Due to its remarkable durability and aesthetic appeal, engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners. However, over time, even the most well-maintained floors can show signs of wear and tear. This often leads people to wonder if they can refinish engineered hardwood floors to restore their original beauty.
Understanding engineered hardwood
Before diving into the question of hardwood refinishing, it's crucial to understand the structure of engineered hardwood. Unlike solid hardwood, which is a lone piece of wood, engineered hardwood consists of multiple layers. The top layer is a thin veneer of real hardwood, while the core layers are typically made of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF).
The thickness of the veneer determines whether or not you can refinish engineered hardwood.
Generally, engineered hardwood with a veneer of 2mm or thicker can be refinished once or twice, depending on the overall wear and tear. Thinner veneers might not withstand the sanding process involved in refinishing.
The wood floor refinishing process
Refinishing engineered hardwood involves sanding down the top layer to remove scratches, dents, and other imperfections. The floor is then stained and sealed to protect it from future damage. It's a meticulous process that should ideally be done by a professional flooring contractor.
Attempting to refinish engineered hardwood yourself without proper experience and equipment can lead to irreversible damage to your floors. Sanding too deeply can expose the core layers, compromising the structural integrity of the planks.
Benefits of hardwood floor refinishing
Refinishing engineered hardwood floors offers several benefits:
- Restored beauty: Hardwood refinishing removes surface imperfections, giving your floors a fresh, new look.
- Increased lifespan: By addressing wear and tear, wood floor refinishing can significantly extend the life of your floors.
- Enhanced value: Well-maintained floors can increase the resale value of your home.
Alternatives to hardwood refinishing
If your engineered hardwood has a thin veneer or is severely damaged, refinishing might not be an option. In such cases, you might consider alternatives like:
- Recoating: This involves applying a new layer of finish to protect the existing surface. It's a less invasive and more affordable option than hardwood floor refinishing.
- Replacing damaged planks: If only a few planks are damaged, you can replace them individually without having to redo the entire floor.
- Installing new flooring: If your floors are beyond repair, installing new engineered hardwood might be the best long-term solution.
Reach out to us for your hardwood floor refinishing needs
Refinishing engineered hardwood flooring can be a great way to breathe new life into your floors. However, it's crucial to assess the thickness of the veneer and the overall condition of your floors before proceeding.
If you're unsure whether hardwood refinishing is suitable for your floors, reach out to Corlew and Perry. Remember, routine care and maintenance can go a long way in preserving the stunning beauty and longevity of your engineered hardwood floors. Our showroom in Nashville, TN, serves Nashville, Brentwood, and Franklin, TN.
