A nice hardwood floor is a source of pride. Most hardwood floors take between 20 and 30 years to show damage with proper care. Refinishing them will extend their lifespan. So when is the best time to refinish and keep it looking like new?
There are some telltale signs to look out for. Keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear is an important part of maintaining your floors.
By following our advice, you’ll keep your floors looking fresh and fine.
How long do I wait?
The answer to this question varies and depends on several factors. Your space and type of flooring are what matter the most.
For example, if you have a house with mainly hardwood flooring, you’ll generally refinish them every 10 years.
Buffing and recoating are your floors’ best friends. Maintain your floors by buffing and recoating every three to four years to prevent scratching.
Maintenance is key to keeping your floors looking good. By taking care of them, you will prevent superficial and long-term damage.
Signs of damage
Although hardwood floors are strong and durable, they aren’t invincible. Noticing different forms of damage is an essential part of maintenance. Look out for common types of wear and tear including:
- Water damage
- Scratches, dents and gouges
- Fading and discoloration
- Unremovable stains
Watch out for water damage — it’s a wood floor’s nightmare. If your home has ever had a leak or been exposed to extreme weather, look for warped floorboards. Wood expands and bends into an inverted shape when exposed to water, which can cause planks to push up against one another.
Even the most durable wood can get scratched, dented or gouged. These small flaws can become bigger problems over time. When they become more noticeable, consider refinishing your floors.
Water damage and exposure to sunlight can cause your floors to fade over time. Once-intricate patterns will slowly deteriorate and be replaced with dark spots and white streaks. Give your floors new life by refinishing them and reviving the beauty they once had.
When left too long, stains will make a permanent home on your floors. Spills and sunlight are the usual culprits. Although you can clean up stains if you catch the spills right away, it becomes more difficult to remove them over time. If you notice consistent staining, consider giving your floors a makeover.
A brand new look
If you’re tired of the same old look, think about refinishing your floors. Some looks can’t be obtained by simply sanding. Hiring a professional will ensure the job is done right and allow you to get the look you want.
Staining changes the color of the wood, at least if you choose something different. Tired of your light hardwood floors? Apply a few coats to your floor and they’ll look dark and sleek in no time!
Additionally, resealing your floor will make it sparkle and shine. The bonus of sealing is it protects the surface from water damage and scratches. Learn how hardwood floors can help increase your home’s value.
