JGordon
Wood Floor Refinishing
Wood Floor Buffing vs Wood Floor Sanding
Deciphering Between Hardwood Floor Buffing and Sanding
When considering rejuvenating your hardwood floor, the options of either buffing or sanding often come into play. In this article we aim to clarify the distinctions between the two processes, aiding you in making an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Understanding Hardwood Floors:
Hardwood floors are valued for both their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. They come in various colors, styles, cuts and wood species with planks milled from a single piece of timber. These planks are considered optimal for creating hardwood floors. The popularity of hardwood flooring stems from its durability, ease of maintenance, aesthetic quality and the positive impact it has on indoor air quality. Also, there is the value that is added to your home or office.
The Role of Buffing and Screening:
Buffing and screening are techniques used to enhance the appearance and quality of hardwood floors. Buffing eliminates minor scratches and scuffs, providing a shiny luster that can endure for years. While seemingly straightforward, buffing is a time-consuming process, requiring precision for a high-quality outcome. Screening, which is synonymous with buffing, involves scuffing or abrading the floor in preparation for the application of a protective coat of polyurethane, adding both sheen and safeguarding qualities.
Buffing, leaves the wood intact, replenishing the finish and increasing the floor's durability. It protects against regular wear and scratches, with recommended intervals of approximately once every three years for optimal results. Our experienced technicians at JGordon Wood Floor Refinishing understand and use the correct buffing procedures needed to expertly enhance your floor's appearance and protection.
The Pros and Cons of Buffing:
Pros:
- Restores the beauty and color of your hardwood floors.
- Preserves and extends the lifespan of hardwood floors.
Cons:
- Requires experienced application of a new polyurethane coat.
- Not a solution for wood damage or discoloration.
Sanding and Polishing for Restoration:
Floor sanding involves the removal of the top surface of the wooden floor using abrasive equipment and materials. It becomes necessary when the finish is worn through, or to address deep scratches or damage. The sanding and polishing process includes preparation, sanding and coating with a protective sealant.
Pros and Cons of Sanding:
Pros:
- Enhances the home's value, making floors attractive for potential buyers.
- Removes existing damage and prevents further deterioration.
- Leaves the floor clean, smooth, and easy to maintain.
Cons:
- Requires more time than buffing.
- Can generate dust, but a skilled technician should manage cleanup effectively.
- Should be done sparingly due to the removal of a thin layer of wood, with limits on the number of sanding sessions.
- Please note...sanding brings notable improvements, but be mindful of its limitations and the potential impact on the floor's lifespan.
Feel the Difference:
While both buffing and sanding contribute to the restoration of the original look of hardwood floors, there are clear distinctions. Sanding removes damaged polyurethane and a layer of wood, involving restaining and sealing with a new polyurethane coat. On the other hand, buffing focuses on the polyurethane sealer without touching the wood, providing protection for the underlying color and wood layer.
Buffing and sanding, when done professionally, can revive the original beauty of your hardwood floors, and potentially increase the value of your home or office. It is advisable to enlist the expertise of professionals, like us, to execute these processes.
Hire A Pro:
For superior hardwood floor sanding and wood floor buffing services, reach out to our experienced professionals at
JGordon Wood Floor Refinishing. We specialize in hardwood floor refinishing...it's what we do. From the initial consult to the final finish and clean-up, we will make your floors shine. Contact us for an estimate and let us bring new life to your tired and worn out hardwood floors.