Hey everyone,
So, I recently heard from a new homeowner who snagged a bargain of a house, but it came with a rather… fragrant surprise. We’re talking about persistent, unpleasant odors that seem to be deeply embedded in the plywood subflooring. The likely culprit? Pet urine. It’s a common issue, especially in older homes or those with a history of pets, and it can really put a damper on enjoying your new space.
Our reader is wondering about the best way to tackle this. Should they sand it down, or is painting the answer? Let’s dig into this.
Understanding the Problem
Plywood is porous, which means liquids, like pet urine, can soak in pretty deep. It doesn’t just sit on the surface; it can seep into the wood fibers, and that’s where the odor molecules really take hold. Over time, as the moisture evaporates, the odor gets trapped, and it can be quite stubborn.
Sanding: The First Line of Defense?
Sanding can be an option, especially if the damage isn’t too deep. The idea is to physically remove the stained and saturated layers of wood. You’d likely need a powerful floor sander for this, and you’ll want to go down to clean wood. However, there are a few things to consider:
- Depth of Penetration: If the urine has soaked very deeply, sanding might not get it all out. You might remove the surface stain, but the smell could linger if the deeper fibers are still affected.
- Dust: Floor sanding creates a lot of dust, so good ventilation and protective gear are a must.
- The Result: After sanding, the plywood will look like raw wood. You’ll definitely need to seal or paint it afterward to protect it and give it a finished look.
Painting/Sealing: A Barrier Approach
If sanding isn’t feasible, or as a follow-up to sanding, painting or sealing the subfloor is a popular method. The goal here is to create a barrier that locks in the odor.
- Odor-Blocking Primers: There are specific primers on the market designed to block odors. These often contain special sealing agents that work well for tough smells like pet urine, smoke, or mildew. You’ll likely need a couple of coats.
- Epoxy Paints: For a really durable and effective barrier, consider an epoxy floor paint. These are tough, water-resistant, and can provide a good seal against odors. They come in various colors and finishes.
- Application: Whichever you choose, proper prep is key. Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and free of any loose debris before you start painting.
My Recommendation
For a situation like this, I’d lean towards a combined approach, or at least a robust sealing method.
- Clean Thoroughly: Before doing anything else, give the subfloor a good scrub with an enzymatic cleaner designed to break down pet waste. Let it dry completely.
- Consider a Light Sanding (if possible): If the odor seems very superficial, a light sanding might help remove the most affected surface layers. If not, don’t stress it.
- Seal with a Quality Odor-Blocking Primer: This is often the most effective step. Apply at least two coats of a good-quality, oil-based or shellac-based primer that specifically states it blocks odors. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Top Coat (Optional but Recommended): Once the primer is dry, you can apply a finish coat. This could be a durable floor paint (like an epoxy or latex floor enamel) or even a clear poly-urethanesealer to protect the plywood and give it a finished look.
Remember to always test any product in an inconspicuous area first. And ensure good ventilation throughout the process.
It takes a bit of effort, but with the right approach, you can definitely tackle those persistent odors and make your new house smell like home!
Happy renovating!