How to revive wood flooring that was covered by carpet?

Q: I placed carpet over my parquet floors about 12 years ago. Now I would like to remove the carpet. What do I do to revive my parquet flooring?

A: If the finish is worn off they will need to be fully sanded and finished.

If the finish is in good shape you will need to give them a good cleaning with an appropriate polyurethane cleaner that does not leave a residue. You should be able to purchase such a product from a local wood floor retailer.

You might then decide a light polisher buffing and fresh coat of finish will do the trick. Again however, if the finish is worn off and the wood gray and discoloured in any spots this may call for a complete sanding.