If you don’t know when it’s time to refinish your floors, a quick check of high-traffic areas like the front door, sliding doors and around your pet’s food/water bowls can reveal a lot. These areas will usually be the first places to show signs that the floor’s finish is wearing thin. The easiest way to tell if refinishing is needed is by looking for dull spots, discoloration or uneven sheen in the finish. Whether your floors are natural or stained, these visual changes are clear indicators that the protective layers have worn away. When the finish is gone, the wood is left exposed and vulnerable to scratches, moisture damage, and stains. It’s important to remember that discoloration doesn’t always mean your floors are already damaged—it often just means they’re unprotected. Refinishing at this stage can prevent deeper damage and keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come. If you’re unsure, a professional can assess the condition of your floors and help you determine whether it’s time to refinish.

By John Mattie Owner of Mattie’s Hardwood Flooring Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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