Let our design team help you with every step of your hardwood floor refinishing¹, sheen and stain color.
Hardwood floors add timeless beauty, warmth, and value to any home. However, over time, they can show signs of wear, scratches, dents, and discoloration. Whether your floors need a simple touch-up or a full refinishing job, our design team will walk you through everything you need to know about hardwood floor refinishing and repairs.
Signs Your Hardwood Floors Need Refinishing or Repairs
Hardwood floors are durable, but they don’t last forever without maintenance. Here are some key signs that indicate your floors need attention:
- Scratches and Dents – If your floor has numerous scratches, especially deep ones, refinishing is the best option.
- Dull or Faded Finish – If the sheen has faded, it’s time to restore the surface with a new coat of finish.
- Water Damage or Stains – Dark spots, warping, or discoloration can signal water damage that needs repairing.
- Gaps Between Boards – Over time, boards can shift due to humidity changes, leading to noticeable gaps.
- Squeaky or Loose Boards – If your floorboards creak or feel unstable, they might need to be repaired or re-secured.
Hardwood Floor Repairs: Fixing Minor Issues
Before jumping into a full refinishing job, you may be able to fix minor issues with simple repairs:
Repairing Gaps Between Boards
- Seasonal gaps are normal, but if they persist year-round, consider using wood filler or inserting wood slivers with adhesive.
Replacing Damaged Planks
- If boards are cracked, heavily warped, or severely damaged, replacing them may be the best option. A flooring professional can remove the damaged planks and install new matching ones.
Refinishing Hardwood Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your floors have widespread wear, scratches, or an outdated finish, refinishing is the best solution. Here’s how the process works:
Prepare the Area
- Remove all furniture, rugs, and décor.
- Clean the floor thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
- Seal off other areas of your home to prevent dust from spreading.
Sanding the Floors
- Use a commercial drum sander that uses 220.v. to strip off the old finish and smooth out imperfections.
- Start with coarse sandpaper (36–40 grit) and gradually work up to finer grits (80–100 grit).
- Sand along the grain, and be careful not to oversand, as this can thin out the wood.
Staining
- Change the color of your floors, apply a wood stain with a cloth or brush.
- At Service Doctor we will custom match your stain color putting a sample on your floor.
Applying a Finish
- Choose from polyurethane, oil-based, or water-based finishes.
- Service Doctor design team will help you pick your sheen.
- Apply the finish evenly using a brush or roller.
- Allow proper drying time between coats.
Final Touches
- Allow the floor to cure completely before moving furniture back in (typically 3–7 days).
Tips for Maintaining Refinished Hardwood Floors
To keep your refinished floors looking great for years, follow these maintenance tips:
- Use area rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear.
- Clean spills immediately to prevent water damage.
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Avoid harsh chemicals—use a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner.
- Use furniture pads to prevent scratches from heavy furniture.
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
While minor repairs can be done yourself, refinishing hardwood floors is a labor-intensive process that requires skill and specialized equipment. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, you can rent a floor sander and tackle refinishing yourself. However, for the best results, hiring a professional ensures a flawless finish with minimal mistakes.
Conclusion
Hardwood floors are a beautiful and long-lasting investment, but they require proper care to stay in top condition. Whether you need minor repairs or a complete refinishing job, maintaining your floors will enhance their beauty and longevity. If your floors need professional attention, don’t hesitate to consult an expert to ensure the best results.
