When your hardwood floors start looking dull, scratched, or uneven, the big question comes up: Should you refinish them or replace them entirely? If you’re planning to sell your home—or you want to protect your long-term investment—this choice matters. When considering hardwood refinishing vs replacement, both offer benefits, but they also add value in different ways.
Floor Trendz is here to break down everything you need to know so you can choose the option that makes the most sense for your home, your budget, and your future plans.
Refinishing
Refinishing is often the first option homeowners consider because it brings floors back to life without the high price tag of a full replacement. It’s an affordable way to erase scratches, dullness, and surface damage while keeping the character of your original floors intact!
Why refinishing might be your best option
Refinishing works well when your floors still have good structural integrity. If the planks aren’t warped, cracked, or severely damaged, refinishing can make your floors look brand-new again.
You can update the stain, refresh the finish, and give your space a modern look without removing a single plank. It’s also faster and cleaner than a full replacement, especially with dustless refinishing options now available.
How refinishing affects resale value
Buyers love move-in-ready homes, and refinished hardwood delivers exactly that.
Freshly refinished floors look clean, updated, and well-cared for—three things that instantly boost buyer confidence.
Because refinishing is cost-effective, the return on investment is surprisingly strong. Homeowners often recoup most, if not all, of the refinishing cost in resale value.
If your floors are still in good shape, refinishing usually gives the best bang for your buck.
Replacing
Replacing your floors is a bigger commitment, but it can be the right choice in certain situations. If your flooring is severely damaged, uneven, soft, or has been refinished too many times, replacement may yield better long-term results.
Why replacing might be the right choice
Replacement allows you to choose a new style, wood species, or plank size—perfect if you’re planning a larger renovation. If your floors have structural issues, water damage, or major wear, replacement gives you a clean slate with a longer lifespan.
New hardwood floors are often more durable, more stable, and more stylish, which can appeal to today’s homebuyers.
How replacing affects resale value
Brand new hardwood floors are a strong selling feature.
Many buyers are willing to pay more for homes with new, modern flooring—especially wide-plank and natural-tone hardwoods.
While replacement is more expensive upfront, it can increase your home’s market value and attract higher offers, especially in competitive neighbourhoods.
So, Which Option is Right for You?
When deciding between hardwood refinishing vs. replacing, think about the current condition of your floors, your budget, and your long-term plans.
Choose refinishing if:
- Your floors are scratched, dull, or lightly worn
- The boards are still solid and flat
- You're looking for the most cost-effective upgrade
- You want a refreshed look without a major renovation
Choose replacing if:
- Your floors have deep damage or structural issues
- They have already been refinished several times
- You want to change the style or wood type
- You’re planning a full home renovation and want everything updated
Both options increase resale value, but refinishing generally offers the highest return if your floors are still in good shape. Replacement is best when you need durability, longevity, and a complete design upgrade.
Still Not Sure? Floor Trendz Can Help
If you want expert advice on what’s best for your home, our expert team at Floor Trendz is here to help! We’ll take the time to understand your goals, your budget, and the condition of your floors before recommending the right solution. You’ll also have access to our in-house interior designer, who can guide you through colours, finishes, and style choices to ensure your floors look perfect in your space.
Contact us today!