Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners because of its durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. However, over time, wear and tear can take a toll on its surface. If your engineered hardwood floors are showing signs of damage, you may be wondering: “Can engineered hardwood be refinished?” The answer depends on several factors, including the thickness of the veneer and the overall condition of the floor. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about refinishing engineered hardwood floors!
What is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?
Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood is constructed with multiple layers of plywood or composite material topped with a real hardwood veneer. This layered structure gives engineered hardwood greater stability and resistance to moisture, making it ideal for areas with fluctuating humidity.
Benefits of Engineered Hardwood:
- More resistant to humidity changes than solid hardwood
- Typically more affordable than solid wood flooring
- Offers a real wood appearance with enhanced durability
- Comes in a variety of wood types and finishes
However, because engineered hardwood has a thin veneer layer, refinishing options are limited compared to solid hardwood flooring.
Can You Refinish Engineered Hardwood Floors?
The Short Answer: Yes, but only if the veneer is thick enough...
The ability to refinish engineered hardwood depends primarily on the thickness of the top hardwood layer:
- Less than 2mm: Refinishing is not recommended. Instead, consider buffing and recoating.
- 2mm – 3mm: Light sanding and refinishing may be possible.
- 3mm or more: Full refinishing, including sanding and staining, is generally safe.
If the veneer is too thin, sanding can expose the underlying plywood or core layers, leading to irreversible damage. In such cases, alternatives like buffing, recoating, or replacing individual planks may be better options.
How to Determine If Your Engineered Hardwood Can Be Refinished
Before attempting to refinish engineered hardwood floors, assess the following factors:
1. Check Veneer Thickness
Use a ruler or remove a floor vent to inspect the edge of the planks. If the top veneer is at least 2mm thick, light refinishing is possible.
2. Assess Floor Condition
Look for scratches, dents, and worn-out areas. Minor surface damage can be fixed with refinishing, but deep gouges or warping may require plank replacement.
3. Consider Past Refinishing
If your engineered hardwood has already been sanded once, refinishing again may not be possible.
4. Perform a Water Test
Place a few drops of water on the floor. If it absorbs quickly, the protective finish is worn out, and refinishing might be necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Refinishing Engineered Hardwood Floors
If your engineered hardwood meets the criteria for refinishing, follow these steps:
1. Inspection & Preparation
- Measure the veneer thickness to confirm refinishing feasibility.
- Clean the floor thoroughly and repair any minor dents or scratches.
2. Light Sanding (If Applicable)
- Use a fine-grit sanding screen to avoid removing too much material.
- Avoid heavy sanding, which could damage the veneer.
3. Deep Cleaning & Buffing
- If sanding is not an option, a buff-and-coat method can help restore the floor’s shine.
4. Staining (Optional)
- If you want to change the floor’s colour, apply a wood stain suited for engineered hardwood.
5. Applying a Finish
- Choose a protective coat such as water-based polyurethane, oil-based polyurethane, or hardwax oil for durability.
6. Drying & Curing
- Allow proper drying time before walking on the floors or moving furniture back in.
Alternatives to Refinishing Engineered Hardwood
If your floors are not suitable for full refinishing, consider these alternatives:
- Buff and Recoat: Adds a fresh protective finish without sanding.
- Deep Cleaning & Polishing: Removes dirt and restores shine.
- Spot Repairs: Fixes localized damage without refinishing the entire floor.
- Replacing Damaged Boards: Ideal for isolated areas with significant wear.
- Installing New Flooring: If refinishing is not an option, upgrading to new engineered hardwood or solid wood may be the best choice.
DIY vs. Professional Refinishing: What’s the Best Choice?
DIY Refinishing:
- Suitable for minor buffing and recoating.
- High risk of over-sanding, leading to irreversible damage and exposing the plywood core.
- Requires specialised tools such as a floor buffer, fine-grit sandpaper, and polyurethane coatings.
- Time-intensive, requiring careful application to avoid uneven finishes.
- Can be cost-effective if only minor touch-ups are needed, but mistakes can lead to expensive repairs or the need for full replacement.
Professional Refinishing:
- Ensures proper sanding techniques to avoid damaging the veneer.
- Utilises professional-grade equipment for a smooth, even finish.
- Experts can assess whether your floors are suitable for refinishing and recommend the best approach.
- Provides high-quality, long-lasting results with protective finishes tailored to your specific flooring.
- Costs range from $3-$7 per sq. ft., while replacing engineered hardwood entirely can range from $8-$20 per sq. ft.
- Reduces stress and guarantees a professional, polished look without the risk of DIY mistakes.
For the best results, hiring a professional refinishing service like Toronto Restoration Services guarantees precision, durability, and expert craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Engineered hardwood floors can be refinished, but only under the right conditions. The thickness of the veneer and overall floor condition are key factors in determining whether refinishing is possible. If refinishing isn’t an option, alternatives like buffing, recoating, or replacing individual planks can help maintain your floors’ appearance.
Not sure if your engineered hardwood can be refinished? Contact Toronto Restoration Services for a free consultation and expert refinishing services in Toronto.
