Hardwood floors are a beautiful and smart investment in a home. Though relatively easy to take care of, you will need to refinish wood flooring occasionally to renew the planks. To help you know when it’s time to schedule service, the Flooring Specialists team has outlined a few of the most common reasons people come to them for refinishing in Honolulu.

When to Refinish a Hardwood Floor

1. Dull Appearance

The wax surface of a newly finished hardwood floor gives it an attractive sheen. As the wax wears down, the surface will start to look dull. Scrape your nail along a plank; if any wax comes off, it’s time to refinish. It’s more than just an aesthetic issue, as the wax is a valuable protective layer.

2. Scratches & Dents

Pets’ nails, furniture, and other forms of wear can damage your finish. Look at the floor in an angle in the light. If you see obvious scratches or dents, it’s time to call a flooring contractor.

3.  Discoloration

If the finish on your floor has worn through, the wood becomes penetrable by moisture. Water oxidizes the wood, turning it gray. Have refinishing done at the first sign of gray. If left alone, the wood will only get darker and more damaged until it cannot be salvaged.

4. Warping

Moisture also warps wood. You may notice some separation between the planks. The edges of the boards may buckle upward or turn downward. Any of these signs mean it’s time to refinish, and your contractor may recommend replacing damaged slats.

5. Rough Floor

When the finish starts to wear away, the floor becomes rougher to the touch. You may notice socks snagging as you walk or the edges of rugs get stuck. This sign will appear first in high-traffic areas of the home.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you’ll benefit by having hardwood floors refinished as soon as possible. Acting fast will prevent further damage and reduce the number of replacement planks. Flooring Specialists in Honolulu, HI, is one of Oahu’s oldest floor sanding and refinishing contractors. Schedule a free estimate by calling them at (808) 842-7755.