Hardwood floors are renowned for their classic elegance and durability, but even the sturdiest floors can show signs of wear and tear over time. Scratches, dents, and fading finishes can detract from the beauty of your hardwood. Fortunately, the hardwood refinishing process can breathe new life into your floors, restoring their original luster and charm.
The need for wood floor refinishing
Hardwood floors typically need refinishing every 7-10 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If you notice significant scratches, discoloration, or a dull finish, it's likely time to consider refinishing. Hardwood refinishing not only enhances the appearance of your floor but also protects it from further damage.
The hardwood refinishing process step-by-step
- Preparation: The first step involves removing furniture, rugs, and any other obstructions from the room. Baseboards and trim are also typically removed or protected to ensure a seamless refinishing process.
- Sanding: The core of the wood floor refinishing process involves sanding the floor to remove the existing finish and any surface imperfections. A drum sander is used for the main floor areas, while an edger tackles corners and edges. Sanding progresses through different grits, starting with a coarser grit to remove the old finish and scratches and finishing with a finer grit for a smooth surface.
- Cleaning: Thorough cleaning is crucial after sanding to remove all dust and debris. This ensures a pristine surface for the new finish to adhere properly.
- Staining (optional): If you desire a color change or to enhance the natural wood tones, staining is the next step. A variety of stain colors are available to complement your interior design style.
- Applying the finish: The final step involves applying the protective finish. Popular choices include polyurethane, oil-based finishes, and water-based finishes. Multiple coats are typically applied, with light sanding between coats for optimal adhesion and a smooth finish.
- Curing and final touches: The finish needs adequate time to cure fully, which can vary depending on the type of finish used. Once cured, the baseboards and trim are reinstalled, and furniture can be carefully moved back in.
Professional vs. DIY
While hardwood refinishing could be possible as a DIY project, it's a labor-intensive process that requires specialized equipment and experience. Hiring a professional flooring contractor ensures optimal results and saves you time and effort. Professionals have the expertise to handle any unforeseen challenges and ensure a flawless refinished floor.
Extending the life of your refinished floor
Once your floors are beautifully refinished, proper care and maintenance are crucial to preserve their luster. Regular sweeping and vacuuming, using furniture pads, and avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals will help protect your investment and extend the life of your refinished hardwood floors.
Your experts on wood floor refinishing in Franklin, TN
The hardwood refinishing process is a remarkable transformation that can rejuvenate your home and add value to your property. With the expertise of a professional, you can enjoy stunning hardwood floors for many years to come.
Reach out to Corlew and Perry for your refinishing needs. Our showroom in Franklin, TN, serves Brentwood, TN, Franklin, TN, Nashville, TN, Spring Hill, TN, and Columbia, TN.
