While hardwood floors are known for their beauty and timeless appeal, even the highest quality and durable hardwoods show signs of wear and tear overtime. The good news is that you don’t need to budget or plan for a full hardwood floor replacement just yet.

Hardwood refinishing in Calgary is often a more economical and practical option. Let’s explore the benefits of hardwood refinishing and whether the investment is right for your space.

The Benefits of Refinishing Hardwood Floors

• Lower Cost - Most people opt for hardwood refinishing because it is significantly less expensive than a complete floor replacement. You can refresh your space and achieve a like-new appearance for a fraction of the cost
• You Preserve Your Existing Floors - For older homes and buildings, it’s tough to let go of the original hardwood floors the property was built with. Vintage flooring is often an attractive feature, which raises the property value and creates a certain aesthetic appeal. Hardwood refinishing is a great way to preserve the existing floors you love while giving the space a fresh, updated feel.
• Saves Time With Fewer Disruptions - Hardwood refinishing in Calgary is typically quicker than a full replacement. A complete installation can take several days or weeks while refinishing generally takes a few days, depending on the size of the area. Whether you have a busy home or need to keep business operations running, refinishing is a great option that won’t leave you with too many disruptions.
• Sustainability - Refinishing reduces waste and demand for new materials, which contributes to a more eco-friendly approach to home or commercial space improvement.
• Improved Durability - It’s a common misconception that the only way to achieve a full floor restoration is with a complete replacement. Hardwood refinishing involves applying a new protective finish, which can help guard against scratches, stains, and wear. Refinishing your floors not only refreshes their appearance but also reinforces their durability.

The Process of Hardwood Refinishing

If your floors are fading, looking dull, and losing their natural charm, hardwood refinishing can breathe new life back into your space. The process not only restores the original lustre of the wood but also allows for customization.

The process of hardwood refinishing typically involves:

• Inspection to assess the condition of the floors for signs of damage.
• Clearing the area and removing furniture, rugs, and other items.
• Thoroughly cleaning the floors to remove dust and debris. A clean surface prepares the surface for sanding.
• Sanding to achieve an even surface, a uniform finish, and a smooth finish. This step involves a series of rough and fine-grit sandpaper to prepare the surface for staining and finishing.
• Vacuum and clean the floors after sanding.
• Apply stain (optional) if you’d like to change the colour of your floors.
• Drying time before applying the finish. This step can take several hours to a day, depending on the humidity and temperature.
• Apply a protective finish, such as a polyurethane, oil-based, or water-based product.
• Curing time, which can take several days before you can use your floor, to ensure the best durability and longevity.

Is Hardwood Refinishing the Right Investment For You?

Although hardwood refinishing in Calgary offers incredible benefits, it might not always be the right option. Some properties will benefit more and even save on costs in the long term with a full replacement. Some signs you may need a new floor include:

• Deep scratches and gouges
• Severe cupping or warping that indicates moisture issues or damage
• Rot or mold that indicates extensive water damage
• Stability and structural issues
• Thinning hardwood after multiple refinishes

To learn more, read about the Top Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Home’s Flooring. If you’re unsure, consulting with a flooring professional can provide valuable insight to help you make an informed decision.

Your floors deserve the best care and with professional hardwood refinishing, you can achieve a beautiful finish you can be proud of that’s worth every penny!