Key takeaways
- Dull, worn traffic lanes mean the finish is thinning.
- Scratches that reach bare wood need sanding, not just recoating.
- The water drop test shows if finish is intact.
- Check wear layer thickness before refinishing engineered floors.
The water drop test
Put a few drops of water on the floor. If they bead up, the finish is intact. If they soak in or darken the wood in a minute, the finish has worn through in that area.
Test several places, especially in traffic lanes.
Visual signs
Gray or whitish traffic lanes, dull patches, scuffs that do not buff out and deep scratches or dents all point to wear. Peeling finish and rough spots mean the finish has failed.
Dark stains can mean moisture or pet accidents have reached the wood.
Recoat or refinish
If the floor is dull but the wood is not scratched through, a screen and recoat can renew it without sanding. If scratches and stains reach the wood, sanding and refinishing is needed.
Sanding also lets you change color.
Engineered floors
Engineered hardwood can be refinished only if the wear layer is thick enough. Ask a professional to check the thickness before sanding.
We inspect floors across Nashville and Middle Tennessee and tell you what they need.
Quick answers
How often should I refinish hardwood?
Every ten to twenty years depending on wear, with recoats in between.
Can I refinish just one room?
Yes, though matching color across open spaces can be tricky.
