Replace, Refinish or Recoat? How to Tell What Your Hardwood Floors Need

Hardwood floors add warmth and character to any home, but over time, they show signs of wear. When your floors start looking dull or scratched, you might wonder: do my hardwood floors need refinished or recoated? Or is it time to replace them altogether? Understanding the difference between recoating, refinishing, and replacing can save you money and keep your floors looking great.

What Is a Hardwood Floor Recoat?

A hardwood floor recoat is a process that involves buffing the floors then applying a fresh layer of finish over the existing finish without sanding down to the bare wood. This method is ideal when your floors have minor surface wear, such as:

• Light scratches

• Faded or dull finish

• Small scuffs or marks

  
  

Recoating restores the shine and protective layer quickly and with less mess. It can usually be done in 1 day and costs less than a full refinish. However, recoating only works if the existing finish is still in good condition and the wood underneath is healthy.

When to Choose a Full Refinish

Refinishing involves sanding the hardwood floor down to bare wood and then applying new stain and finish. This process is necessary when:

• Deep scratches or gouges are visible

• Water damage or stains have penetrated the finish

• The floor has worn down to bare wood in spots

• The finish is peeling or flaking

  
  

Refinishing removes all surface damage and allows you to change the floor’s color if desired. It takes longer and costs more than recoating but delivers a fresh, like-new look. If you notice your floors have uneven color or texture, refinishing is likely the best option.

Signs You May Need to Replace Your Hardwood Floors

Replacing hardwood floors is the more expensive and time-consuming option. You should consider replacement if:

• The wood is warped, cracked, or rotting

• There are deep structural issues or loose boards

• Previous refinishes have worn through the wood layers

• You want a completely new style or wood type

  
  

Replacement involves removing the old floor and installing new hardwood. This is a major project but necessary when damage goes beyond surface wear.

How to Decide What Your Floors Need

To figure out whether to recoat, refinish, or replace, ask yourself:

• How deep is the damage? Surface scratches can be fixed with a recoat, but deep gouges need refinishing.

• Is the finish peeling or flaking? If yes, recoating won’t work.

• Are there signs of water damage or warping? These usually require replacement, in some cases patchwork can be done.

• How old is the floor and how many times has it been refinished? Floors can only be sanded so many times before replacement is necessary.

  
  

If you are unsure, a professional hardwood floor contractor can inspect your floors and recommend the best approach.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Option

Choosing the right treatment saves time and money. A hardwood floor recoat is faster and less costly, perfect for floors with light wear. Refinishing restores floors with deeper damage, can provide a new look and extends their life. Replacement is necessary for severe damage.

By understanding the difference between recoating and refinishing, you can keep your hardwood floors beautiful and durable for years.

Consult With the Pro's!

It's always best to connect with a local hardwood floor specialist for an accurate assessment. If you're in the KC Metro Area, reach out to us today to schedule a consultation!