When Should You Refinish Your Hardwood Floor?

A hardwood floor adds value to a property, be it your home or workplace.

Its beauty, style, comfort, and durability are unmatched. Imagine rich natural wood under your feet. Irrespective of its quality and durability, it suffers wear and tears over time, making hardwood floor refinishing necessary.

However, damages are different for every floor. You may efficiently mend some, while others may be severe and require professional attention.

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Many people make a mistake; they do not address the initial damages, which results in extensive repairs and, in some cases, floor replacement.

If your home has a hardwood floor, you must understand the ideal time to refinish it. But how do you discern when it needs more than regular maintenance? Here are a few factors you should look into that indicates the requirement of floor refinishing.

Scratches

Wooden floors are prone to scratches. It is natural for a hardwood floor in a room with heavy foot traffic to receive scratches. You can mend slight scratches or easily removable stains in an isolated part of the floor. But deep scratches penetrate the protective layer and reach the wood, necessitating refinishing. These marks open ways for water permeation, which can worsen the floor’s condition and result in extra expenditure.

Note: Avoid attempting a DIY repair. Do not apply a new coat of stain because it will alter the wood’s color. Sanding and refinishing is the perfect solution.

Water Damage

Since we mentioned water, you should understand that water is wood’s worst enemy. Clean any spills and fix any leaks that cause water accumulation on the floor. Drying out the hardwood floor as soon as possible is vital.

Excessive water damage leads to buckling, cupping, or warping. These are significant wooden floor problems that require replacement. Sanding and refinishing is effective if the damage is less severe and only has stains. However, you must address the issue immediately to save spending unnecessary money in the long run.

Excessive Staining

You may fail to prevent staining your hardwood floor because it is nearly unavoidable. Excessive staining is an indicator of floor refinishing. You can use regular cleaning solutions to clean stains. But if you fail, call a hardwood floor company in Los Angeles for expert advice.

Graying

Does your wood floor look gray? If discolored, you should understand that it has received water damage, even if only some parts of the floor look gray. The floor’s polyurethane finish has deteriorated, causing the wood to oxidize. It will darken and eventually blacken if you do not take immediate action.

As you may have already guessed, more discoloration means more structural damage, and it can quickly become an expensive affair. Refinish on time to avoid damaging the floor. Here are a few elements to consider identifying to prevent damaging your floor.

Sun Damage

Does your home receive plenty of natural light? It may not always be in your best interest. Direct sunlight can discolor hardwood flooring. Restaining helps but does not cure the problem. Hence, you are left with one option – refinishing.

Chipping and Gouges

Wood is likely to be damaged to extents that require more than just regular cleaning and maintenance, especially if your home has pets or children. However, it takes time. Chips and gouges can allow water to seep in and damage the wood. Splintered wood is harmful to kids and pets.

Worn-Out Spaces

Any wooden floor with heavy footfall will gradually wear out. If the stain appears worn, restain because it can cause splintering if not addressed.

Regular wear and tear are more noticeable in hallways and doorways because these spaces experience excessive traffic. But it also occurs in other heavily used areas, such as under regularly used tables and chairs.

Worn-out stain creates an entryway for water. It also warps the wood and causes mold growth. It can be costly because it usually requires replacing the floor.

Final Words:

These are some of the most typical signs of hardwood flooring damage that entails refinishing. Whether it is your home or office, it is crucial to know your floor’s condition. It helps identify the problems in time. It will help keep your flooring looking good and lasting for years before needing a major repair.