Timber floors not only add warmth and beauty but also withstand daily wear and tear to a large extent. However, over time, they may lose their original lustre. They may require refinishing to restore and protect their natural beauty from further damage.
This article shows signs indicating that your timber floors may need refinishing. By identifying these signs early on, you can address them promptly, prolonging the life of your timber floors.
Excessive Scratches
One of the most common signs of wear on timber floors is the presence of scratches. Over time, foot traffic, pet claws, and furniture can leave visible marks on the surface.
Inspect your floors, keeping an eye out for visible lines or grooves that catch the light. It may be time to consider refinishing if you notice excessive scratches that cannot be concealed or buffed out.
Scratches not only detract from the aesthetic appeal of your floors but can also compromise the protective coating.
Boards Turning Gray
Grey discolouration on timber floors can be a sign of oxidation or exposure to moisture.
If you observe boards that have turned grey, chances are that there is water damage. The protective polyurethane coating has worn away, and the wood continues to absorb water.
As the wood absorbs water, the area oxidises and turns grey. It is particularly noticeable when the wood is exposed to water, i.e., rain, snow, spilled drink, or even cleaning products.
Refinishing will not only restore the natural colour of the wood but also provide a new protective layer, preventing further greyness and deterioration.
Water Damage
Water damage is a significant concern when it comes to timber floors. Excessive moisture can lead to cupping or warping individual floorboards, buckling, or swelling. Untreated spills, leaks from plumbing fixtures, or excessive humidity can damage water.
In this case, refinishing is essential to restore the structural integrity of your floors and prevent further damage. However, you’ll need to address the source of the water problem and dry out the affected area firsthand.
Fading or Discolouration
In addition to grey and black discolouration, fading or uneven colouration may also indicate the need for refinishing. Sunlight exposure over a long period can cause the wood’s pigments to shrink, resulting in a patchy or dull appearance.
Furthermore, heavy foot traffic in certain areas may wear away the finish, causing uneven discolouration. Fading affects the visual appeal and indicates a loss of the protective finish. Refinishing will help restore the original colour and protect the wood from further damage.
Splintering Wood Floors
Splintering is a more severe form of damage that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the protective finish on timber floors wears off, leaving the wood vulnerable to damage.
Splinters can be sharp and pose a safety hazard. They can be painful to step on and indicate structural issues with the floorboards. Refinishing will not only smoothen the surface but also reinforce the integrity of your timber floors.
Did You Try the Water Test?
Before jumping to conclusions, it’s worth conducting a simple water test to determine if your timber floors need refinishing.
Sprinkle a few drops of water on various areas of your floor. If the water beads up and forms droplets, your floors still have adequate protection. However, if the water seeps into the wood, darkens the area, or is absorbed within a few minutes, chances are that the finish has worn off, and refinishing may be necessary.
Concluding Thoughts
Timber floors are susceptible to wear and tear, but recognising the signs of damage allows you to take timely action. Scratches, boards turning grey or black, fading/discolouration, water damage, and splintering wood floors indicate that refinishing is needed.
Remember to conduct a water test to confirm the condition of your floors. Refinishing your timber floors will revive their natural beauty and extend their lifespan.
Don’t let scratches, discolouration, or water damage diminish the beauty of your floors. Contact Stanton Flooring today and let our experts revitalise your timber floors, bringing back their natural lustre and ensuring they stand the test of time.