How to Paint Wood Floors to Look Like You Stained Them

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Stained wood floors add value and beauty to a home and have a classic look that never goes out of style. They are versatile, allowing you to decorate in any way you like because of their neutral appearance. Over years of wear and tear, wood can begin to show superficial damages through the stain. Painting wood floors offers more flaw coverage than staining as the finish is far more opaque. Several colors of paint are available, many of which can still afford you the natural look of stained floors.

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You can paint your wood floors instead of staining them.

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Things You'll Need

  • Paintbrush

  • Stir Stick

  • Vacuum

  • Roller Extension

  • Oil Paint

  • Tack Cloth

  • Broom

  • Urethane

  • Paint Roller

  • Primer

Preparation

Step 1

Sweep the entire floor to remove all dirt and debris.

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Step 2

Vacuum the floor to remove hidden dirt from between floorboards and in corners.

Step 3

Wipe the floor with a tack cloth to further ensure that all of the dirt is removed.

Applying Paint

Step 1

Apply a coat of primer to seal the previous layers of stain from bleeding into the paint. The primer also has an added benefit of creating a tighter bond to the paint than with stained wood alone. Apply the primer to the side of the floor that is opposite the entrance first, to avoid boxing yourself in. Use a brush to apply it around the walls and avoid messy mistakes.

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Step 2

Open a can of oil-based interior paint and stir it thoroughly with a stir stick. Choose a color that looks like the stain color you would normally use. For a rich, deep color choose a mahogany or chocolate brown color. For the look of lighter stains, choose a burgundy to resemble cherry or even a creamy yellowish white for a natural pine look.

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Step 3

Paint the side of the floor that is opposite the entrance first, to avoid boxing yourself in. Use a brush to paint around the walls and avoid messy mistakes.

Step 4

Paint the large areas of floor with a roller on a roller extension. Allow the paint to dry completely.

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Step 5

Apply a second coat of paint the same way and allow the second coat to dry as well.

Step 6

Apply a coat of urethane with a fresh brush and roller the same way you applied the paint and primer. This will protect your coats of paint from nicks and wearing due to furniture and foot traffic. Using a high-gloss urethane can give your floor a shiny finish as well.

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