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When and How to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Aside from making hardwood floors more resistant to scratches and spills, refinishing them can also enhance the value of your home. 

Whether you’re dealing with scratches, dents, or just a lackluster finish, understanding when and how to refinish hardwood floors will ensure that your living space continues to shine with warmth and sophistication.

When and How to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Signs That It’s Time to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Visible Scratches

Scratches and dents are common in areas with high traffic or under heavy furniture. Over time, these marks accumulate, making your floors look worn out.

If you notice significant scratches or dings, especially those that penetrate the stain and reach the wood, it’s a clear sign your floors need refinishing.

Fading or Discoloration

Sunlight can fade hardwood floors over time, leading to uneven colors across your room. Water damage may also cause dark staining or discoloration. When parts of your floor start looking different from others, consider a refinish to restore uniformity.

Fading or Discoloration Wooden Floor with Natural Warmth and Texture

Splinters or Rough Surface

A rough surface or splinters underfoot mean the finish has worn away, leaving wood exposed. This not only looks unsightly but can be a safety hazard.

Water Damage

Signs of water damage include warping, stains, or even mold growth on your floors. Excess moisture can cause irreversible damage if not addressed immediately. Refinishing can correct minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Staining and Scuffs

Areas that no longer clean up well or have developed dark stains and scuffs from shoes, spills, or pet accidents indicate the protective finish is failing.

Loss of Finish Sheen

Floors that have lost their sheen and look dull even after cleaning likely need a new finish. A fresh coat will bring back the luster and protect the wood underneath.

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How Often Should Hardwood Floors Be Refinished?

Every 7 to Years

Generally, hardwood floors should be refinished every 7 to 10 years. This timeframe depends on the type of wood and how much foot traffic your floors see. For example, this timeline is applicable for an average oak floor, but softer woods may need more frequent care.

Areas with less foot traffic can go longer between refinishing sessions. These areas might not show signs of wear as quickly as high-traffic zones. You can extend the refinishing schedule beyond the typical 7 to 10 years.

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What to Consider Before Refinishing

Floor Thickness

Solid hardwood floors offer a strong platform that can endure multiple refinishes over its lifetime. They’re thick enough to handle being sanded down and given a new life several times. 

On the other hand, engineered hardwood has a thin layer of hardwood on top of a plywood base. Have a refinisher assess your floor’s thickness before making any decisions.

Engineered floors might not support a full refinish. This is due to their top layer’s thinness. On the other hand, solid floors usually allow for more flexibility in this area.

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Current Floor Condition

Severe damage to your floors often requires more than a simple refinish. Deep scratches, warps, or water damage might need repair work first. 

In some cases, sections of the flooring may need replacement before the actual refinishing process begins. 

It’s strongly advised to have a professional refinisher evaluate the extent of damage. They can provide clear instructions on the best course of action. 

Remember, not all damage is visible at first glance. A thorough inspection can reveal issues beneath the surface.

Finish Type

Oil-based finishes have been popular for their durability and rich luster. Water-based finishes offer quicker drying times and less odor, which has also become a top choice for homeowners.  

Some finishes might only need a top-up rather than a complete strip-down and redo. A refinisher can help you determine this based on your floor’s current state and your desired outcome.

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Key Features of Hardwood

Impressive qualities of hardwood flooring from 50Floor include:

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Versatile styles

Choose from hardwood floors in different colors, finishes like matte, and sizes. We carry a variety of options to complement the style of any room in a home, ranging from traditional to rustic or contemporary themes.

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Natural materials

Authentic timber from our classic and exotic species include maple, bamboo, red oak, cherry and more.

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Sustainable resources

Hardwood flooring made with sustainably harvested materials promotes healthier air quality for your family’s well-being.

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Durable strength

Properly maintained solid wood floors are durable, staying with you for the long haul as an investment in your home.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Refinishing Hardwood Floors

Preparation

  • Clear the room of all furniture and belongings. 
  • Remove all dust, debris, and anything that might interfere with sanding. 
  • Inspect the floor for nails or imperfections. Repair these areas with wood filler to achieve a smooth surface for refinishing.

Sanding the Floor

  • Remove old finishes and imperfections with sandpaper until the floor is smooth.
  • Use an edge sander for floor corners. 

(Renting a drum sander or hiring a professional can make this step easier.)

Process grinding a wooden parquet floor in using floor sander of newly constructed house

Staining the Wood

  • Apply your chosen stain evenly across the wood, section by section, using a clean cloth or brush. 

Applying the Finish

  • Apply the finish in thin, even coats using a fine brush or roller. 
  • Wait for each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one. Apply multiple coats as needed for long-lasting protection.

Buffing and Sealing

  • Buff the floor with a fine steel wool pad to remove any imperfections. Seal after.
England,Close up of a carpenter wearing protective gloves, applying varnish onto a wooden surface with a cloth.

Maintaining Refinished Hardwood Floors

Regular Cleaning

  • Sweeping daily with a soft-bristled broom removes dirt and grit that can scratch the surface. Use a dry microfiber mop to attract dust particles for deep cleaning. 
  • Use a slightly damp mop and a cleaner specifically designed for refinished hardwood floors. Dry the floor immediately after mopping.

Damage Prevention

  • Place area rugs in high-traffic zones to minimize wear.
  • Use furniture pads to prevent scratches by cushioning the legs of chairs, tables, and sofas. 
  • If you can, implement a no-shoe policy or ask your guests to thoroughly wipe their shoes on the rugs before entering.

Touch-up Schedule

  • Small areas can be treated without sanding down the entire floor.
  • Plan to recoat every 3-5 years, depending on traffic and wear.
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Revitalize Your Home with 50Floor’s Hardwood Floors

50Floor offers a wide range of hardwood options, from classic oak to rich cherry, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your home’s style. With professional installation and top-quality materials, your floors will bring warmth and elegance to any space.

All of our hardwood floors are made from natural materials. They also come in versatile styles. Contact us today to learn more about our hardwood floors. 

If you’re ready to upgrade your home, schedule a free in-home consultation.

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