What’s the Difference?
● Refinishing involves sanding down the top layer and applying a new stain and finish. It restores the original floor.
● Replacing means tearing out the old boards and installing brand-new hardwood or another material entirely.
Both options have their place depending on the condition of your floors, your budget, and the look you want.
Signs You Should Refinish Your Hardwood Floors
Refinishing is typically more affordable and can breathe new life into aging floors without the cost of full replacement.
Refinish if:
● The floor has minor surface scratches or dullness
● You see light scuff marks or discoloration
● The boards are still structurally sound (no movement or warping)
● You want to change the stain color or sheen
● The floor has been refinished fewer than 3 times before
Hardwood floors can usually be refinished 2–3 times in their lifetime, depending on the thickness of the planks.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Floors
There comes a point when refinishing won’t cut it. Full replacement may be the better long-term solution if:
● The boards are deeply gouged, cracked, or warped
● You’re dealing with water damage or mold
● The floor is creaking or shifting underfoot
● You’ve already refinished it multiple times
● You want a completely different style, wood species, or layout
In these cases, replacement not only looks better—it may actually be more cost-effective than trying to patch up old damage.
Cost Comparison: Refinishing vs. Replacing
● Refinishing hardwood in Oklahoma typically costs $3–$5 per sq. ft.
● Replacing with new hardwood often ranges from $7–$12 per sq. ft., depending on materials
● Luxury vinyl or engineered hardwood may lower costs and offer added durability
Refinishing is more budget-friendly in the short term, but if damage is extensive, replacement can save money down the road.
What About Engineered Hardwood?
Some engineered hardwoods can be refinished once, but not all. If your floor is engineered, check the thickness of the top layer before sanding—or consult a local expert like Soto Flooring.
From the Experts at Soto Flooring
Not sure what’s best for your home? We offer free assessments across the OKC metro and can help you determine whether your floors still have life left—or if it’s time for an upgrade.
Whether you choose to refinish or replace, our team makes the process easy, affordable, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
If your hardwood floors are showing signs of age, don’t wait until the damage gets worse. Whether it’s a light refinish or a full replacement, fresh floors can completely transform your space.
Contact Soto Flooring today to schedule your free consultation and get expert guidance on what’s best for your home and your budget.
