Timber floors are undoubtedly one of the most attractive ways you can choose to decorate your home, as they provide a very rustic feel that harkens back to millennia of different builders who all used wood as well. Wood is also one of the stronger flooring options, as it survives much better than carpet and linoleum, and it is far more comfortable underfoot than tile. However, wood does pick up all kinds of different battle scars from its years of usage, and occasionally you will need to use a refinishing service to make sure that your timber floors look good as new.

The Signs Of Ageing Wood Floors

You will be a better judge than anyone when it is time to refinish your hardwood floors, as you live and walk all over them every day. Any sort of scuffing on the floor that won't come out, scratches, grooves, cracking, stains, spots, and whatever other imperfection you can dream of can be removed through refinishing. However, the quicker you act, the less likely this top layer of damage will seep through the timber and start to affect some of the lower levels. That means acting quickly gives you the best chance of success in the long term.

What Is Involved In Refinishing?

Wood is sort of like an onion in that when the top layer gets old and dirty, you can remove it to show off a brand new, much more appealing layer underneath. To remove the top layer on the timber you simply need the right tools, from sanding equipment to the right lacquer and sealant to place on top after you are done. Only a very fine amount of the wood is removed, but that is enough to make it look completely brand new. That is why you can refinish hardwood floors time and time again with no danger to the structural integrity.

Does It Work The Same On All Timber?

Virtually all timber can be refinished as long as it is real hardwood. Engineered timber planks do not work the same as they only contain a small amount of wood on the surface layer. Refinishing wood can get rid of a lot of surface imperfections, which makes it more useful for inside areas where there is a lot of foot traffic. For outdoor decks, it can still be useful, but you are more likely to get a quick result from high-pressure water cleaning, as deep-seated dirt is more likely to be your issue there. 

If you'd like to refinish hardwood floors in your home, contact a contractor in your area.