How to hide screws on varnished floors

teepoo

Hi All,

I am about to varnish my floors, but before I do, I will need to fasten them down with screws. The only problem is that the screw heads will show up after I have varnished it. Does anyone know how to make them look less noticeable?

My current plan is to sink them just below the board level and then cover them with wood filler. Has anyone tried this?

Do "wood colour" screws exist?

p.s. I am not using nails because I have found that they do not hold the boards down tight enough.

Thanks,
Pete.

wallbash

You need a plug cutter ( ebay fairly cheap)

Drill correct size hole, insert screw so head is well bellow surface, insert plug.
( with glue) Let dry , chisel top !

Seems a bit of a long winded job, but you will get quite quick. and will leave a great finish.

carlsberggal

My current plan is to sink them just below the board level and then cover them with wood filler. Has anyone tried this?

I did that Pete with my dining room floor and the stain in the varnish really covered well

teepoo

Thanks,

I knew this was an obvious problem with an obvious solution.

teepoo

I am currently looking at this plug cutter:
http://www.screwfix.com/prods/32900/Drill-Bits/Wood-Drill-Bits/Plug-Cutters/Disston-Plug-Cutter-No-8

What I do not understand is what is meant by a "No. 8". I assume that it is referring to the size - but how do I convert this into mm to check that my screws will fit?

I am going to use these screws:

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/48499/Screws/Interior-Wood-Screws/Goldscrew-Plus/Goldscrew-Plus-Countersunk-4-0-x-50mm-Pack-of-200

Thanks

wallbash

Your screws will fit.

I know I suggested the solution. But it will take time. Perhaps a quicker method
( sawdust and glue ) could be used in areas where you know holes will be less visible.
Under a sideboard/table if in a dining room, or if its bedroom perhaps the area beneath the bed.

Lift a board or two and from the underside ( not too many/or too close together)
drill your plugs.

For best finish, remember to line up the grain.

Jonesya

If you're using pine/light coloured wood have you considered buying a length of dowel and using that to plug the holes - saves buying the plug cutter.