Specializing in hardwood floor refinishing and cleaning services

Guide to Hardwood Floor Refinishing: Restore and Revive Your Floors

guide to hardwood floor refinishing

Hardwood floors are a timeless investment that can last for decades—but only with proper maintenance. 

Hardwood floor refinishing is the best way to restore worn, scratched, or dull wood floors, giving them a fresh, new look and enhancing your home’s comfort.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hardwood floor refinishing.

True Clean Hardwood specializes in expert hardwood floor refinishing services in North Carolina—helping homeowners restore their wood floors. 

Contact True Clean Hardwood today for a free quote!

Why Refinish Your Hardwood Floors?

Hardwood floor refinishing isn’t just about looks—it’s about preserving and protecting your investment for years to come.

Over time, scratches, dents, stains, and fading can make your floors look worn and damaged.

Refinishing removes imperfections and extends the life of your floors.

Top Benefits of Refinishing Hardwood Floors:

  • Eliminates deep scratches, gouges, and stains.
  • Restores faded or discolored wood.
  • Enhances the natural beauty of hardwood.
  • Adds a protective layer to prevent future damage.
  • Increases property value if you’re selling your home.

signs your floor need a hardwood floor refinishing jobSigns Your Floors Need Refinishing

Not sure if you need to refinish hardwood floors?

Here are the clear signs that it’s time:

  • Deep scratches and gouges that penetrate the wood surface.
  • Discoloration or fading from sun exposure or water damage.
  • Worn-out high-traffic areas that appear dull and lifeless.
  • Persistent stains that regular cleaning can’t remove.
  • Loss of sheen even after polishing.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider hardwood floor refinishing to restore their beauty and durability.

Hardwood Floor Refinishing: Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Preparing the Room

  • Remove furniture, rugs, and baseboards.
  • Cover vents and doorways to minimize dust spread.
  • Thoroughly clean the floor to remove dirt and debris.

2. Sanding the Hardwood Floor

Sanding is critical to remove old finishes and smooth out imperfections.

  • Use 40-grit sandpaper to remove old layers.
  • Switch to 80-grit for a smoother surface.
  • Finish with 100-120 grit for a polished look.
  • Edge sanding ensures an even finish.

Use dustless refinishing methods with vacuum attachments to reduce airborne dust.

But if you don’t want to worry about the dust from all the sanding, then you are in the right place with True Clean Hardwood!

Their sandless refinishing service eliminates the mess of sanding, restoring the shine to your hardwood floors without having to trouble yourself with all the dust.

3. Applying Stain and Finish

Once the sanding is complete, it’s time to enhance your floors with a stain and protective finish.

  • Water popping (lightly misting the floor) opens the wood grain for deeper stain penetration.
  • Choose a stain that complements your home’s décor.
  • Apply multiple coats of finish for durability and shine.
  • Seal with polyurethane—oil-based for a rich look or water-based for faster drying.
    • Oil-based polyurethane: Rich amber hue but longer drying time.
    • Water-based polyurethane: Clear, natural look with faster drying.

Want expert tips on choosing the right stain and advice on refinishing your hardwood floors?

With 24+ years of experience in the North Carolina flooring industry, True Clean Hardwood has witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformations achieved through professional hardwood floor refinishing.

Let True Clean Hardwood help you redeem the gleam on your floors!

Dustless Hardwood Floor Refinishing: Is It Worth It?

Many homeowners worry about the dust and mess associated with hardwood floor refinishing. 

Dustless refinishing minimizes airborne dust, making it a great option for:

  • Homes with allergies or respiratory concerns.
  • Minimizing cleanup after the project.
  • Protecting furniture and belongings from dust.

While not 100% dust-free, advanced vacuum systems can keep your home clean during the refinishing process.

DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Should You Refinish Your Hardwood Floors Yourself?

DIY refinishing may seem like a way to save money, but it comes with serious risks:

  • Improper sanding can permanently damage the wood.
  • Uneven stain application leads to blotchy results.
  • Lack of professional tools makes the job harder.
  • Mistakes can cost more to fix than hiring a pro.

Hiring professionals ensures a flawless, long-lasting result. 

True Clean Hardwood delivers expert refinishing with top-tier equipment and techniques—saving you time, effort, and money in the long run.

Choosing the Right Stain and Finish for Your Floors

Picking the right stain and finish can transform your space. 

Here are some popular choices:

  • Classic & Modern Stains:
    • Minwax Dark Walnut + Classic Gray (50/50 mix).
    • Natural tones for a timeless look.
    • Gray and whitewashed finishes for modern appeal.
  • Oil-based polyurethane: Warm glow, long-lasting protection.
  • Water-based polyurethane: Quick-drying, eco-friendly.

Caring for Newly Refinished Hardwood Floors

To maintain the beauty of your refinished hardwood floors:

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly (use a soft-bristled broom).
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
  • Use furniture pads to prevent scratches.
  • Place doormats at entrances to trap dirt.

For deep cleaning, consider professional hardwood floor cleaning services to preserve the finish.

Cost of Hardwood Floor Refinishing

In North Carolina, the cost of hardwood floor refinishing typically ranges depending on:

  • Floor condition
  • Stain and finish type
  • Labor and material costs

For an exact quote, contact True Clean Hardwood today!

FAQs About Hardwood Floor Refinishing

1. What are the benefits of refinishing hardwood floors? 

Refinishing removes scratches, dents, and stains while restoring the floor’s natural beauty.

It also adds a protective layer that extends the life of your floors.

2. What types of finishes are available for hardwood floors?

You can choose from water-based, oil-based, or polyurethane finishes, each offering different levels of durability and sheen.

True Clean Hardwood can help you select the best option for your needs!

3. What happens if my hardwood floors have deep gouges or missing planks?

Deep gouges and missing planks may require wood filler or board replacement before refinishing.

True Clean Hardwood can assess the damage and recommend the best repair options.

Aside from hardwood floor refinishing, they also offer hardwood wax removal and cleaning and buffing!

hardwood floor refinishing

Invest in Professional Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Hardwood floor refinishing restores their beauty, extends their lifespan, and increases home value.

It gives you comfort and relaxation from a tiring day from work or the bustling outside world.

Whether your floors need minor touch-ups or a complete refinishing, it’s worth investing in expert services.

Give your hardwood floors a fresh, updated look with hardwood floor refinishing services from True Clean Hardwood.

Contact True Clean Hardwood and let them revive your floors with expert care!

919-502-1958