Spotted Gum Timber Refinishing – Case Study & Project Gallery

Project Overview: The Condition Before Refinishing

The home we worked on featured beautifully aged spotted gum timber floors that had seen better days. Years of foot traffic, exposure to sunlight, and general wear had left the floors dull, scratched, and discolored. These floors had lost their natural glow, and the homeowners were eager to restore their original charm.

Key Issues Identified:

• Surface Scratches: Widespread light scratches from foot traffic and moving furniture.
• Faded Finish: The once-rich colors of the spotted gum were faded due to UV exposure.

Before Photos:

Step-by-Step Refinishing Process

Refinishing spotted gum timber floors requires precision, the right tools, and a keen eye for detail. Below is the process we followed for this specific project:

1. Initial Inspection and Preparation

Before starting, we conducted a thorough inspection to identify problem areas. We assessed the floor for structural issues and areas that required extra attention.

• Cleaning: The first step was deep cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and debris. A clean surface is essential for effective sanding.

2. Sanding the Floors

The sanding process was critical to remove the existing, worn-out finish and smooth out scratches. We used a three-stage sanding method:

• Coarse Sanding: To remove the old finish and deal with deep scratches.
• Medium Sanding: To smooth out the surface after coarse sanding.
• Fine Sanding: To prepare the floor for the polish, ensuring a flawless finish.

3. Polishing

Once sanding was complete, we applied a water-based polish for an eco-friendly and quick-drying finish. The water-based polish is known for highlighting the natural hues of spotted gum timber, offering a slight sheen without overpowering the wood’s grain.

• First Coat of Polish: Applied evenly across the floor, bringing out the timber’s rich color.
• Buffing: After the first coat dried, we buffed the surface to smooth out any inconsistencies.
• Second Coat of Polish: A final layer was applied to ensure maximum durability and a beautiful finish.

4. Drying and Final Inspection

The floor was left to dry for 24-48 hours before any furniture was moved back. We conducted a final inspection to ensure the finish was even and flawless, and the transformation was complete.

After Photos: