How can you tell when you need to replace your hardwood floors instead of refinishing them?
One of the major advantages of installing hardwood floors is that they last for years, especially when properly maintained. Another attractive benefit of hardwood flooring is that it can be refinished. If there are any scratches or other imperfections, refinishing your floors can make them look brand new again. However, at some point, there will come a time when refinishing is no longer the solution. But, how can you tell when you need to replace your hardwood floors instead of refinishing them? Here are a few signs to be aware
of.
Multiple Refinishing Jobs
If you have had your hardwood floors for a while, you have most likely had them refinished several times. While refinishing is a quick and easy way to add some shine to your floors. Eventually, it won’t be enough to save your floors. Too much sanding can wear down the floorboards until they are too thin. When you refinish hardwood too many times, it becomes less structurally sound and more likely to crack. After a few refinishes, it is a good idea to get a full replacement.
Large Gaps Between Boards
Wood absorbs and retains moisture in the surrounding environment. Meaning, when humidity levels change throughout the year, it will cause your hardwood floors to expand and contract. However, a normal amount of movement won’t damage your floor’s appearance or structural integrity. On the other hand, if there are large, irregular gaps in between boards in your floors, it might be beyond repair and require a complete floor replacement.
Water Damage
Water is the enemy of hardwood floors. Engineered hardwood may be more durable against water damage than solid hardwood, but they both are susceptible to warping and cracking. If you just have the occasional spill, a good sealant will protect your floor, but some severe damage can happen to your floor if you experience a flood or plumbing issues in your home. Water damage often leads to the wood warping or separating, and a refinish won’t solve this problem. This makes water damage one of the most crucial signs that it’s time to replace your hardwood floors.
Hardwood Flooring from Jason Brown Wood Floors
At Jason Brown Wood Floors, our commitment to quality installation is clear in all that we do, which is why our customers consistently rate us as one of the top contractors in the region. We have been awarded Baltimore Magazine’s Best of Baltimore Award 4 times and have been proudly serving the Baltimore Area for over 16 years. If you’re ready to speak with someone about your hardwood flooring project, we want to hear from you! Contact us at 410-668-9131 or send us a message here.
Jason Brown Wood Floors is also your convenient dealer of high-quality, professional grade power tools. We offer brands that tradespeople trust most for the job. Come check out our Abingdon showroom to browse the in-stock selection of products and tools by Festool, Freud, Diablo, Shaper, Mirka, Makita, Saw Stop , and Grex
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