Hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable option for any home, but over time they can begin to show signs of wear and tear. If your hardwood floors are looking dull, scratched, or worn, you may be considering refinishing them. However, there is another option that can save you time, money, and hassle – a screen and recoat.
A screen and recoat is a process where a new coat of finish is applied to the existing hardwood floors, without sanding down to the bare wood. Instead, a buffer with a fine sanding screen is used to remove the top layer of the existing finish, creating a smooth surface for the new coat of finish to adhere to.
Compared to sanding and refinishing, a screen and recoat is a less invasive process that can be completed more quickly and at a lower cost. Here are some of the key differences between the two options:
Time: A screen and recoat typically takes only a day or two to complete, depending on the size of the project and the drying time required for the new coat of finish. In contrast, sanding and refinishing can take several days or even a week, since it involves sanding down to the bare wood, applying multiple coats of finish, and allowing each coat to dry fully.
Cost: A screen and recoat is generally less expensive than sanding and refinishing, since it requires fewer materials and less labor. Sanding and refinishing involves more extensive preparation, such as moving furniture, covering surfaces, and sanding down to the bare wood, which adds to the cost.
Appearance: A screen and recoat is best suited for floors that are in relatively good condition, with minor scratches, dullness, or wear. If your floors are deeply scratched, dented, or have water damage, sanding and refinishing may be the better option. Additionally, if you want to change the color or sheen of your floors, sanding and refinishing may be the only option, since a screen and recoat does not alter the color of the existing finish.
Durability: Both a screen and recoat and sanding and refinishing can restore the durability of your hardwood floors, but sanding and refinishing typically provides a more long-lasting result. This is because sanding down to the bare wood removes any surface imperfections and allows for a new layer of finish to adhere directly to the wood.
Ultimately, the decision between a screen and recoat and sanding and refinishing depends on the condition of your floors, your budget, and your desired outcome. If your floors are in relatively good condition and you want a quick and cost-effective solution, a screen and recoat may be the best option. However, if your floors require more extensive repair or you want to change the color or sheen of your floors, sanding and refinishing may be the better choice. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and determine the best course of action for your hardwood floors.
Here is something you need to consider before deciding you want to have a screen and recoat on your hardwood floors:
Furniture needs to be off the floors for 48 hours.
Pets need to be off the floors for 48 hours. We don’t want their paws scratching up your new finish.
You need to wait 12 hours before walking on the floors
It takes 2 coats to apply, and takes approximately 3 hours to dry in between coats.