Adhesion problems caused by salt, pet stains, chemicals etc.

The success of a refinish depends on many factors, but certain types of damage is a fairly predictable problem. Aside from staining and causing black marks, pet stains can interact with the finish and prevent it from adhering to the floor. This can happen with both oil based, water based, and pigmented stains. Additionally, salt is a primary culprit in foyers, as it’s tracked in from the winter environment. Unfortunately there is no solution to this other than replacing the boards. Moreover, damage can be invisible until the coating is actually being applied. Salt damage is notorious for turning the finish to a pale cloudy blue. If this is a concern, please discuss with us ahead of time so we can plan to replace the boards if necessary. Below is an image of a foyer with salt damage which has turned the finish blue and prevented it from adhering to the floor properly. The water damage over time has caused black discoloration between boards as well.

Michael Bonebrake