When to refinish your hardwood floors.
Getting hardwood floors for your home can be a great thing to do, because of their look. However, hardwood flooring can become dull and scratch with time. This is where you will need to think about refinishing your hardwood flooring.
Refinishing hardwood floors can bring them back to life, making them look new again. However, not all hardwood floors need to be refinished, and understanding when to refinish them is important.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the difference between refinishing and recoating hardwood floors. refinishing involves removing the top layer of the hardwood to reveal a new layer underneath while recoating involves applying a new finish to the existing surface. Refinishing is typically done when the floors are in poor condition while recoating can be done to improve the appearance of floors that are in good condition.
Signs to look out for to decide when to finish your hardwood flooring
So, when should you refinish your hardwood floors? One of the main signs indicating your floors need to be refinished is when the finish is worn or damaged.
- When your hardwood flooring looks dull
If your floors are starting to look dull, or if you can see scratches and scuffs, it may be time to refinish them. Another indicator is if the color of your floors is faded or discolored. Refinishing will not only restore the shine, but it will also bring back the original color of your hardwood floors.
- The amount of foot traffic received by the floor
Another factor to consider is the amount of foot traffic your floors receive. If your floors are in a high-traffic area, such as a hallway or living room, they will likely need to be refinished more often than floors in a less frequently used room. Additionally, if you have pets or children, your floors will likely need to be refinished more frequently due to the increased wear and tear.
- Age of your hardwood floor
Another important consideration is the age of your floors. Hardwood floors typically need to be refinished every 8-10 years, depending on the amount of foot traffic and other factors. If your floors are approaching this age, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a professional to determine if they need to be refinished.
- Nature of your hardwood floor
It’s also important to note that not all hardwood floors are the same. Some types of hardwood, such as pine, are softer and more prone to scratches and dents. These types of floors may need to be refinished more frequently than other types of hardwood.
Final words
When deciding to refinish your hardwood floors, it’s important to consider the cost and time involved. Refinishing hardwood floors is a big project and can be quite costly, so it’s important to weigh the cost against the benefits. It’s also important to note that refinishing your floors will require some downtime, as you will not be able to walk on them for several days while the finish dries.
Understanding when to refinish your hardwood floors is important to keep them looking beautiful and extend their lifespan. Some of the main indicators that your floors need to be refinished include a worn or damaged finish, faded or discolored color, and a significant amount of foot traffic. Additionally, the age of your floors, the type of hardwood, and the time and cost involved should also be considered. If you’re unsure whether your floors need to be refinished, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional for an inspection.