Hardwood floors are an investment. They can last for decades with the proper care, but eventually they will need to be restored. The question is, how do you know when it's time to restore your floors? Discover three key ways to determine when you need to restore your hardwood floors.
1. Examine the Floor for Visible Blemishes
Over time, your hardwood floors will start to show signs of wear and tear. If you are wondering when to restore hardwood floors, one of the most common signs is visible scratches and scuffs. These can be caused by everything from moving furniture to pet claws.
If the scratches and scuffs are minor, you may be able to get away with simply refinishing the floor. However, if they're more significant, you may need to sand down the floor and start from scratch.
Another way to tell if your hardwood floors need to be restored is if they are warping. This can happen when the floorboards absorb too much moisture. If you have noticed that your floor's wood is starting to bend or swell, it is important to take action immediately. Warping can worsen over time and cause permanent damage to your floors, so be sure to act promptly if you notice it.
2. Pay Attention to the Surface and Finish
Another way to tell it's time for a restoration is if the finish on your floors is looking dull and faded. This may be due to UV damage from sunlight exposure or simply because the finish has worn down over time.
If you have an oil-based finish, you'll likely need to refinish the floor. If you have a polyurethane finish, however, buffing or recoating should do the trick. These processes are delicate and require precision, so consult with a professional to ensure that you are not causing harm or damage to your flooring.
You can perform a simple test of your hardwood flooring's integrity by pouring a little water on the boards. When floors in poor condition make contact with water, they are more likely to absorb it rather than repel it. More often than not, this is a reason to get in touch with a professional who can address these issues. If your floors fail this test, then it's time to consider restoration from a professional company that specializes in flooring.
3. Look for Dullness Over Time
Over time, your hardwood floors may become dull. This is often due to foot traffic and furniture scraping against the surface of the wood. If your hardwood floors have lost their shine, consider restoration.
Restoring your hardwood floors can give them back their original luster and make them look brand-new again. If you have been living in your home for several years, then you will often be able to notice fading in areas with the most foot traffic. Keep a close eye on these central spots to more quickly identify other issues such as warping, scratching, and UV damage.
When It's Time To Restore Your Floors
If you have noticed any of these signs, it may be time to consider restoring your hardwood floors. Luckily, there are professionals who specialize in hardwood floor restoration and can help bring your floors back to life.
With appropriate care, hardwood floors can last for years before they need to be restored. However, there will come a time when the restoration process is necessary. Even with regular cleaning and maintenance, you may discover that your hardwood floors require the help of a professional. If you're not sure whether you need a full restoration, reach out and contact Blue Ridge Floors today.
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