Engineered hardwood floors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability and versatility. These floors are made by bonding a thin layer of real hardwood on top of a substrate of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). This construction provides the look and feel of solid hardwood while being more stable and resistant to warping and expansion. However, over time, engineered hardwood floors may start to show signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dings, or stains.
The process involves sanding down the surface of the floor to remove any imperfections, and then applying a new coat of finish. This can not only improve the appearance of your floors, but also help to protect them from future wear and tear.
One of the main benefits of refinishing engineered hardwood floors is that it allows you to change the color of your floors without having to replace them. If you're tired of the color of your floors and want to change the look of your room, you can simply choose a different stain color and apply it to the floors. This is a much more cost-effective option than replacing the floors entirely.
Another benefit of refinishing engineered hardwood floors is that it can help to improve their durability. The sanding process removes the top layer of the finish, exposing a fresh layer of wood. This can help to seal the wood and protect it from moisture, which can cause warping and cupping. Additionally, the new coat of finish that is applied after sanding can help to protect the floors from scratches and dings, which can prolong the life of the floors.
It's worth noting that not all engineered hardwood floors can be refinished. Some engineered hardwood floors have a thin veneer of real wood, which may not be thick enough to withstand sanding. In this case, you may need to consider replacing the floors. Additionally, the number of times engineered hardwood floors can be refinished is limited, usually between 1-3 times. It is important to consult with a professional flooring expert before deciding to refinish your engineered hardwood floors. ( See the Rasp safely removing Micro-Bevels and scratches on a 1/8" wear level aluminum oxide engineered hardwood floor.)
Refinishing engineered hardwood floors is a great way to improve the appearance of your floors without the need for a full replacement. The process can be completed relatively quickly and efficiently, and it can help to improve the durability and longevity of your floors. However, it's important to make sure that your floors are suitable for refinishing before starting the process.