How to Refinish Waxed Wood

Overview

Waxed wood is wood with a layer of wax-based varnish covering it. Over time and considerable use, certain areas of the wood may become faded, losing their waxed gloss. When this happens, first try to buff the spaces and see if the deep buffing process results in a renewed shine. If not, you will need to remove the varnish and rewax the wood to achieve the desired shine.

Step 1

Sand down the wood with a power sander and 220-grit sandpaper. This removes the old wax from the surface of the wood.

Step 2

Apply a thin coating of a manufacturer's recommended wax coating. Spread the wax as evenly as possible.

Step 3

Buff the entire floor with a power buffer until it has an even gloss.