Refinishing and Maintaining Vintage Reinhart Hardwood Floors

The Art of Refinishing Historic Reinhart Flooring

Original hardwood floors are a coveted feature in historic homes. Their rich patina and craftsmanship reflect the home's heritage and lend an authentic charm. However, damage and wear over time can diminish their beauty. Reinhart flooring from the 1930s is especially prone to border damage along the perimeters. Thankfully with some skill and patience, these top nail floors can be restored to their former glory.

Assessing the Damage

When rehabilitating a Reinhart floor from the 1930s, examine the border carefully. Look for gaps between boards, cracked or loose nails, and areas of rot or water damage. Use a probe to check for spongy areas and inspect the underside for insect damage. Make notes and take pictures to create a repair plan.

Identify if the original flooring extended under wood trim or if there is enough board to work with. You may need to remove and reinstall trim to access damaged borders. When possible, preserve and reuse original trim.

Equipment for Top Nail Floor Repairs

Refurbishing historic Reinhart flooring requires patience and the right tools. Must-have items include:

• Pry bar - to remove damaged boards and trim
• Hammer and nail set - for removing old nails
• Circular saw - for trimming new boards
• Nail gun and nails - match size of original nails
• Wood chisel - for cleaning under trim
• Putty knife - for filling small gaps
• Wood filler - for repairs
• Sandpaper - 80 to 120 grit for smoothing

Working the Borders

When ready to start repairs, follow these steps:

1. Remove base trim carefully by prying up with nail sets and pry bar.
2. Pull out damaged boards with pliers or pry bar.
3. Set replacement boards in place and nail with nail gun.
4. Use circular saw to trim boards flush with existing floor.
5. Fill small gaps with wood filler and allow to dry.
6. Sand new boards flush and smooth with floor.
7. Vacuum dust and debris.
8. Reinstall original trim or install new matching trim.
9. Finish floor with desired stain, sealer, or wax.

Take care when removing trim to avoid damaging adjacent boards. Work slowly and methodically. Use a nail set to drive old nails through the tongue to remove boards. This prevents additional surface damage.

Pre-drilling replacement boards can prevent cracking at nail points. Stagger new nails from old for strength. Leave ample expansion space between floor and walls. Match stain or sealer to achieve a uniform appearance.

Tips for Refinishing Reinhart Floors

Here are a few extra pointers for a seamless refinish:

• Number boards and trim to ensure proper reinstallation.
• Add shims if the subfloor is uneven creating board gaps.
• Sand entire floor to blend old and new sections.
• Use wood glue for loose joints before nailing.
• Fill indentations from old nails with putty before sealing.

Take time to evaluate the scope of damage and make a detailed repair plan. Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the process smoother. And remember, patience is key when refurbishing antique Reinhart flooring. The end result will be well worth the effort.

Maintaining Vintage Reinhart Flooring

Once the laborious task of repairing and refinishing those vintage Reinhart oak floors is complete, you'll want to take measures to protect your investment. Here are some tips for properly caring for top nail hardwood floors:

Protect from Moisture

Moisture is the enemy of wood floors. Water causes swelling, warping, discoloration and rot. Be diligent in wiping up spills quickly. Area rugs near entryways help limit water exposure. Place mats under pet dishes and houseplants. Maintain humidity between 30-50 percent.

Sweep and Clean Routinely

Dust, dirt and grit are abrasive to floor finishes. Sweep or vacuum daily, especially in high traffic areas. Use floor cleaner designed for hardwoods; avoid excessive water. Work in sections and dry immediately. Revitalize floor cleaner 3-4 times per year.

Protect Floor Surfaces

Pad furniture legs and feet to prevent scratches. Install proper floor protectors under rolling chairs. Avoid walking on floors with high heels. Place entrance mats and runners to limit grit. Consider area rugs in kid or pet zones.

Control Sun Exposure

UV rays can alter the color tone of hardwood floors over time. Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours. Move area rugs periodically to allow even exposure. Rearrange furniture seasonally to limit uneven color changes.

Re-coat Every 3-5 Years

Over time foot traffic wears down protective finishes. Schedule full floor re-coating every 3-5 years to renew the surface. Lightly sand and tack floors first for optimal adhesion. Hire a professional for best results.

Caring for vintage wood floors is simple with some basic maintenance. Protect your reinvestment from moisture, sunlight and wear. With proper care Reinhart floors can last another 80-100 years!

The History and Craft of Reinhart Flooring

Reinhart hardwood flooring has a long, rich history in the world of wood craftsmanship. The company began in the early 1900s during a booming housing market. Their intricate parquet and strip oak floors highlighted many suburban homes built prior to WWII.

The Birth of a Company

The Reinhart brothers founded their flooring company in Pittsburgh, PA in 1912. They capitalized on a surging demand for housing as the population shifted from rural to urban areas. The Industrial Revolution created a need for beautiful, durable flooring. thus Reinhart Floors were born.

Reinhart perfected their signature top nail installation style. This involved counter-sinking and hand nailing planks from above rather than angle nailing from below. The result was strong, smooth floors able to endure for decades.

The Heydays of Reinhart Popularity

Throughout the 1920s and 30s Reinhart Flooring saw enormous success. Post-WWI economic prosperity and social trends brought housing expansion to the middle class. Reinhart captured the market installing million of square feet nation-wide.

Their oak floors highlighted Tudor style suburban homes, many which still stand today. Unfinished planks were delivered to job sites where local floorers sanded and finished them. This created distinctive, site-specific vernacular flooring.

Decline and Rediscovery

By the 1950s, Reinhart Flooring faded from prominence. Home trends shifted and wood gave way to carpet and vinyl. Some original floor masters retired taking secrets of their trade. Builders turned to prefinished flooring for speed and cost.

But over the past two decades, Reinhart floors have seen resurgence. The old world craftsmanship and organic beauty is treasured once more. Homeowners painstakingly rehab their antique floors and many flooring companies want to recreate the retro look.

Vintage Reinhart floors represent a pinnacle of woodworking and American architecture. Their legacy lives on as new generations discover their enduring artistry and quality.

With knowledge and care, these heritage floors can grace homes for generations more. Their long history is a testament to the Reinhart brothers' ingenuity and passion for the craft of fine flooring.

FAQs

How do I determine if I have original Reinhart floors?

Look for telltale signs like oak wood, widths around 2 1⁄4”, top nailed, borders may be damaged or painted over, and floors are 80+ years old. Consult with a wood flooring expert for proper identification.

What’s the best way to remove old finish when refinishing?

Sanding is the preferred method, though time-consuming. Use drum sanders, edgers, and scrapers working with the grain. Chemical strippers can work but may raise wood grains and smell. Always finish sand after stripping.

Can new wood be integrated when repairing borders?

Yes, it just takes skill and patience. Match species, width, and thickness of old boards. Stagger new nails and use glue for strength. Blend colors with stains or toners and refinish entire floor for uniformity.

How long does a refinished Reinhart floor last?

With proper care and maintenance, restored Reinhart floors can easily last 50-100 years. Follow coating manufacturer guidelines for reapplication every 3-5 years in high traffic areas.

What are the best floor protectors for furniture?

Look for soft rubber casters designed for hardwoods. Plastic slides or felt pads also work well. Or cut rounds from cork, vinyl or laminate to affix under legs. Rotate protectors every 3-6 months.