When it comes to hardwood floors, many homeowners are unsure of whether or not refinishing is a worthwhile investment. However, there are several benefits to refinishing hardwood floors that make the process well worth the time and money.
For starters, refinishing hardwood floors can significantly improve the overall appearance of a home. If your floors are looking dull and scratched, a fresh coat of finish can make them look like new again. This can be a great way to update the look of your home without having to replace your floors entirely.
In addition to improving appearance, refinishing hardwood floors can also protect them from further damage. By adding a new layer of finish, you’ll be doing your part to extend the life of your floors and keep them looking their best for years to come.
Here are some ways to tell if your hardwood flooring can be refinished:
A simple way to check if your hardwood floors can be refinished is to check for wear and tear in higher traffic areas such as the front entrance of your home, or even in home offices where there are computer chairs with no protective mats underneath.
If the finish is worn down or there are scratches, visible dents, and scuffs, you may want to consider refinishing those parts of your floor.
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Generally speaking, liquid spills on hard floors hold up well when cleaned reasonably quickly, however, if left long enough it allows the moisture to be absorbed through the finish into the wood causing degradation of the hardwood floor panel.
Discolored or blackened floorboards can be a sign of water damage. Water stains are often lighter in color and will darken over time as the moisture seeps into the wood. Swelling, warping, and cupping are also signs that your floors have been damaged by water and may not be able to be refinished.
Changes in ambient temperature can further damage hardwood flooring so it would be worth considering replacing the water-damaged panels.
When it comes to refinishing hardwood floors, water is your friend. To test the finish on your floors and see if they can be refinished, simply pour a small amount of water onto the floor in an inconspicuous spot. If the water beads up and sits on top of the finish, you’re in luck – the hardwood finish is durable enough that you should be fine.
If the water is absorbed into the wood at a slow pace, it could indicate either your finish is wearing thin, or if the water just goes right into the wood, it might need some immediate attention. Repeat this in different areas of the hardwood flooring to get a feel for the overall condition of your flooring.
When determining whether hardwood floors can be refinished, it is important to check the floor for any warped panels. Warped panels can form a concave shape, with the edges rising up.
This is also called cupping where the edges are raised. This type of damage is often caused by moisture and can lead to further damage if not addressed.
If the floor has any warped panels, it is important to have a professional assess the situation before proceeding with refinishing as sanding can help to a degree if it’s not too bad, but panels that are raised or even cracking would need replacing.
Discoloration from UV rays is a common problem for hardwood floors. The sun can cause the wood to fade and lose its luster. In some cases, the sun can also cause the wood to warp and split.
If you have hardwood floors that are starting to show signs of discoloration, you may be able to refinish them. Another sign of damage from UV rays is if the wood itself appears to be bleached or faded.
It is important to consult with a professional as they will be able to assess the damage and determine if the floors can be refinished or if they need to be replaced for certain.
When it comes to refinishing hardwood floors, many homeowners are faced with the dilemma of wanting to preserve the floors’ original character while still making them look their best.
The good news is that it is possible to refinish hardwood floors and preserve some of their imperfections. One of the most common questions is whether or not they can be refinished. The answer is usually yes, but you may need to keep in mind the above factors before you get started or decide to call a flooring specialist.
Hardwood floor owners may wish to refurbish their own floors. However, refinishing hardwood floors is a wonderful investment for both natural and engineered flooring. If your hardwood floors are looking dull, scratched, or worn in spots, it may be time to refinish them either through a flooring professional or by doing it yourself.
