Engineered hardwood floors offer the beauty and warmth of solid hardwood with added durability and stability. But what happens when they start to show wear and tear? Can engineered hardwood be refinished like solid hardwood? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
Understanding engineered hardwood construction
Engineered hardwood consists of a layered structure:
- Wear Layer: The top layer is real hardwood veneer, the part you see and walk on.
- Core: The core is typically made of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF), providing stability and resistance to moisture.
- Backing: The bottom layer provides additional stability and balance to the plank.
The thickness of the wear layer is the key factor in determining whether your engineered hardwood can be refinished and how many times.
Refinishing possibilities: it depends on the wear layer
Thick wear layer (4mm or more):
Engineered hardwood with a thick wear layer can typically be refinished multiple times, similar to solid hardwood. This allows you to sand down scratches, dents, and wear, restoring the floor's original beauty.
Medium wear layer (2-4mm):
Floors with a medium wear layer might be refinished once or twice, depending on the depth of the sanding.
Thin wear layer (less than 2mm):
Engineered hardwood with a thin wear layer may not be suitable for refinishing. Sanding could damage the veneer, exposing the core layers.
Additional considerations for refinishing engineered hardwood
Factory finish
If your engineered hardwood has a factory-applied finish (usually aluminum oxide), it's generally more durable and less likely to require refinishing. However, if you do need to refinish, it's important to match the new finish to the existing one for a consistent look.
Distressed or handscraped finishes
These types of finishes can make refinishing more challenging, as sanding may remove the texture or detail. Consult with a professional refinisher to assess whether refinishing is possible without losing the floor's character.
When refinishing isn't an option
If your engineered hardwood has a thin wear layer or has been refinished multiple times, it may be time for replacement. Fortunately, advancements in manufacturing have led to more durable and water-resistant engineered hardwood options that offer longer lifespans.
Consult with a hardwood flooring professional
Before deciding to refinish your engineered hardwood, it's crucial to assess the thickness of the wear layer and consult with a professional flooring expert. They can advise you on whether refinishing is feasible and the best approach for your specific flooring.
If you're in Bellevue, WA, Redmond, WA, Kirkland, WA, Auburn, WA, Renton, WA, Tacoma, WA Lynnwood, WA, Edmonds, WA, or Bothell, WA, and have questions about refinishing your engineered hardwood, visit Nielsen Bros Flooring. Founded in 1946, we have a wealth of experience in the Seattle metropolitan area and can provide expert advice on all your flooring needs. We'll help you determine the best course of action for your engineered hardwood floors, ensuring they continue to look beautiful and enhance your home for years to come.
