Refinishing Hardwood Floors: How to Determine if It's Time

Hardwood floors add warmth and character to a home, but years of foot traffic, scratches, and wear can leave them looking dull and damaged. If your floors are showing their age, don’t wait—refinishing them sooner rather than later can prevent deeper damage and save you money in the long run.

Are Your Hardwood Floors Worth Saving?

Before deciding on a full replacement, it’s important to determine whether your floors can be restored. Many solid hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times, but there are a few key factors to consider:

Deep Scratches & Gouges – Minor scratches are normal, but deep ones may require more sanding and filling.
Water Damage – Warped or rotted boards may need to be replaced.
Staining & Discoloration – Some stains can be sanded out, but severe damage may be permanent.
Thickness of the Wood – The amount of wood left above the tongue-and-groove will determine whether refinishing is an option.

Not sure if your floors are salvageable? Call us! Our experts can assess your floors and help you decide whether refinishing is the right choice.

How to Determine the Thickness of Your Floor

Refinishing hardwood floors requires sanding, which removes a thin layer of wood. If your floors have been refinished multiple times, they may not have enough thickness left for another round.

Here’s how to check:

Look at a Floor Vent or Stair Nose – If you can see the exposed edge of the wood, you can measure how much material is left.
Check for Nail Heads – If nails are close to the surface, the floor may be too thin to sand.
Call a Professional – We can determine if your floors are thick enough for another refinishing.

Choosing the Right Stain and Sheen for Your Hardwood Floors

Once your floors are ready for refinishing, choosing the right stain, colour, and sheen is crucial to achieving the look you want. Here’s what you should consider:

Stain Colour – Hardwood floors can be stained in a variety of tones, from light natural shades to rich, dark hues. A lighter stain highlights the natural grain and creates a more airy, spacious feel, while a darker stain adds warmth and elegance. You can also opt for custom colors or even try a gray or whitewash finish for a more contemporary look.
Shade Consistency – Some stains provide a more uniform, consistent shade, while others accentuate the natural imperfections and grain patterns of the wood, giving your floors a unique, organic look.
Sheen Level – The sheen you choose impacts the overall appearance and feel of your floors. Options range from:
- Matte or Satin – These offer a subtle, low-gloss finish that emphasizes the natural beauty of the wood without drawing too much attention.
- Semi-Gloss – Gives a more reflective surface that’s easy to clean and provides a nice balance of shine and warmth.
- High Gloss – Creates a shiny, smooth surface that enhances the richness of darker stains but may show more scratches and dust over time. (Only available through special order.)

The best stain, colour, and sheen for your hardwood floors depend on your personal taste, the overall style of your home, and your lifestyle needs. Need guidance on choosing the perfect combination for your space? We’re here to help!

Why Refinish Sooner Rather Than Later?

Prevent Deep Damage – Scratches and wear can expose raw wood, leading to costly repairs.
Increase Home Value – Well-maintained hardwood floors add significant value to your home.
Avoid Replacement Costs – Refinishing is often far more affordable than replacing your floors.
Keep Your Floors Looking Their Best – A fresh finish brings back the beauty of your hardwood.