Is Refinishing Hardwood Floors Worth It?

When deciding whether or not to refinish your hardwood floors, there are several things to consider. One of the biggest factors that will determine the cost is the floor's condition. Also, consider whether your floor is exposed to water and damage from pets. If the latter is the case, refinishing may not be the best choice.

Either way, refinsihed hardwood floors can boost resale value of a home and work wonders in upgrading a living space or dining room.

Cost of refinishing hardwood floors

The cost of refinishing hardwood floors depends on a few factors. The size of the space and the material used are key factors. Larger rooms will cost more per square foot. In addition, contractors need a larger space to maneuver their heavy equipment. Small rooms can't accommodate hardwood floor sanding equipment. They may also need the assistance of a specialist who is skilled in sanding small rooms.

Materials, supplies, and labor cost will differ by region. In areas with high cost of living, the cost of refinishing services will be higher than in other areas. Labor costs make up the majority of the overall cost. The labor costs can vary even between different companies in the same city or state. For example, if you need a very large refinishing job, you can expect to pay more.

Refinishing hardwood floors can be an affordable way to add a fresh look to your home. It includes preparation, sanding, staining, and applying a finish. You can request an estimate from a local flooring professional and compare prices before hiring a company. On average, a professional will charge you between $1,500 and $4,000 per square foot.

Can minimize pet urine and water marks

Pets can leave unpleasant stains on hardwood floors. Luckily, there are ways to minimize their impact without having to replace the entire floor. The uric salt in pet urine causes stains and odors, and this substance can damage the wood's tannins. However, it is not always possible to remove stains with regular cleaning or sanding. Here are some common scenarios and mitigation options:

First, you can use hydrogen peroxide to remove the pet urine stains. This cleaning solution is commonly found in households. Its strength is typically 3 percent. Higher concentrations require you to dilute it with water. You should make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle, as you might need several applications of the solution.

Next, you should avoid letting your pet's urine sit on the floor for long periods of time. This will prevent warping. Moreover, you can apply baking soda to the affected area to absorb the odor.

Can minimize splinters

Refinishing hardwood floors is a great way to minimize the risk of splinters. The process will remove the rough surface and buff it down. This will also seal against further damage. The refinished surface will also be safe for barefoot walking. However, there are some precautions you should follow when refinishing hardwood floors.

When refinishing hardwood floors, you should carefully inspect and remove any splinters before applying any glue. First, make sure that you remove the loose splinters with dental floss. Next, clean the floor underneath with a damp cloth. If you see any missing wood, use wood filler, which can be found in any hardware store. After the wood filler dries, you can sand the area.

If you're not up to the task, call upon the help of a local floor expert near you.

The finish of your hardwood floors will wear off over time. The boards are more sensitive to changes in humidity or temperature. When you step on a wooden floor, they may shift, causing the boards to rub against each other. This can result in large chips and peeled areas. If you suspect that your hardwood floors have splinters, it's best to get them repaired immediately.