Hardwood floors are a long-term investment. Knowing when to refinish hardwood floors helps keep them looking their best. Here’s what to know.

Factors That Influence Refinishing

  • Type of Floor: Solid hardwood floors can handle multiple refinishes. Engineered wood may only allow one or two.
  • Traffic: High-traffic spots like hallways wear down faster.
  • Sunlight: Direct sun fades and damages wood over time.
  • Daily Wear: Pets, furniture, and daily use leave scratches and dents.

When to Refinish

🛠️ Water Test: Drop water on the floor. If it beads, the finish is intact. If it soaks in, refinishing is needed.

Most floors need refinishing every 7 to 10 years. Homes with pets or heavy traffic may need it every 3 to 5 years. Light-use areas can go 10 to 15 years.

Signs It’s Time

  • Scratches and Dents: Visible damage that’s hard to ignore.

  • Fading: The shine is gone, or the wood looks faded.

  • Water Damage: Stains or warped boards are noticeable.

  • Worn Areas: High-traffic areas have lost their protective coating.

🔨 DIY Wood Floor Fixing Tip: Sand and refinish small damaged areas instead of the whole floor. Use matching stain and finish for a seamless look. For step-by-step guidance, check out this blog on fixing wood floors.

Keeping Floors Looking Good

🏡 Pro Tip: Rugs can reduce wear and extend the time between refinishing.

Refinishing keeps hardwood floors strong and looking good. Pay attention to signs of wear, and refinish when needed. Whether you DIY or hire a pro, regular care keeps your floors beautiful for years. The best time to refinish your floors is to understand the unique requirements of your house and the variables that impact them.