Hardwood floors are one of the most luxurious types of flooring available. They add a timeless beauty and elegance to any property that no other option can replicate. But even the most well-maintained and durable floors show signs of wear and tear with time.
You know the option to refinish wood floors exists, to finally restore them to their former glory and extend their useful life. But how do you know when to refinish hardwood floors? Below, we discuss the 8 common signs to look out for, so you can invest in renovating them on time.
How Often to Refinish Hardwood Floors?
The lifespan of hardwood floors, on average, is several decades, with refinishing done every 7 to 10 years, depending on the foot traffic, the quality, and the type of hardwood floor, as well as the maintenance program. Therefore, high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kitchens will require refinishing more frequently rather than basements or guest rooms.
However, if you notice any of the signs listed in this blog, we recommend refinishing them soon. Keep in mind that regularly monitoring the condition of your investment and addressing issues as they happen will help you prolong the time between refinishes.
1. Visible Scratches and Scuffs
2. Discoloration and Fading
Sunlight exposure causes sections of your hardwood floor to fade or discolor over time. No matter how durable hardwood floors are, they cannot fight against the sun. If you spot uneven coloring, especially near windows or doors, then it’s clear that your floors are losing their protective finish. Refinishing them will smooth out the color and provide a new layer of protection against UV rays.
3. Water Damage
Water is the worst enemy of hardwood floors. Even minor beverage spills can cause long-term damage. The existence of dark floor stains, warping, or raised edges means your floors are suffering water damage. This kind of problem required immediate attention, with professional refinishing removing the surface-level damage and preventing future issues from arising.
4. Splinters or Rough Patches
One of the best experiences hardwood floors provide is walking barefoot. But the moment you start feeling splinters or rough patches underfoot, it’s a clear sign of when to refinish hardwood floors. Splintering wears down the top layer of your floor, exposing the wood to further damage.
5. Dull Appearance
6. Deep Stains that Don’t Clean Off
Some stains are way too deep for standard cleaning to remove. Whether from spilled wine or mud, if the stains in hardwood floors won’t clean off at all, then it’s a strong sign you will need to refinish them. Our flooring contractor sanding away the top layer and reapplying a fresh finish will eliminate those unsightly, stubborn marks once and for all.
7. Cupping or Crowning
Are the edges of your floorboards higher than the center? That’s cupping. But what if the middle is higher than the edges? Then you’re dealing with crowning. Both are clear signs of moisture imbalance in the wood. The severe cases will require the replacement of the damaged boards, but refinishing can solve less intricate issues and restore the floor’s even surface.
8. Gaps Between Floorboards hardwood floor renovation process
Wood naturally expands and shrinks when the temperature changes, but significant gaps between floorboards indicate that your floors are in need of refinishing. Refinishing can help seal those gaps and stabilize the wood, preventing further shifting and ensuring your floors remain in top condition.
Time to Refinish Your Wood Floors? Contact Us!
Now that you know the most common signs for when to refinish hardwood floors, you can finally say goodbye to your sad wood floor and hello to a brand-new looking one! Our flooring professional at Davila Floors & Tile can restore your investment to its former glory, extending its lifespan and even changing up its aesthetic if you so desire!
Don’t wait until structural damage appears, and begin the refinishing process today! We are equipped to handle all hardwood species with the care, precision, and innovation they deserve. So contact us right now to request your free estimate on hardwood floor refinishing! We’re the premier team in Columbus, Ohio, for the job!