How to renovate floorboards after carpet removal?

[djharvey]

I’m ripping up carpet in my 50year old farm house and wanting to just keep the floors boards underneath. 
Do I need to sand the floors before I oil them. 
the boards have never been exposed always carpeted. Not paint or markings on them. Only nailed on carpet. 
I cant hire a floor sander bc I’m located 4 hours from my closest town. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @djharvey,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

It really depends on the state of the floorboards, but without seeing them, I'd be surprised if they were in fantastic shape after 50 years. Do you have any photos you could share?

Let me know if you need assistance uploading images. I am happy to help if required.

Oiling the floorboards serves two main purposes: functional, being that it protects the timber from damage and adds water resistance, and aesthetic, in that it enhances the look of the timber. If the floorboards aren't in great shape, oiling them will still serve the functional purpose of protecting them, but if they are particularly worn or soiled, then it will highlight those imperfections.

Realistically, considering the timeframe for the floorboards, it seems likely that you'll need to sand the floors before oiling. If you can't hire a floor sander, you can always use a random orbital sander or belt sander, ensuring you keep them nice and flat to not create grooves in the floorboards, and hand-sanding the corners and intricate spots. It will be time-consuming and taxing on your body, but it is an option if you can't hire a floor sander.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob