Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable option for many homes, but over time they can become worn and faded. If you’re looking to restore the luster of your hardwood floors, you might be wondering whether it’s worth refinishing them or opting for resurfacing instead. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of hardwood floor refinishing vs resurfacing to help you make an informed decision.
The process of refinishing begins with sanding your floors down to the bare wood. This is typically done with a drum sander and may take several passes to ensure a smooth and even finish. Once the sanding is complete, any gaps or imperfections are filled with wood filler, and the floor is sanded again to ensure a smooth surface.
Finally, a new coat of finish is applied to restore the beauty of your floors. The benefits of hardwood refinishing are that it allows you to completely restore the look of your floors, including changing the color or finish.
Additionally, since refinishing involves sanding down to the bare wood, any deeper scratches or dents can be removed, which is not possible with resurfacing.
On the other hand, resurfacing, also known as hardwood floor recoating, is a process that involves removing the existing layer of finish on your hardwood floors and applying a new one. This method is ideal for floors with minor wear and tear, such as light scratches and scuffs, and those with fading or discoloration due to sun exposure. The process of resurfacing involves sanding the top layer of finish on your floors to prepare it for a new coat. This is usually done with a floor buffer or sanding machine, and it removes the old finish without removing any of the wood itself. Once the sanding is complete, a new coat of finish is applied, which restores the shine and luster of your floors.
The benefits of hardwood resurfacing are that it is a quicker and more affordable option than refinishing, and it allows you to change the color of your floors without sanding down to the bare wood. When deciding between hardwood floor refinishing vs resurfacing, it’s important to consider the overall condition of your floors, your budget, and your desired outcome.
Refinishing is typically more expensive than resurfacing, but it can also last longer and provide a more dramatic transformation. If you’re on a tight budget, resurfacing can be a good compromise that still improves the appearance of your floors. In conclusion, the decision between hardwood floor refinishing vs resurfacing ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Refinishing offers more complete restoration and can last longer, but it’s also more expensive. Resurfacing is a quicker and more affordable option that still improves the appearance of your floors, but it may not be suitable for floors in more severe disrepair. Be sure to consult with a flooring professional to determine which option is best for your home.
