Can You Refinish Engineered Hardwood Floors? Short Answer.
Is it possible to refinish engineered hardwood floors? This might be the most commonly asked questions regarding flooring. Yes, in a straightforward way, but before you pick up a floor sander, there are important considerations to make. Everything you need to know about refinishing engineered hardwood flooring will be covered in this post.
Flooring Made of Engineered Hardwood
To prevent more problems throughout the restoration process, it is essential to comprehend what engineered hardwood flooring is and what materials go into it before beginning. In contrast to solid hardwood, engineered hardwood is comprised of two main parts: a thin veneer of natural wood placed on top of a base layer formed of plywood or a comparable substance. Because of its layered composition, which eliminates warping and offers strength, engineered hardwood is a popular option for a number of places, including kitchens and basements.
The Importance of Wear Layer Thickness
The wear layer’s thickness is a crucial component that influences the capacity to refinish engineered hardwood floors. The thickness of the wear layer can typically vary from 3 to 7 mm. The sanding step of the floor refinishing procedure usually removes about 1mm of this layer. To prevent jeopardizing the integrity of the flooring, it is crucial to understand the thickness of the wear layer on your floor.
Here’s a breakdown of how many times you can refinish engineered hardwood based on the wear layer’s thickness:
- 3mm: Can be refinished twice
- 4mm: Can be refinished three times
- 5mm: Can be refinished four times
- 6mm: Can be refinished five times
- 7mm: Can be refinished six times
Because you want to conserve at least 1mm of the top layer in order to maintain the quality of the floor, this pattern shows that the number of refinishes that are achievable is always one less than the thickness of the wear layer.
The Refinishing Process Explained
Refinishing engineered hardwood floors typically involves several key steps:
- Preparation: Clear the area of furniture and any items on the floor to ensure a smooth workflow.
- Sanding: Use an appropriate sander to remove the existing finish and prepare the surface for refinishing. This step is critical, as excessive sanding can damage the wear layer.
- Cleaning: After sanding, thoroughly vacuum the area to eliminate dust, and wipe down the floor with a damp cloth to catch any residual particles.
- Staining: If you wish to change the color of your floors, apply a stain before sealing. Choose a stain that complements your home’s aesthetic.
- Sealing: Finally, apply a protective finish. It’s advisable to use multiple coats for durability, ensuring each layer dries completely before applying the next.
Considerations Before Refinishing
Before proceeding with the refinishing of engineered hardwood floors, consider a few important aspects:
- Loss of Textures and Finishes: Any distinctive finishes or textures that add to the character of the floor, like wire brushing or hand scraping, will probably be removed by sanding..
- Micro-Beveling: The margins of the boards on many engineered hardwood floors feature a micro-bevel. Any differences in height across the boards are less noticeable because to this design. This bevel can be lessened or eliminated with sanding, which could change the flooring’s overall look. This might be a good thing or a bad one, depending on your taste in art.
DIY or Professional Assistance?
Although refinishing engineered hardwood floors can be a satisfying do-it-yourself effort, hiring an expert can help you save time and reduce the possibility of mistakes. Professionals have the know-how and resources needed to provide the best outcomes. They can also assist you in avoiding typical hazards that could arise while working on a do-it-yourself project.
Hiring an expert flooring contractor can be a wise investment if you’re unsure about taking on the refinishing process yourself. A specialist can help you with every step of the procedure, from determining the right finishes and stains to evaluating the state of the floor.
Examining Staining Alternatives
The stain selection for refinishing engineered hardwood can have a big impact on how the piece turns out. Because stains are available in a range of hues, homeowners can get the desired look. For example, you may use a diluted wash to tone down any yellow undertones if you want a lighter, more natural wood effect.
Before applying a stain on a larger surface, it is crucial to test it on a tiny section of the floor to observe how it interacts with the wood. It’s important to keep in mind that after the finish is done, the final color may appear differently, so testing might help you prevent surprises.
Benefits of Refinishing Engineered Hardwood Floors
Refinishing your engineered hardwood floors gives them a new lease on life and increases their longevity. You may improve the overall aesthetics of your home and change the appearance of your flooring by taking care of dents, scratches, and discolorations. This procedure is particularly helpful for homeowners who adore the original floors but prefer a change color or finish.
Final Thoughts
In summary, engineered hardwood floors can be refinished, but the process’s viability and result depend on a number of variables. A successful refinishing project requires an understanding of the significance of wear layer thickness, the possibility of losing textures, and whether to go for expert assistance or do it yourself.