Painted Sub-floor: The Process

So after all the hard work, I am happy to say I have successfully painted the sub-floor in my dining room.  (check out the more detailed How to paint your sub floor post as well)

The reality is, I really want hardwood floors on the main floor of my house, however, sadly we are unable to swing it at this time. 

So then the question became, what can I do in the meantime?  I was absolutely NOT going to live with a cream carpet in my dining room.  Not only was it under the table to capture the little nuggets of food and drink my little darlings dropped through out the day, it was also the spot where all the mud, dirt and grime collected from the back yard.  I am OK with sweeping and mopping, but I detest having to pull out a vacuum cleaner 3 times a day.  So I decided to paint the sub-floor until we are able to get the hardwood flooring.

It took me about a month to finish the project from start to finish, however, it can be done in much less time than that.

I first started by removing the carpet, tack strips and staples.

Next, I applied wood filler to the floor.  I am not sure if this step is necessary, but I was able to get a great deal on the filler, so I went ahead and used it.  (If you are able to get a good sanding than you may be able to skip this step.)  I did need to fill some rather large gaps between some of the boards.  Some of the smaller joints I should have used a caulk as well. 

Then I sanded the snot out of the floor.  I only used a hand sander.  Next time I will rent a sander that can collect the dust.  It got very, very messy.  This is one of the longer steps.  You need to make sure the floor is smooth.  

After sanding I put down 2 coats of Zinsser PrimeCoat2.

Followed by 2 coats of Sherwin Williams Porch and Floor paint in Gray Repose (SW 7015).

I attached the roller to a pole.  It made it very easy to get the paint on the floor.  However, using a roller leaves the orange peel finish.  I wish I had, some how, brushed out the finish so it was smoother.

After the paint dried I applied 2 coats of a floor poly.  I am not sure if this is overkill since I already used a floor paint.  But like my hubby pointed out.  If I am taking the time, it won't hurt to go ahead and apply the poly.  I really think he doesn't want to he me bitch later on.....

I then let the floor cure for 7 days before we walked or placed furniture back in the room.  I also needed to add quarter round to fill the gap left by the carpet.

We have lived with the painted floor for about a month now.  I am confident that the paint is going to hold up.  Already, I have dropped plenty of items onto the floor, including rocks, and so far no damage.  The only issues I have are some small cracking between joints (will better caulk and/or tape next time) and a  nail head cracking the paint.  I had one squeaky board that I tried to secure.  In hindsight I should have pulled up that nail before painting.

Currently are plans are to continue the paint into the living room.  Needless to say I am happy with our temporary solution.