Black floorboards - tips to get them looking new

sbird90

Hey everyone! We are getting new carpets fitted and just pulled up the carpet. I’m surprised at how nice the floorboards are and considering keeping them exposed. Not sure what the black is either side though and wondering if just sanding will help? A google seems to say it is mould but the fact is both sides and a perfect straight line makes me think maybe in the past they’ve stained the edges and put a runner in the middle? Or have I just got very neat growing mould  😂 
ive give it a good wash and that hasn’t done anything! 

Doozergirl

It's been stained.  There would have been a runner.  You can hire a belt sander and it will take it all back to a lighter, more uniform colour.  

neilmcl

As above, not mould, there's just been a runner on there for many years with the rest being stained. You'll need to hire a belt sander to take it back to an original, uniform colour.

joe90mitch

Then, and you probably already realise this, once sanded you have multiple options for finish - e.g. leaving it natural colour or staining it a darker brown, some people even choose to paint. Then beyond that whether you want a matt, satin or gloss finish (I believe they get more hardwearing as you move from matt to gloss).

One consideration is whether you have any pets. We got our first floor done and were really happy with the finish (though the "floor restoration" company didn't do a great job of fitting replacement boards in my opinion), but we've since got a dog and her claws really do scratch it when she runs around. No issues on the hardwood floor downstairs, but seems these old original floorboards are generally softer pine. But hey ho you live and learn

Belenus

Doozergirl said:

It's been stained.  There would have been a runner.  You can hire a belt sander and it will take it all back to a lighter, more uniform colour.  

And prepare for a house full of dust.

If possible seal up the door or doors while sanding.