We come across this question numerous times — should I add a new polyurethane coat or refinish my hardwood floors? Before spending hours researching or even trying to do either task, we’ve done the work for you. Keep scrolling to learn what the difference between recoating and refinishing is as well as if you can do either on your own.
When Should I Recoat My Floors?
Recoating your floors with polyurethane should happen about every three to five years or when you notice that areas have light scratches, scuffs or fading. When you recoat your hardwood, you have giving it additional life. Floors that go through a recoat every few years require fewer refinishing jobs in the future than floors that are not. Plus, polyurethane coating is also more affordable than refinishing your floors. However, there is one thing you must remember: you can only recoat your hardwood floors with polyurethane if there is existing polyurethane already applied. If there is a wax coating, you will need to refinish your floors instead.
Can I Recoat On My Own?
You can recoat on your own, but we do not recommend it. Since you are trying to remove minor scratches, scuffs, dents and stains, you do not have to put as much force into coating your floors. Just like refinishing, you still have to sand your hardwood floors. However, it is only light sanding. Once you finish sanding, you then need to apply the new polyurethane coat. The task itself will take you about a day to complete (depending on how much hardwood you have). And, you can walk on your floors a few hours after it dries. We recommend waiting a day to ensure that the new coat is completely dry.
When Should I Refinish My Hardwood Floors?
Hardwood floor refinishing can last more than five years, depending on how well you maintain them. Floors that handle excessive foot traffic, sunlight or exposure to animals, children and other high-impact activities can lose their luster extremely fast. If you notice deep scratches, stains, fading, scuffs or dents, the only way to get rid of them is through refinishing. Here are some tips to help your finish last for many years: use a matte finish if you have children or pets, use a satin finish if you live alone or do not have a lot of foot traffic, properly clean your floors daily, use curtains or blinds when you do not need natural lighting and always clean spills and messes right after they happen.
Can I Refinish On My Own?
Just like recoating, you can do it on your own, but we highly recommend working with a team of skilled experts to get the job done. Refinishing your floors is not as fast or simple as a new coat of polyurethane. Since you are trying to rid your floors of deep scratches, dents, stains, scuffs and old finish, you will need to take more time and force to sand your floors down. In fact, you even need specific equipment to get the job done. You must also know the best type of refinishing you should use, how to apply it and how long it will take to dry. Unfortunately, we have heard more horror stories over successful ones when DIYers try to refinish their floors themselves. Do not let this situation happen to you. Instead, work with a team of professionals who know how to properly refinish your floors.
Are you looking for the right team in Belleville, O’Fallon, Edwardsville or the surrounding areas? Then, look no further than Valor Home Services. Our team of skilled experts has been refinishing floors as well as other handyman services for over 20 years. To learn more information, visit our free resources page, or to schedule a consultation, give us a call today.
