For floors that any budget can afford, why not try plywood floors - painted to suit your style. Yes, plywood. You can make common plywood into something special!
- Safety. Remember safety first! Put on your dust mask and safety glasses! Then sand those dents, dings, holes, and other assorted problem spots. Rent a pole sander for a day to cover large areas. And remember to sand with the grain of the wood, even if the wood is scruffy! Use wood putty to fill those major potholes!
- Clean. Clean up all the sand and dust you created by wiping up any residue with a damp towel or two - or three!
- Primer. When the floor is dry, paint on a coat of primer or use self-priming paint. Don't paint yourself into a corner by starting at the entrance of the room. Start at the far side of the room and paint the primer on with a paintbrush. Let the primer coat dry.
- Paint. Paint the floor using a roller. Again, remember not to paint yourself into a corner! Begin at the corner farthest from the door. Always roll from a dry area to a wet area to minimize marks and leave a smooth coat.
- Pattern.Let the paint dry thoroughly before painting your pattern. Use your imagination to come up with geometric shapes, flowers, the look of faux tile, faux stone or even a faux rug! Freehand or stencil the pattern depending on your ability.
- Cure.Let the paint dry or cure for at least two days after you paint the last pattern coat. No one should walk on the floor until it dries - no kids, no pets, and no adults!
There you have it - a beautiful floor embellished from your own creative efforts!
