When Should You Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Consider this: Hardwood floors are like shoes in your home. They are subjected to wear and tear on a daily basis. They need regular maintenance and occasional full care to keep them looking good. Hardwood floor refinishing is that full care. But when should it be done?

Explore our article if you want to know how often to refinish your floors.

Climate

Where you live matters. High humidity in summer can mess with the finish. Dry air in winter might make the wood crack. Spring and fall tend to offer better balance.

Floor Condition

Look at your floors. Are they scuffed and dull, or deeply scratched? Light wear means an easier job. Deeper damage needs more work: sanding down to bare wood and applying multiple coats.

Timing for You

What’s your schedule like? Are you busy with work or holidays? Refinishing disrupts your space. And it can take anywhere from 2 to 5 days. Pick a time when it’s less hectic.

Seasons: The Breakdown

Spring

  1. Mild weather helps. Less humidity means a smoother finish.
  2. Spring cleaning might make it a natural time to tackle the floors.
  3. But pollen can settle on wet surfaces. Watch for that.

Summer

  1. Warm air speeds up drying.
  2. Long days mean more daylight to work by.
  3. But high humidity can ruin the process. Plus, it’s hot.

Fall

  1. Cool air and low humidity are your friends.
  2. Contractors often have more availability after the summer rush.
  3. Watch out for falling leaves sneaking inside.

Winter

  1. Dry air keeps the wood from absorbing moisture.
  2. Holidays might give you a natural break to focus on the project.
  3. But cold temps can make the work tough, and dry air might crack the wood if it’s too extreme.

What’s Best for You?

Start by considering your free time. Refinishing is disruptive, so choose a period when you can dedicate at least a few days without major distractions. Next, check the humidity in your area—use a hygrometer to measure it. Ideal humidity levels for refinishing are between 35% and 50%, as this prevents the wood from expanding or contracting excessively. Spring and fall often offer these conditions, but always verify.

📌 Manufacturer Tip: Check with your hardwood floor manufacturer for the ideal humidity range for your specific flooring—this is often included in product guidelines or support materials.

If you live in a very humid area, avoid summer, or use a dehumidifier to create a stable environment. In winter, add a humidifier if the air becomes too dry, as overly dry conditions can crack the wood or cause uneven finishes. Ultimately, aim for a season where you have free time and the climate supports a smooth refinishing process. For most, spring or fall are the best choices.