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Hardwood Floor Resurfacing vs. Refinishing: Key Differences & Which to Choose

If your floors have lost their luster, you may be wondering: Should you resurface or refinish them?

While both options can revive your hardwood, they serve different purposes depending on the condition of your floors.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between hardwood floor resurfacing vs. refinishing and which solution is best for your needs.

Whether you're dealing with minor scuffs or deep gouges, understanding these options will help you make the right choice.

Quick Look: Resurfacing vs. Refinishing

  • Refinishing: Sanding + new stain & finish for deep restoration (3-5 days).
  • Resurfacing: Buffing + new topcoat for surface refresh (1-2 days).
  • Choose Refinishing When: Floors have deep scratches or need color changes.
  • Choose Resurfacing When: Maintaining lightly worn floors with existing color.
  • Frequency: Resurface every 3-5 years, refinish every 10-15 years.

Keep reading for more tips & details…

Table of Contents

What Is Hardwood Floor Refinishing?

Hardwood floor refinishing is a comprehensive restoration process that involves sanding down the top layer of your wood floors and applying a fresh finish. This method is ideal for floors with deep scratches, stains, or significant wear that a simple cleaning or surface treatment can’t fix.

The Refinishing Process

  1. Sanding – A drum sander removes the old finish and a thin layer of wood, eliminating deep scratches and imperfections. An edger handles hard-to-reach areas.
  2. Staining (Optional) – If you want to change the color of your floors, this is when a new stain is applied.
  3. Finishing – A protective topcoat (such as polyurethane, oil-based, or water-based finish) is applied to seal and protect the wood.

Pros of Refinishing

  • ✔ Restores floors to like-new condition – Removes deep damage and discoloration.
  • ✔ Long-lasting results – Properly refinished floors can last 10+ years before needing another treatment.
  • ✔ Customizable appearance – You can change the stain color to match your décor.

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Cons of Refinishing

  • ✖ More labor-intensive & time-consuming – Typically takes 3–5 days (including drying time).
  • ✖ Generates dust & fumes – Requires good ventilation and may mean temporarily vacating your home.
  • ✖ Higher cost – More expensive than resurfacing due to labor and materials.

When Should You Refinish Your Hardwood Floors?

  • If sanding reveals bare, unstained wood in high-traffic areas.
  • If you see deep gouges, pet scratches, or water stains.
  • If you want to change the color of your floors.

Refinishing is the best choice for a long-term solution, especially if your floors have significant wear.

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What Is Hardwood Floor Resurfacing?

Hardwood floor resurfacing (also called recoating or screening) is a less invasive process that revitalizes floors by applying a fresh topcoat without sanding down to bare wood. This method is ideal for floors that have minor wear, light scratches, or dullness but don’t need a full refinish.

The Resurfacing Process

  1. Deep Cleaning – Floors are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, wax, and old polish.
  2. Light Buffing – A floor buffer with an abrasive screen lightly scuffs the existing finish to help the new coat adhere.
  3. New Finish Application – A fresh layer of polyurethane or other protective finish is applied (no stain change possible).

Pros of Resurfacing

  • ✔ Faster & More Affordable – Typically completed in 1–2 days at a fraction of refinishing costs.
  • ✔ Minimal Disruption – No heavy sanding means less dust and no need to vacate your home.
  • ✔ Preserves Existing Finish – Extends the life of your floors between full refinishes.

Cons of Resurfacing

  • ✖ Doesn’t Fix Deep Damage – Won’t remove deep scratches, stains, or warped boards.
  • ✖ Limited Aesthetic Changes – Can’t alter the wood’s color since no stain is applied.
  • ✖ Shorter Lifespan – Lasts 2–5 years before another refresh is needed.

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When Should You Resurface Your Hardwood Floors?

  • If your floors have light surface scratches but no major damage.
  • If the existing finish is worn or dull but the wood underneath is still in good shape.
  • If you want a quick, budget-friendly refresh without the mess of sanding.

Resurfacing vs. Refinishing: Which Is Right for You?

  • Resurfacing = "Facelift" – Best for minor wear, quick updates, and maintenance.
  • Refinishing = "Full Makeover" – Necessary for deep damage or color changes.

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Which Option Should You Choose?

Deciding between resurfacing and refinishing ultimately comes down to your floor's condition, budget, and goals. Here's a clear guide to help you choose the best option for your home.

✔ Choose Hardwood Floor RESURFACING If:

✅ Your Floors Have Minor Wear

  • Light surface scratches
  • Dull finish but intact wood
  • No deep gouges or stains

✅ You Want a Quick, Affordable Refresh

  • Need results in 1-2 days
  • Working with a limited budget ($1 − $3 per sq ft)
  • Can't handle major dust/disruption

✅ You're Happy With the Current Color

  • Just want to restore shine
  • Don't need to change the stain

Best For:

  • Maintenance between refinishes
  • Rental properties
  • Preparing a home for sale

✔ Choose Hardwood Floor REFINISHING If:

✅ Your Floors Have Significant Damage

  • Deep scratches or gouges
  • Visible stains or discoloration
  • Warped or uneven boards

✅ You Want Long-Term Results

  • Willing to invest more (3−3−7/sq ft)
  • Want 10+ years of durability
  • Don't mind 3-5 days of work

✅ You Want to Change the Look

  • Wish to darken/lighten stain
  • Prefer a different finish (matte vs glossy)

Best For:

  • Full home renovations
  • Historic floors
  • Custom design changes

Still Unsure? Ask Yourself These Questions:

  1. Can you see bare wood in high-traffic areas? → If YES, you likely need refinishing
  2. Do scratches disappear when you rub them with a damp cloth? → If NO, refinishing may be necessary
  3. Is the damage only in the finish (not the wood)? → If YES, resurfacing could work

💡 Pro Tip: When in doubt, consult a flooring professional. Many offer free estimates and can recommend the best approach after inspecting your floors.

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