From nicks and dents when moving furniture to fading from exposure to sunlight, there are several ways hardwood surfaces can look prematurely old or dingy. Although some hardwood flooring repairs might require replacing portions of the installation, you can remedy many common concerns with refinishing. Below are three different types of damage that sanding the surface will fix.   

Hardwood Flooring Repairs That Only Need Refinishing

1. Shallow Dents & Scratches

If you notice light dents and scratches in hardwood flooring, the damage might be shallow enough to repair with refinishing. If the cracks don’t dig into the floor, chances are they haven’t reached the wood. In this case, you can sand away the sealants, removing the scratch in the process. If the dent left impressions, then sand the floorboards first to restore the smooth appearance before resealing. 

2. Peeling Finish

Hardwood floors are treated with special coatings and additional sealants to protect the wood grain. Using harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials could cause the finish to peel and flake. Sand the surface instead to restore the appearance. Scrape away the finish residue and apply a new coat. 

3. Fading From Sunlight

If you leave curtains open during the day, portions of the hardwood floor may gradually fade with direct exposure to sunlight. Fortunately, the discoloration is often contained to the protective coating, so the hardwood underneath is still intact. Sanding and staining the faded areas reverses the effects of sun damage. 

If you want to refinish hardwood floors to restore the beauty and value of your investment, reach out to the team at General's Hardwood Flooring in Webster, NY, for help. Beyond repairing damaged areas, the technicians will also provide maintenance tips to prevent future problems. To schedule a hardwood flooring repair or installation appointment in Monroe County, call (585) 303-5704. Visit the flooring contractors online and follow them on Facebook to see pictures of past projects.