Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Refinishing can bring a worn hardwood floor back to life without replacing it. This page explains how to tell what you have, the difference between screening and a full sand-and-refinish, and how to care for a refinished floor through a Lake Superior winter.
Original Hardwood Hiding Under Carpet
Many homes built in the Sault in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, including homes in Steelton, Fort Creek and the East End, were first floored in hardwood. In some of those homes, later carpet was laid over the original boards. Lifting a corner in a closet or along a wall can reveal what is underneath.
How to Tell What You Have
Look for clues before deciding on a plan. Board width, the direction boards run, and how the floor sounds underfoot can all help. Gaps, squeaks, and worn finish tell a story too.
Screening vs. a Full Sand-and-Refinish
Screening lightly scuffs the existing finish and adds a fresh top coat, which suits floors with light wear. A full sand-and-refinish removes the old finish and stain down to bare wood, which suits deeper scratches and uneven colour.
Staining Choices
Stain can keep a floor close to its natural tone, warm it up or go darker. Lighter tones can brighten a room, while darker tones add depth.
When Refinishing Beats Replacing
Refinishing usually wins when the boards are solid, flat, and in good shape overall, even if the finish is tired. Replacing makes more sense when boards are badly damaged, warped, or too thin to sand again.
Care Through a Lake Superior Winter
Dry heated air in winter can shrink boards slightly, so a mat at the door and prompt cleanup of grit and meltwater help protect the finish.
Get a Free Quote
Call (249) 700-4998 for a free quote.