Engineered hardwood floors have gained immense popularity due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. While they may look and feel like solid hardwood, engineered floors have a thin layer of real wood on top of multiple layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). One common question that homeowners often ask is whether it is possible to refinish engineered hardwood floors. In this article, we will delve into the topic and explore the refinishing potential of engineered hardwood floors.
Understanding Engineered Hardwood Floors
To comprehend the refinishing potential of engineered hardwood floors, it is essential to understand their structure and composition. Unlike solid hardwood floors that are made from a single piece of wood, engineered floors consist of multiple layers bonded together, with the topmost layer being genuine hardwood. These layers provide additional stability and resistance to moisture and temperature variations.
Surface Layer Thickness
One crucial factor that determines whether engineered hardwood floors can be refinished is the thickness of the topmost surface layer. Refinishing involves removing a thin layer of the wood’s surface, enhancing its appearance by eliminating scratches, dents, or discoloration. If the surface layer is too thin, sanding during the refinishing process can easily wear through and damage the floor. Generally, an engineered hardwood floor must have a surface layer of at least 1.5 to 2 millimeters to be eligible for refinishing.
Assessing the Wear Layer
Before attempting to refinish an engineered hardwood floor, it is essential to assess the wear layer’s thickness. The wear layer refers to the topmost surface layer that determines the floor’s durability and the number of times it can be refinished. Professional flooring contractors employ specialized techniques, such as measuring or planing the floor, to determine the wear layer’s thickness accurately.
Refinishing Methods for Engineered Hardwood Floors
If the wear layer is thick enough, refinishing an engineered hardwood floor is undoubtedly possible. However, the process that should be employed for refinishing may differ from that used on solid hardwood floors due to the engineered floor’s layered construction. Here are two common methods for refinishing engineered hardwood floors:
1. Professional Sanding and Refinishing
Professional sanding and refinishing is the most effective method for restoring the appearance and beauty of an engineered hardwood floor. However, given the thin wear layer, it is crucial to hire an experienced flooring professional who understands the nuances of engineered floor refinishing. They will be able to carefully sand the surface without removing too much of the surface layer, ensuring the floor’s longevity.
2. Screening and Recoating
Another method for refinishing engineered hardwood floors is known as screening and recoating. This process involves lightly sanding the floor’s surface to remove any imperfections, followed by applying a new coat of finish. While this method does not completely remove the existing finish like sanding and refinishing does, it can restore the floor’s appearance and prolong its lifespan.
The refinishing potential of engineered hardwood floors depends on the thickness of the wear layer. If the surface layer is at least 1.5 to 2 millimeters thick, professional sanding and refinishing can be employed to restore the floor’s appearance and eliminate any signs of wear. However, it is crucial to hire a skilled professional to ensure the process is done correctly and without damaging the floor. Alternatively, if the wear layer is too thin to withstand sanding, screening and recoating can be a viable option for rejuvenating the floor’s aesthetic appeal.