It may be one of the most common questions I get on my radio show: "How can I refinish my hardwood floor?" Whether it's a hardwood floor that was under carpet for years, normal wear or the family pets have worn out the luster, refinishing your hardwood floor can be done with a few steps.

Floor-finishing tips

Tools: Drum sander, edger, rotary buffer, orbital sander, vacuum, tack rag, applicators, dust mask

Materials: Sand- paper, sealer

1. To remove the old finish and get a clean start, use a medium-grit sandpaper with the drum sander. To handle very rough surfaces, start in a diagonal direction.

2. Using the orbital sander or edging sander, sand around the edges of the room.

3. Vacuum and wipe with a tack rag

4. Apply the first coat of sealer. Make sure to do this step very slowly. You don't want to have any air bubbles.

5. Between coats of sealer, you may want to use a rotary buffer to give the floor a light sanding.

6. Use a tack rag to clean the surface after the light sanding, and apply another coat. I recommend three coats minimum.

7. Don't use any wax on the finish. Just use one-half ounce of Simple Green to a gallon of warm water using a damp mop. Then, use clear water to rinse.