How Long Do Hardwood Floors Last?

Hardwood floors is the most popular style of flooring for homeowners in the United States. The timeless look and feel add value and spirit to any home. However, the question of longevity always comes to mind before any hardwood installation. This article will provide insight on just that, while also exploring how to keep your new hardwood floor in top shape as time goes by.

Proper care = Longer life

With proper care and upkeep, hardwood floors can last a lifetime. Even if you do not take the best care of your floor, hardwood still blows carpet out of the water if you are looking for longevity. While carpet has to be completely replaced every ten or so years, hardwood only requires a refinishing or recoating after extensive and visible wear and tear. This could mean over a decade before you need to worry. To gauge how well you are taking care of your hardwood flooring, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do I routinely clean my hardwood floors with the proper supplies?
  • Do I immediately clean up any spills?
  • Do you prevent your pets from scratching at or wearing down your floor?
  • Is your furniture properly padded to prevent indentations?

If you answered yes to these then you are in good shape! After installation, it is critical for the homeowner to take good care of the floor and treat it like the valuable asset it is.

When should I refinish?

Refinishing does not have to be a necessity. Many homeowners never refinish their hardwood, choosing to live with the sight of wear and tear. Depending on how much stress you put on your floor, it may be cheaper to go with a recoating than a full refinish. A recoating gives your hardwood that original “pop” it had when it was first installed. To keep that same new look, plan on a recoat every five or so years. Refinishing is recommended after over ten years. At that point floors with heavy traffic may begin to lose color or warp. If you still are not sure, you can always call Classic Floor Designs for a consultation.

Experienced Installers

Deciding who installs your floor is just as important as deciding the style and finish. If your hardwood is laid improperly, you could encounter premature wear and tear or even damage that could need professional repair. Classic Floor Designs has done work for the Oval Office of the White House, The Four Seasons Hotel, and the Masonic Temple in Baltimore. Rest assured that no matter how big or small the job is, we bring industry leading service and professionalism.

Contact Us

Get your vision started today! Let our 40 years of experience in the DC metropolitan area go to work for you. Call us at (202) 872-9860 for a FREE consultation on your homes future flooring. Whether it be hardwood, carpet, or tile, a professional at Classic Floor Designs will be there with you every step of the way.