How to Refinish Wood Floors
How to Refinish Wood Floors
Wood floors can make your home look warm and beautiful. But after years of people walking on them, moving furniture, and spills, the wood can get dull or scratched. Instead of replacing the floor, you can fix it with wood floor refinishing. This process makes your old floor look new again.
Before you begin, it’s a good idea to make sure your floors are in good condition underneath. If there’s any water damage or musty smells, you should get a mold inspection first. A trusted company like PureClean Mold Inspection can check for hidden mold and help you keep your home safe and healthy.
Is It Worth It to Refinish Wood Floors?
Yes! Wood floor refinishing is worth it for many reasons.
Saving Money & Increasing Home Value
Refinishing costs less than tearing out and replacing your floors. Plus, smooth, shiny wood floors can help raise your home’s value when you sell it.
Strengthening Your Floors
Scratches and stains make your floors weaker. Refinishing adds a strong layer of protection that helps them last longer and look better.
Simplifying Cleaning and Improving Air Quality
When your floors are worn out, they can trap dust, dirt, and allergens. Refinishing gives you a smooth surface that’s easier to sweep and mop. If your home has any signs of mold, it’s important to get a mold inspection before starting. PureClean Mold Inspection can help make sure your air stays fresh and clean.
How Long Does It Take to Refinish Hardwood Floors?
Most refinishing jobs take 3 to 5 days. Here’s what happens during that time:
- Day 1: Clean the floor and start sanding.
- Day 2: Finish sanding and clean the dust.
- Day 3: Apply the first coat of finish.
- Day 4–5: Let the finish dry completely.
Some finishes dry faster than others. You may need to stay off the floors or even out of the house during this time.
How to Refinish Hardwood Floors
Wood floor refinishing includes a few main steps:
- Clean the floors: Use a special hardwood floor cleaner.
- Sand the floors: A big sanding machine removes the old finish.
- Vacuum and wipe: Get rid of all dust and dirt.
- Apply the new finish: This could be a stain or clear coat.
- Let it dry: This may take a day or two.
If the job sounds hard, don’t worry. Many people hire professionals to do it right.
Skip the Hassle and Ensure Stunning Hardwood Floor Refinishing Results
Doing it yourself can be tricky. You might miss spots or leave marks. Professionals have the tools and skills to do the job perfectly. They’ll also know how to check for damage or moisture under the floor.
Before starting, ask for a mold inspection, especially in damp areas like basements or bathrooms. PureClean Mold Inspection will check for hidden mold that could ruin your floors later. Fixing mold before refinishing keeps your floors strong and your home safe.
FAQs About Wood Floor Refinishing
How much does wood floor refinishing cost?
It usually costs $3 to $8 per square foot. The price depends on the size of the room and the type of finish you want.
How long does wood floor refinishing take?
It takes about 3 to 5 days to clean, sand, apply the finish, and let it dry.
Can I walk on the floors right after they’re refinished?
No. You should wait at least 24 hours before walking on them and 48 to 72 hours before moving furniture back.
What kind of finish should I use?
You can choose between:
- Water-based finish: Dries faster, low odor.
- Oil-based finish: Takes longer to dry but lasts longer.
Should I get a mold inspection before refinishing?
Yes! If you see dark spots, smell mustiness, or had water damage, get a mold inspection before refinishing. PureClean Mold Inspection will check hidden areas and give you peace of mind.