When your hardwood floors start looking dull or worn, you might wonder whether they need a recoat or a refinish. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to two very different processes.
A recoat is a maintenance procedure that refreshes the top layer of finish without sanding down the wood itself. It involves lightly abrading the existing finish and applying a new coat of polyurethane. This is ideal if your floor has minor surface scratches or wear but no deep damage or exposed wood. A recoat is quicker, more affordable, and helps extend the life of your floors without the mess of a full sanding.
A refinish, on the other hand, is a more intensive process that involves sanding the floor down to bare wood and applying a new stain and finish. This is necessary when floors have deep scratches, discoloration, or worn-through finish. Refinishing restores the floor’s original beauty and allows for color changes, but it requires more time and labor.
Not sure which option is best for your floors? If the finish is intact but looks dull, a recoat is probably enough. If you see raw wood or heavy wear, refinishing is the way to go. Either way, regular care keeps your hardwood floors looking their best for years to come.
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