Specializing in Perfection Since 1984

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Should I Refinish or Replace My Hardwood Floors?

If your existing hardwood floors are structurally sound and have enough usable wood remaining, refinishing is often a better and more affordable option than replacing them. Scratches, discoloration, worn finishes and even certain types of damage can often be repaired. However, floors with extensive structural damage, severe deterioration or insufficient wood thickness may need replacement.

At Only Wood Floors, we've specialized in hardwood flooring restoration, repair and refinishing since 1984. We've seen homeowners consider replacing beautiful original hardwood floors that could have been restored instead.

Watch: Should You Refinish or Replace Your Hardwood Floors?

When Should You Refinish Your Hardwood Floors?

Refinishing may be the best choice when:

Your hardwood floors are scratched, dull or worn.
The finish has turned orange or amber over time.
You want to change the stain color.
The floor has enough usable wood remaining for sanding.
Individual damaged boards can be repaired or replaced.
You want to preserve the character of your original hardwood flooring.

We carefully sand hardwood floors using multiple grades of sandpaper to remove old finishes and imperfections without unnecessarily removing good wood.

When Should You Replace Hardwood Floors?

The flooring has been sanded too many times.

Extensive water damage has compromised the wood or supporting structure.
Large sections are severely deteriorated.
The floor cannot be repaired safely or economically.
The homeowner wants an entirely different flooring material or installation.

Every floor is different. That's why we evaluate the condition of the existing wood before recommending replacement.

Can Damaged Hardwood Floors Be Repaired?

Absolutely. In many cases, we can replace individual boards, repair localized damage and refinish the surrounding flooring.

We've restored hardwood floors with pet damage, water damage, termite damage, broken boards and decades of wear.

Not every repair will be invisible, especially when matching older wood or factory-finished flooring. Our goal is to preserve as much of the existing floor as practical while providing a durable, attractive result.

Is Refinishing Hardwood Floors Cheaper Than Replacing Them?

In many cases, yes.

Refinishing allows you to keep the hardwood flooring you already own instead of paying to remove it, dispose of it and install new flooring.

For current refinishing prices, visit our Hardwood Floor Refinishing Pricing page.

The best option depends on the condition of your floors, the repairs needed and the overall cost of each approach.

How Does Only Wood Floors Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Our typical refinishing process includes:

Inspecting the existing hardwood flooring.
Making necessary repairs.
Sanding through multiple grades of sandpaper.
Filling appropriate cracks and gaps.
Preparing the floor for natural or stained finishing.
Applying three coats of commercial-grade polyurethane.

Our goal is to bring out the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

>> Can 50- or 100-year-old hardwood floors be refinished?

Yes, many can. Age alone does not determine whether a floor can be refinished. Wood thickness, structural condition and previous sanding are more important.

>> Can hardwood floors be refinished more than once?

Yes, depending on the type and thickness of the wood and how much material has already been removed.

>> Can I change the color of my hardwood floors without replacing them?

Often, yes. Sanding can remove the existing finish and stain, allowing a new color or natural finish, depending on the wood species and condition.

>> Can engineered hardwood floors be refinished?

Some can, depending on the thickness of the real wood wear layer and the floor's condition. Learn more: Can Engineered Hardwood Floors Be Refinished?