Hardwood floors are a timeless classic, adding warmth, character, and value to any home in the USA or Canada. The National Floor Covering Association (NFCA) estimates that hardwood floors account for over of the flooring market in North America, highlighting their enduring popularity. But even the most durable wood can show signs of wear and tear over time. Scratches, scuffs, and water damage can dull the luster and make your floors look tired. This is where hardwood floor refinishing comes in – a process that breathes new life into your existing floors, saving you money and preserving a piece of your history.
Here are 10 key things to consider before refinishing your wood floor:
1. Understanding What Can Be Refinished
Not all hardwood floors are created equal. Solid hardwood floors, with a consistent thickness of wood throughout, are prime candidates for hardwood floor refinishing in Edmonton . According to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), solid hardwood floors can be sanded down multiple times (up to 8-10 times) to remove imperfections and reveal fresh wood underneath. Engineered hardwood floors, which have a thin top layer of real wood bonded to a plywood core, can also be refinished, but the number of times is limited by the thickness of that top layer. Generally, a minimum thickness of 3/16 inches is recommended for successful refinishing.
2. Assessing the Damage
The extent of the damage on your floors will significantly impact the refinishing process. Light scratches, scuffs, and minor water stains can be easily addressed through sanding and refinishing. However, deeper gouges, extensive water damage, or warping might require replacing individual floorboards or even the entire floor. It’s crucial to have a professional assess the condition of your floors to determine if refinishing is the most suitable solution.
3. Choosing the Right Finish
The finish you choose plays a vital role in both the aesthetics and durability of your newly refinished floors. Oil-based finishes offer a warm, classic look and penetrate deep into the wood, providing excellent moisture resistance. Did you know that the drying time for oil-based finishes can range from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the product and ventilation? However, they can take longer to dry and require more maintenance. Water-based finishes, on the other hand, are quicker drying (typically 2-3 hours), easier to clean up after application, and emit lower levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). They come in a variety of sheens, from matte to high gloss, allowing you to customize the look of your floors.
4. Sanding Secrets
Sanding is the foundation of a successful refinishing project. Professional refinishers use powerful sanding machines that progressively remove layers of wood to eliminate scratches, stains, and unevenness. The sanding process typically involves multiple grits, starting with a coarse grit (around 24 grit) to remove the bulk of the damage and progressing to finer grits (up to 120 grit or higher) for a smooth finish. Dust containment is crucial during sanding, and reputable refinishers will employ dustless sanding systems to minimize mess and protect your indoor air quality.
5. Staining for Style
While the natural beauty of your wood species is a selling point, stains offer a way to transform the look of your floors. Stains come in a wide range of colors, from deep, rich tones like Jacobean to light, airy washes like pickled white. Fun fact: The color of wood stain can actually change slightly over time as the wood is exposed to sunlight. You can choose to stain your entire floor a uniform color or opt for a more rustic look with a hand-stained or wire-brushed finish that highlights the wood’s natural grain. Discussing your desired aesthetic with your refinisher will help them guide you towards the perfect stain choice.
6. The Power of Polyurethane
Polyurethane is the final layer of protection applied to your refinished floors. It acts as a sealant, shielding the wood from everyday wear and tear, moisture, and spills. Polyurethane comes in various sheens, from matte (low sheen) to satin (medium sheen) to high gloss. Each sheen level offers a distinct aesthetic – matte provides a natural, understated look, while high gloss creates a more formal and reflective surface. The choice of sheen depends on your personal preference and the overall style of your home. Interestingly, high-gloss finishes tend to show scratches more easily than matte or satin finishes.
7. Environmental Considerations
Both oil-based and water-based finishes have environmental implications. Oil-based finishes traditionally have higher VOC levels, which can contribute to indoor air pollution. However, advancements in technology have led to the development of low-VOC oil-based finishes. Water-based finishes are generally considered more eco-friendly, with lower VOC emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that water-based finishes can emit up to 75% less VOCs compared to oil-based finishes. Discuss these factors with your refinisher, especially if you have concerns about indoor air quality or are environmentally conscious.
8. The Cost of Bringing Back Beauty
The cost of refinishing hardwood floors varies depending on several factors, including the size of the area (national average falls between $3 and $8 per square foot), the condition of the floors, the chosen finish, and labor costs. According to the NWFA, refinishing hardwood floors typically costs around 70-80% less than installing new hardwood floors. However, it’s still an investment. Obtaining quotes from multiple reputable refinishers will help you get a sense of the going rate in your area and ensure you’re getting a fair price.
9. Preparing for the Process
Refinishing hardwood floors is a messy process. To minimize disruption during the project, be prepared to make some adjustments:
Move Out the Furniture: All furniture needs to be removed from the room undergoing refinishing. This not only provides ample space for the refinisher to work but also protects your furniture from dust and potential damage. Consider renting a storage unit or borrowing space from a friend or neighbor to temporarily house your belongings.
Clear the Air: During sanding, significant amounts of dust are generated. It’s essential to cover or remove all air filters, electronics, and other dust-sensitive items in the room and surrounding areas. Additionally, closing off doorways and vents can help contain dust within the refinishing zone.
Plan for Pet Accommodation: Pets can be sensitive to the dust and fumes associated with refinishing. If possible, find alternative accommodation for them during the project.
Schedule Disruptions: Sanding and applying finishes can be noisy. Discuss the work schedule with your refinisher and plan activities outside the home during these times, especially if you have young children or work from home.
10. Life After Refinishing: Care and Maintenance
Once your hardwood floors are refinished, proper care and maintenance become crucial to ensure their longevity and beauty:
- Cleaning: Use a microfiber mop specifically designed for hardwood floors. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive moisture, which can damage the finish. Opt for natural cleaning solutions like a vinegar and water mix for routine cleaning.
- Area Rugs: Strategic placement of area rugs in high-traffic areas can help protect your floors from scratches and scuffs caused by shoes and furniture.
- Regular Maintenance: Maintaining a coat of wax or polish recommended by your refinisher can further enhance the protection of your floors and keep them looking their best. Reapplication frequency can vary depending on the product and traffic on your floors, but typically falls within a range of 3-6 months.
- Addressing Spills: Clean up spills promptly to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood and potentially damaging the finish.
After understanding these key aspects you will be able to make an informed decision and breathe new life into your floors. This way you will transform your living space and increase the value of your US or Canadian home. Remember, restoration is an investment, but it is a cost-effective way to preserve the warmth, character and timeless beauty of your wood floors for years to come.
Summary
With proper planning and execution, refinishing your hardwood floors can be a rewarding project. Not only will you restore the beauty and luster of your floors, but you’ll also increase their lifespan and the overall value of your home. The key is to choose a qualified refinisher who understands your desired outcome and can guide you through the process. By following these tips and considerations, you can embark on your hardwood floor refinishing journey with confidence, knowing you’re making a sound investment in the timeless elegance of your home.
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