“Is refinishing really worth it, or should we just replace the floors entirely?”
Hardwood floors are one of the most sought-after features in a home. They’re beautiful, durable, and can last for decades — but only if properly maintained. Over time, though, foot traffic, furniture, and everyday wear can dull the finish and leave scratches or discolouration. That’s when homeowners start to ask: “Is refinishing really worth it, or should we just replace the floors entirely?”
At Toronto Restoration Services, we get this question all the time from homeowners in Toronto, Vaughan, and Richmond Hill. Here’s what you need to know before making a decision.
The Cost of Refinishing vs. Replacing
The first factor most homeowners consider is cost. In the GTA, refinishing hardwood floors typically ranges from $4 to $7 per square foot, depending on the condition of your floors and the finish you choose.
By comparison, replacing hardwood floors can cost $12 to $20+ per square foot, once you factor in demolition, disposal of old flooring, new materials, and installation labour. That means refinishing can be less than half the cost of replacement — and in many cases, it delivers a result that looks just as good as new.
The Long-Term Value of Refinishing
Refinishing isn’t just cheaper upfront. It also helps you get the maximum life out of your existing hardwood. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that even floors with heavy wear, scratches, or discolouration can often be sanded down and refinished to look like new.
Other benefits include:
- Increased home value: Well-maintained hardwood floors are a major selling point. Real estate agents regularly note that buyers will pay more for a home with refinished wood floors than for one with carpets or damaged hardwood.
- Improved durability: A fresh finish strengthens your floor’s protective layer against spills, scratches, and UV damage.
- Custom look: Refinishing lets you update the colour or sheen to match your current décor — something you can’t do with new pre-finished boards unless you start from scratch.
When Refinishing Might Not Be Enough
While refinishing is usually the better choice, there are cases where replacement makes more sense:
- Severe water damage or rot: If the wood is warped or has mould, it may be beyond repair.
- Multiple previous sandings: Solid hardwood can be sanded several times, but engineered hardwood with a thin veneer may only withstand one refinishing.
- Structural issues: If boards are loose, subfloors are uneven, or there are major gaps, replacement may be necessary.
If you’re not sure, a professional inspection will help you determine if refinishing is still an option.
Why Most Toronto Homeowners Choose Refinishing
For the majority of homeowners in Toronto, Vaughan, and Richmond Hill, refinishing is the smarter, more cost-effective option. It preserves the original character of your floors while saving money and avoiding the mess of a full replacement.
At Toronto Restoration Services, we’ve refinished everything from century-old oak floors in downtown Toronto to high-traffic maple floors in Vaughan businesses — and the results speak for themselves. Our dustless refinishing process means less disruption to your home, and our water-based finishes are low-odour and eco-friendly.
Ready to Refresh Your Hardwood Floors?
If your hardwood floors are scratched, dull, or discoloured, don’t rush to replace them. Refinishing could restore their beauty for a fraction of the cost.
