Getting Floors Refinished: 7 Powerful Renovation Tips
Getting Floors Refinished – The Complete Homeowner’s Guide
When you are getting floors refinished, you are investing in both the beauty and longevity of your home. Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company has decades of experience helping homeowners transform dull, scratched, or aged floors into vibrant surfaces that look brand new. Whether you have oak hardwood, engineered herringbone, or parquet flooring, proper refinishing can bring back the natural luster that makes wood floors timeless.
Why Getting Floors Refinished Is Worth It
Refinishing floors is not just about looks—it is about extending the lifespan of your flooring. Over time, traffic, furniture, and sunlight cause dulling and discoloration. Sanding and coating your floor can eliminate imperfections, boost durability, and enhance the resale value of your property. Learn more about our wooden floor installation services for complete floor transformations.
- Eliminates deep scratches and dents
- Restores natural color and shine
- Protects wood from future damage
- Saves money compared to full floor replacement
When you are getting floors refinished, you are also making a sustainable choice. Refinishing uses existing materials rather than replacing them, reducing waste and preserving the character of your original flooring. According to the National Wood Flooring Association, proper maintenance and refinishing significantly extend floor life and promote long-term sustainability of raw materials [web:12].
Choosing the Right Company for Getting Floors Refinished
At Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company (tel 07940 528 315, email: enquiries@nhfcompany.co.uk), we specialize in affordable, high-quality wood refinishing services across the UK. Our team of skilled floor installers, contractors, and fitters handle both domestic and commercial projects—from small bedroom updates to large retail floor renovations. View examples of our craftsmanship in our project gallery.
Key Qualities to Look For
- Fully insured flooring contractor with proven experience
- Transparent pricing and free written quotations
- High-quality equipment and eco-friendly finishes
- Professional dust extraction systems for clean refinishing
Before hiring, always review the company’s previous projects and customer testimonials. Visit our clients page to see feedback from satisfied homeowners and commercial property managers.
Understanding the Floor Refinishing Process
The process of getting floors refinished typically involves several key stages designed to achieve a smooth and lasting finish:
- Inspection and Preparation: Flooring specialists inspect boards for damage, loose planks, or nails. Furniture and rugs are removed before work begins.
- Sanding: Using industrial-grade sanding machines, the top surface layer is stripped away. This removes scratches, scuffs, and old coatings.
- Cleaning: Vacuuming and wiping surfaces remove fine dust particles left behind by sanding.
- Staining (optional): Homeowners can choose a new shade or tone to update the look of their floor, such as with Blenheim Multi-Ply Flooring or Herringbone Chatsworth Flooring.
- Finishing: Protective coats, such as polyurethane or oil-based finishes, are applied to add shine and durability.
- Drying and Curing: Full drying times depend on humidity levels but typically range from 24 to 72 hours before light use.
Getting Floors Refinished in London
London is filled with historic homes and character properties featuring genuine hardwood and parquet floors. When you are getting floors refinished in London, it is critical to respect the architectural heritage of your property. Popular boroughs such as Kensington, Richmond, and Hampstead often contain Edwardian and Georgian townhouses with original oak or mahogany floors that can be beautifully restored rather than replaced.
Local Insights
Across the capital, especially in areas like Notting Hill and Greenwich, many residents choose professional refinishing to preserve character flooring. With modern dust-free sanding and eco-friendly lacquers, refinishing can be completed quickly and without disrupting your daily life. Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company operates locally, bringing decades of craftsmanship to homes and commercial spaces across Greater London. Discover more about our London projects in our flooring blog.
Popular Flooring Types That Benefit from Refinishing
- Oak Flooring: Durable and elegant, oak responds exceptionally well to sanding and refinishing. Explore our Buckingham Solid Collection for natural oak finishes.
- Parquet Flooring: Intricate geometric patterns that regain richness and precision after refinishing.
- Engineered Timber Floors: Refinishing removes surface wear and restores luster if the veneer is thick enough. See our Balmoral Engineered and Primes Engineered Flooring options.
- Solid Wood Flooring: Ideal for multiple refinishing cycles thanks to thick, natural grain.
- Herringbone Flooring: A classic European pattern that looks stunning once sanded and resealed, such as our Eastbury Multi-Ply Range.
Cost of Getting Floors Refinished
The cost of getting floors refinished depends on floor size, condition, wood type, and chosen finish. On average, prices in the UK range from £18 to £30 per square metre for sanding and sealing. Premium stains and oil-based coatings cost slightly more but offer superior depth and longevity. Always request a detailed quote to understand what is included, such as edging, staining, and topcoat application.
Our team at Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company offers transparent pricing, ensuring customers understand their floor installation and refinishing costs before work begins.
Maintenance Tips After Getting Floors Refinished
Once your refinishing project is complete, proper care will ensure the finish lasts for many years. Follow these steps to preserve the newly restored look of your floors:
- Place rugs in high-traffic areas to prevent abrasion
- Use felt pads under furniture legs
- Wipe spills promptly to avoid staining
- Clean with a damp mop and pH-neutral cleaner
- Avoid wearing high heels on newly finished surfaces
Routine maintenance every few years, including buffing and re-coating, can extend the lifespan of the floor by another decade before a full refinishing is necessary. The National Wood Flooring Association recommends using cleaners specifically formulated for your floor’s finish to maintain performance and appearance [web:12]. For daily care, Ambience Hardwood Flooring advises removing dirt and grit with a soft brush or vacuum to prevent scratches [web:6].
When to Refinish vs Replace
Homeowners often ask whether getting floors refinished is better than replacing them. Refinishing is viable if the wood has not been sanded excessively and the planks are solid. Replacement is needed for severe warping, rot, or moisture damage.
Environmental Impact
Choosing refinishing over replacement prevents unnecessary waste. It conserves hardwood resources and reduces the carbon footprint linked to manufacturing new materials. This eco-friendly decision aligns with sustainable building practices widely adopted in the UK. According to Ryan’s Restoration, low-VOC finishes improve indoor air quality and reduce environmental pollution, making them ideal for health-conscious homes [web:7].
Best Finishes for Refinished Floors
Selecting the right finish defines both look and performance. The most common types when getting floors refinished include:
- Polyurethane (Oil-based): Durable, rich color, slightly amber tone.
- Polyurethane (Water-based): Quick-drying, clear finish, ideal for light woods.
- Hard Wax Oil: Natural look, enhances grain details, easy to repair locally.
- Shellac and Varnish: Traditional finishes used in heritage properties.
We always recommend testing a small section before application to ensure the color tone and finish match your preference. For eco-conscious homeowners, Ryan’s Restoration highlights natural oils and water-based urethanes as sustainable, low-VOC options that enhance durability and indoor air quality [web:7].
Safety and Preparation Before Getting Floors Refinished
Floor refinishing involves mechanical equipment and chemicals, so preparation is vital. Ensure rooms are ventilated, pets and children are removed, and surfaces are covered. Our professionals use advanced HEPA extraction systems to minimize dust and odor. See examples of safe, clean refinishing on our Our Work page.
Getting Floors Refinished in Older Properties
Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian homes contain timber flooring that has endured generations of use. When getting floors refinished in these historic buildings, care must be taken to preserve original grain and character. Gentle sanding and natural oil finishes maintain period authenticity.
Local Heritage Areas
In historic regions like Bath, Cambridge, and Oxford, refinishing often requires adherence to heritage guidelines. Floors that have lasted over 100 years can be rejuvenated with craftsmanship and appropriate materials. Explore timeless collections like Loch Tummel Multi-Ply for inspiration.
Getting Floors Refinished in Commercial Spaces
Shops, offices, restaurants, and hotels rely on polished flooring to impress clients and maintain hygiene. Durable finishes such as UV-cured coatings are ideal for business environments. Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company specializes in both residential and commercial refinishing services across the UK.
Comparing DIY vs Professional Refinishing
While DIY kits exist, professional work ensures even sanding depth, consistent finishes, and long-term durability. Mistakes during DIY sanding can permanently damage engineered flooring layers, e.g., HARO Engineered Flooring. Hiring experts ensures flawless execution and value.
Environmental and Health Benefits
Modern floor refinishing products are low-VOC and environmentally friendly. This means getting floors refinished today produces fewer emissions compared to older solvent-based finishes. Our company uses eco-oils and water-based polyurethane that meet EU environmental standards while delivering premium longevity. As noted by Ryan’s Restoration, certifications like FSC and SFI ensure wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests, supporting sustainable forestry practices [web:7].
Local Areas We Serve
Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company proudly serves homes and businesses across London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, and Bristol, as well as towns like Guildford and Milton Keynes. Each project is handled by certified technicians ensuring precision and satisfaction. Visit Contact Us to request local service availability in your region.
Why Choose Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company
- Experienced flooring contractors with over 25 years of service
- Affordable pricing and premium results
- Expertise in herringbone, oak, and parquet flooring
- Eco-conscious materials for refinishing and installation
- Comprehensive UK coverage for residential and commercial clients
Choosing our trusted team ensures your floor refinishing project runs smoothly from preparation to final polish. Discover more about our heritage and approach on our About Us page.
FAQs About Getting Floors Refinished
How often should I get my floors refinished?
Most hardwood floors need refinishing every 7–10 years depending on foot traffic and finish type.
Can engineered wood be refinished?
Yes, as long as the top veneer is at least 3mm thick. Our experts can assess your floor before starting.
Will refinishing remove all scratches?
Yes, surface scratches and dull finishes will be sanded and restored to natural beauty. See real results in our project showcase.
How long does refinishing take?
A typical room takes 2–3 days depending on drying time and coat layers applied.
Is refinishing messy?
Using modern dust-extraction equipment, our refinishing services are virtually mess-free and odor-controlled.
Contact Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company
For homeowners or businesses considering getting floors refinished, contact Nationwide Hardwood Flooring Company today for a free quote through our Contact Page.
Phone: 07940 528 315 Email: enquiries@nhfcompany.co.uk
Our expert team provides competitive pricing, professional workmanship, and guaranteed satisfaction on hardwood refinishing projects across the UK.
Final Thoughts
Getting floors refinished remains one of the most transformative and cost-effective ways to refresh your space. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace in London or a modern apartment in Manchester, refinishing revives character and warmth underfoot. With the right care and craftsmanship, your floors will retain stunning appearance for decades to come. Stay informed about trends through our flooring blog.
