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HOW TO PAINT YOUR FLOORS Print E-mail



Let's say you're stuck with flooring that's in terrible shape (or one that's just really, really unattractive), and your landlord isn't willing, for whatever reason, to replace or make any significant improvements to it. You could request permission to paint the flooring. If your request is approved, you're in a great position to transform your space with a little paint and a little sweat. (Perhaps more than a little sweat, depending on the size of the area and the method you choose.)

WOOD

It takes a lot of courage to paint a wood floor, because once you've done it, undoing it can be a lot of work. (Depending on your willingness and skill level, you may even need to hire a professional if you want to return it to its original state at some point.) But if your wood floors are in terrible shape, or if they've been painted in a shade you just can't live with, painting might be a good option for you, if your landlord permits it. Go about it like this:

1. Measure the areas you wish to paint.

2. Take your measurements to a paint or home improvement store, and the staff will determine the number of gallons you need to purchase. (Be sure to only buy paint specifically made for wood flooring, and follow the directions on the can carefully.)

3. Brush on several coats, until you feel you've have achieved ample coverage.

4. Finish with several coats of polyurethane varnish.

LINOLEUM

Normally, I'm not a skepticI just never believed it could be done. I would read articles and watch decorating television shows where people actually painted linoleum floors, but I remained unconvinced. Then I tried it. Okay, so I was wrong. The truth is you can paint linoleum, and it's not even difficult. Just do the following:

1. Clean the area thoroughlysweep and mop to remove all dirt and debris. Let the floor dry completely.

2. Using an acrylic-based paint, brush or roll several coats onto the floor. Allow this to dry completely (this may take up to forty-eight hours)

3. Top it off with several coats of polyurethane.

APARTMENT TIP NATURAL FLOOR CLEANING

Clean wood floors with a mixture of vinegar and water, heavier on the water. Add a drop or two of essential oil for an aromatic bonus.

Clean vinyl and tile floors with water and a little squirt of soap. Dr. Bronner's liquid soap works well, but a dishwashing liquid will do fine too. You can also add a bit of essential oil and vinegar if you'd like.


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