Refinishing original hardwood often preserves character and value better than replacement. Modern methods - from dust-reducing sanding to low-VOC finishes - make restoration effective for structurally sound boards. Professionals reduce risk and deliver the best long-term results.
Decide whether to recoat or fully refinish by checking if wear reaches bare wood, the type of floor (solid vs engineered), and the finish you want. Modern options include dust-containment sanding and water-based polyurethanes.
A concise DIY guide to finishing or refinishing hardwood floors: plan the room, follow a grit sanding sequence, choose between water-based or oil-modified polyurethane, and allow proper drying and cure times.
Learn when to refinish hardwood floors, how to test your finish, differences between recoating and full refinishing, modern techniques, timeline, and current cost considerations.