Signs refinishing will work
- Surface scratches, scuffs and dull traffic lanes
- Finish worn through in spots but wood still solid
- A stain color you want to change
- Small areas of damage that can be repaired with new boards
Signs replacement may be needed
- Widespread cupping, buckling or soft spots from water
- Large areas of black water or pet stains that go deep into the wood
- Boards sanded so many times that nail heads or tongues are exposed
- Engineered flooring with a wear layer too thin to sand
- Subfloor damage or persistent movement and squeaking across the room
The middle path: repair, then refinish
Many floors are mostly sound with a few problem areas. Damaged boards can be cut out and replaced with matching wood woven into the existing floor. Once the whole area is sanded and finished together, repairs blend in.
Screen and recoat
If the finish is dull but the wood is not scratched through, a screen-and-recoat lightly abrades the existing finish and adds a fresh coat. It does not change color or remove deep scratches, but it is quicker and extends the time before a full refinish.
How we decide on site
During a free estimate we look at board condition, check for moisture, examine edges to gauge remaining wood thickness and, for engineered floors, the wear layer. We then explain which option makes sense and why.
Common questions
- Can existing hardwood floors be refinished?
- Usually yes. Solid hardwood can be refinished several times, and many engineered floors at least once, as long as enough wood remains.
- How long does hardwood refinishing take?
- Most projects take about three to five days including sanding, staining, coating and drying time.
- Can water-damaged boards be repaired without replacing the whole floor?
- Often yes. Damaged boards can be replaced with matching wood and the area refinished so it blends.
Related services
Further reading and nearby areas
Where we work
Prospect Hardwood Flooring of Maryland is based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and serves communities across the state, including Annapolis, Severna Park, Arnold and Gaithersburg, plus the rest of Anne Arundel and Montgomery counties.
Get a free, written estimate
We measure, check your subfloor and moisture levels, and give you an itemized estimate with no obligation.