Tired of Scratches? Revive Your Vancouver Hardwood Floors!
Does your beautiful hardwood floor look more like a dog park than a design statement? Scratches, dents, and dullness can make even the most stylish Vancouver home feel a bit…ruff. Refinishing your hardwood floors might be the answer! This guide helps pet owners like you decide if refinishing is the right choice.
Is Refinishing Right for You?
Before diving in, consider these factors:
- The Age and Thickness of Your Floors: Solid hardwood can usually be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood, however, has a thinner veneer and may only withstand one or two refinishing jobs (or none at all!). Check with a flooring expert.
- The Extent of the Damage: Minor scratches and wear can often be addressed with a simple screen and recoat. Deep scratches, significant dents, or water damage may require a full refinish.
- Your Budget: Refinishing is generally less expensive than replacing your floors. However, costs can vary widely depending on the size of the area, the type of finish, and the complexity of the job.
- Your Tolerance for Disruption: Refinishing involves sanding, which creates dust. You'll need to remove furniture and pets from the area and be prepared for some noise and inconvenience.
Understanding the Refinishing Process
Here's a simplified overview of what to expect:
- Preparation: The room is cleared, and the floors are thoroughly cleaned.
- Sanding: The old finish and any imperfections are sanded away.
- Staining (Optional): If you want to change the color of your floors, a stain is applied.
- Finishing: Several coats of a protective finish are applied, with drying time in between.
Choosing the Right Finish for Pet Owners
Selecting a durable, pet-friendly finish is crucial. Here are some popular options:
- Water-Based Polyurethane: This is a popular choice because it's durable, low-VOC (good for air quality), and dries quickly. Look for high-quality, multi-coat systems for maximum protection against pet scratches and accidents.
- Oil-Based Polyurethane: This finish is known for its durability and warm amber tone. However, it has a stronger odor and takes longer to dry than water-based options.
- Moisture-Cured Urethane: This is the most durable option but also the most expensive and requires professional application. It's highly resistant to scratches, chemicals, and moisture.
Tip: Consider a matte or satin finish. They tend to hide scratches and imperfections better than glossy finishes.
Considerations for Pets During Refinishing
- Relocation is Key: Keep your pets away from the refinishing area. The dust and fumes can be harmful to them. Consider boarding them or having them stay with a friend or family member.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during and after the refinishing process to minimize exposure to fumes.
- Choose Low-VOC Products: Select low-VOC finishes to reduce indoor air pollution and potential health risks for your pets.
Finding a Reputable Vancouver Flooring Professional
- Ask for Referrals: Get recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had their hardwood floors refinished.
- Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several contractors to compare prices and services.
- Check for Licensing and Insurance: Ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability.
Maintaining Your Refinished Floors
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the finish.
- Use Pet-Friendly Cleaners: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Choose pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for hardwood floors.
- Trim Your Pet's Nails: Keep your pet's nails trimmed to minimize scratching.
- Use Area Rugs: Place area rugs in high-traffic areas and under furniture to protect the floors.