Why This Question Comes Up (More Often Than You’d Think)
If you’ve recently lifted an old carpet or laminate only to discover black paint around the perimeter of your wooden floor, you’re not alone. It’s a common surprise in older Cambridgeshire homes — particularly the ones built between the 1930s and 1970s.
These black paint borders were often applied as a “neat edge” before fitted carpets became the norm. But now, as more homeowners choose to restore their original floorboards, that old paintwork raises a tricky question: Can you remove black paint from the edges?
Let’s walk through what’s possible, what’s not, and how we approach it at Art of Clean.
The Short Answer: Yes — But It Depends
Removing black paint from wood floors is often achievable but comes with three key variables:
- Type of Paint Used
- Old bitumen-based or oil paints can penetrate deep into the wood grain. These are harder to sand away fully.
- Depth of the Boards
- We can only sand to a safe level — usually 2–3mm — to preserve the integrity of your floor. If the boards are thin or previously sanded, we must proceed carefully.
- Your Desired Finish
- If you’re aiming for a completely pale, uniform finish, some staining may remain unless we use a light tint or colour-matched oil.
That said — we’ve helped many families and couples across Cambridge, Royston and Ely remove edge paint and reveal floors they’re now proud to show off.
What the Process Looks Like
If you’re picturing hours of aggressive sanding, rest easy. We use professional-grade, dust-controlled equipment to gently and gradually remove layers — assessing as we go.
Our typical process:
- Inspection: We check wood type, paint behaviour, previous sanding and repairs.
- Test Sand: In a discreet corner, we trial how well the paint lifts.
- Main Sand: Using multiple grit levels, we remove paint, smooth surface and reveal the grain.
- Edges & Corners: These are hand-sanded with smaller tools — especially important for paint lines.
- Finish: We offer oils, lacquers or tints to unify colour and protect the floor.
→ Explore our full wood floor sanding process in Cambridge.
Real-Life Result: From Stained Edges to Seamless Finish
One of our recent clients in Histon lifted their bedroom carpet to reveal lovely pine boards — but with thick black borders from old paint.
They didn’t want a “shiny new” floor. Just a clean, unified look that made the room feel calmer and brighter.
We tested the paint removal on one board, confirmed it could be lifted with gentle sanding, and proceeded with a natural oil finish that toned the floor beautifully. The result? A soft golden floor, free from black edging — and a happy client who said, “It feels like a whole new room.”
What If the Paint Doesn’t Come Off Fully?
In some older homes, the paint soaks so deeply that even sanding won’t remove every trace. In these cases, we can:
- Use a light tint oil to harmonise colour
- Suggest a border effect with purpose-made tones
- Discuss partial board replacement (in rare cases)
We’ll always give you honest advice, show samples, and help you choose an outcome that feels right for your home.
For Busy Families and Thoughtful Homeowners Alike
Whether you’re managing life around school runs or perfecting the feel of your curated space, black paint edges are more than just a visual nuisance — they interrupt the calm you’re trying to create.
Our role is to handle the tricky bits — no judgment, no drama — and give you back a floor that feels like yours again.
Wondering What’s Under Your Carpet?
You’re not alone. Many Cambridgeshire homes still hide lovely floorboards under paint, filler, or carpet glue.
If you’re curious — or you’ve already started peeling back the layers — we’re happy to take a look and talk it through.
👉🏼 Looking to reveal what’s under the paint? We’re here when you’re ready.
