Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Old Pine Wood Floor

We have just rented a small apartment (3 rooms and bath) in a beautiful old house (1920's). The pine wood floors seem to be in good shape except for the years of dirt, grime, use and abuse. We have thought through our options, sanding, covering with carpet etc, most are too expensive and time consuming to put into a space that we are renting. I would love to refinish them or should I saw refurbish them. Any advice on cleaning and applying a simple new finish would be appreciated. Thanks !! :confused:

Since you are renting, I would not spend any time or money on the floors. My recommendation would be to purchase some inexpensive runners and rugs.

To learn about floor finishing, go to www.nofma.org

We rented an apartment such as yours for the first year of our marriage! Very happy memories, and we've fondly remembered the floors of that apartment/house ever since :)

I suggest a good cleaning (Murphy's oil is good & will bring the floors to life somewhat as well as cleaning them), and then enjoy their imperfections and personality! Sure, cover them somewhat w/ area rugs...but to fully cover them would be a shame! They tell a story!

Don't use Murphy's if you ever hope to recoat - it will prevent finish from adhering and require a complete sanding.

Use a pH neutral cleaner for floor finish. Or, use 1 cup of white vinegar in a gallong of water. Do a section at a time and dry with old towel before moving on to the next section.