What You Need To Know About Bleaching Your Wood Floors On Your Own
By EZEKIEL MAINA
Bringing hardwood floors back to life with bleach is a delicate dance between you, your tools, and the discoloration. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution but a precise art.
Certain wood types like Brazilian cherry, cedar, and white oak don't play nice with bleach and might end up discolored. You have better luck with ash, gum, and red oak varieties.
Before you begin, safeguard against cross-contaminating your brushes and rags, and if any chemicals should splash on your skin, act fast with soapy water.
Whether you’re working with oxalic or another bleach type, remember to wear your safety goggles. You’ll appreciate them should any bleach unexpectedly blow into your eyes.
Dizziness and lightheadedness are the last things you want while wielding a bleach-filled brush, so keep the working space well-ventilated. Fresh air is your trusty partner.
Before using bleach, clear the area of items vulnerable to damage, like carpets. Finally, your wood may be stubborn and require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.