Hardwood floors are a great addition to any home. They are durable, easy to care for and provide an exquisite finish. However, over time, they can become damaged or scratched. When your hardwood floors start to show wear and tear, it can be tough to decide what to do about them. Should you refinish the floors yourself or call in a flooring contractor? What if the damage is too extensive for refinishing? Is it better to repair the hardwood floor or replace it entirely? In this blog post, we will help you make the right decision for your floor.
Types of Hardwood Floor Damage
Several types of damage can occur to hardwood flooring. The most common types of damage include:
Surface Wear and Tear.
Over time, even quality hardwood flooring will start to show signs of wear and tear. The finish will become dull and scratched. The wood finish may also begin to fade in color.
Deep Scratches and Gouges.
Deep scratches and gouges are common types of damage that can occur in hardwood flooring. These types of damage can be caused by various things, such as pets, high heels, or furniture. Deep scratches and gouges can be very difficult to repair, and the damage can often be permanent.
Buckling and Warping.
Buckling occurs when your hardwood floor boards start to lift up from the subfloor. Warping happens when the boards warp or twist out of shape. Both buckling and warping are usually caused by water damage.
Water Damage and Rot.
Water damage is one of the most serious types of damage that can occur to hardwood floors. Water damage is usually caused by leaks or flooding. It can cause the boards to swell, warp, and rot.
How do you fix hardwood flooring?
There are three main options involved when it comes to restoring your hardwood flooring. These include:
Refinishing
To refinish hardwood floors, sand down the surface of the floor to remove the damaged finish. Once the floor is sanded, a new finish can be applied. Refinishing is an excellent option if your hardwood floors only have surface wear and tear.
Repairing
Repairing hardwood floors involves fixing any damage that has occurred to the boards or finishes. This can include replacing boards, filling in scratches and gouges, or sanding and refinishing the floor. Repairing is a good option if your wood flooring has minor damage.
Replacing
Replacing hardwood floors involves removing the damaged boards and installing new ones. This is usually only necessary if the damage to your floors is extensive, such as water damage or rot.
Should I refinish, repair, or replace?
The best option for your wood flooring depends on the type and severity of the damage.
If the damage is only surface wear and tear, refinishing is a great option. Some of the factors to consider when making your decision include:
1. Extent of Damage
The severity of the damage will play a big role in deciding between refinishing hardwood floors and replacing them. If the damage is only surface wear and tear, refinishing is a great option. However, if the damage is more extensive, such as water damage or rot, replacing the floors may be necessary.
2. Cost
Another factor to consider is cost. It will cost less to refinish your hardwood floors than to replace them. However, if the damage is extensive, repairing or even replacing the floors may be the more cost-effective option in the long run.
3. How long do you plan on staying in your home?
If you plan on selling your home in the near future, refinishing or repairing your hardwood floors may be a good option. This will help increase the value of your home. However, if you plan on staying in your home for many years, replacing the floors may be the best investment.
4. Age of the hardwood floors
The age of your wood floors will also play a role in deciding whether to refinish or replace them. Although wood flooring is known to be durable, it will eventually need to be replaced. If your floors are over 20 years old, replacing them may be the best option.
How much does it cost to fix hardwood floors?
The cost of fixing engineered hardwood floors depends on the extent of the damage and the chosen method of repair. For an accurate quote, call your local flooring contractors.
What are the benefits of an entire floor replacement?
The benefits of solid hardwood replacement include:
Increased Home Value.
Hardwood floors are known to increase the value of homes. Replacing your floors can help increase the value of your home, making it a great investment.
Improved Appearance.
Hardwood flooring can eventually start to show its age. Replacing your wood flooring can give your home a fresh, new look.
Increased Durability.
When you replace your hardwood floors, you have the opportunity to choose a more durable flooring option. This can help extend your floors’ life and reduce the maintenance required.
Contact the Professionals!
Whenever you feel like your existing hardwood floors are starting to show signs of wear and tear, or if you just want to get a second opinion, contact the professionals at Woodfloor Masters. We will be able to inspect your floors and help you decide whether refinishing, repairing, or new flooring replacement is the best option for you. We offer various Hardwood Floor Repair Vancouver, WA services, and our team of experts is always happy to help. Contact us today!