A hardwood refinishing project can improve the appearance of your floors and extend their lifespan. Floor refinishing involves sanding the boards to remove surface blemishes and applying a surface finish to seal and protect the wood. There are many types of finishes on the market, and they perform differently in various conditions and environments. Here are four tips to help you choose the right products to refinish your hardwood floors.

Assess the Traffic in the Room

Floor refinishing products perform differently when exposed to different levels of foot traffic. Floors in busy rooms, such as the living room and kitchen, are usually prone to dents, scratches, and stains. They require a sealant that can withstand heavy traffic and resist stains and scratches. Polyurethane and oil-based finishes are suitable for high-traffic areas of the home, including rooms frequented by kids and pets. Wax and water-based finishes scratch easily; thus, they are ideal for flooring in low-traffic rooms, such as bedrooms, walk-in closets, and home offices.

Consider the Amount of Natural Lighting

The amount of natural light in each room can guide you in picking the right finish for the space. Rooms with ample natural light work well with clear, glossy, and light-colored wood finishes. These finishes reflect natural light and make the room appear larger and brighter. Conversely, rooms with little natural light work well with dark finishes. These stains absorb light to create a cozy, relaxed ambiance, especially in the bedrooms and bathrooms. You can also use matte finishes to achieve a soft, subtle look on your wood floors.

Note the Required Level of Maintenance 

Wax and water-based finishes wear out easily; thus, they require frequent touch-ups. Therefore, if you use these sealants in high-traffic areas, you must re-stain your floors regularly to maintain curb appeal. Conversely, polyurethane and oil-based finishes are durable and resistant to wear. They can last a long time without requiring frequent touch-ups, even in high-traffic areas of the home. Therefore, if you are looking for low-maintenance products, opt for oil-based or polyurethane floor sealants.

Consider the Length of the Project

The length of a floor refinishing project depends on the drying time of the finishes. The time varies based on indoor humidity, ambient temperatures, and ventilation. Water-based, polyurethane, and wax finishes generally take a few hours to dry. Conversely, oil-based finishes take longer to dry, which increases the time needed to apply multiple coats. Therefore, you may need to vacate the house for several days to facilitate the application.

You don't have to use the same finish throughout the house. Consider each room's unique needs and choose the right floor finishes for the space. However, apply the finishes correctly to achieve a cohesive look in the home. Contact a flooring contractor for professional hardwood refinishing services.