaner, and allow them to dry completely.
2. Lightly sand any damaged spots to create a smooth surface to which paint can adhere.
3. Apply a small amount of the original paint with a fine brush. Blend it carefully into the surrounding area.
4. Add a layer of polyurethane to seal the touch-up once the paint is dry.