Credit: Jan-Erik Finnberg / Creative Commons
The biggest hardwood flooring replacement signs are usually unmistakable. Though hardwood floors are generally able to last for many decades, up to one-hundred years or more, in some instances, refinishing isn’t sufficient. There are times when too much damage is present and no amount of restoration will salvage the whole floor.
Hardwood Refinishing vs Hardwood Replacement
The great thing is, hardwood floor refinishing is generally an option. So, instead of having to rip out the old top floor and installing a new covering, you simply refurbish what’s already there. And, that really cuts down on time, effort, and cost.
Old-growth wood–typically, Douglas fir, oak and maple–has higher density and fewer defects than new wood, and often comes in lengths of 12 ft. or more, which you won’t find at a big-box store. Salvaging it from an old home takes time but saves money; boards wider than the standard 2 1/4-in. strips are particularly valuable. --Popular Mechanics
But, there are instances when replacement is the only real solution. Therefore, you should be in-the-know about what constitutes a necessity. In other words, it’s best to do small repairs or just refinish hardwood instead of outright replacement.
Lutz Hardwood Flooring Replacement Signs
There are instances when replacement is the only real solution. Therefore, you should be in-the-know about what constitutes a necessity. In other words, it’s best to do small repairs or just refinish hardwood instead of outright replacement. The good news is, there are some hardwood replacement symptoms you can look for:
- Separation. Temperature and moisture fluctuations can wreak havoc on hardwood. Over time, these two factors can cause the boards to gap and separate. If you see gaps and they don’t close during summer, replacement is probably the fix.
- Cupping. This happens when the edges begin to curl up but the middle stays flat and in-place. Over time, the edges will curl up more and more, eventually becoming all too obvious.
- Buckling. Hardwood can also pull away from the subfloor underneath. When this occurs, the hardwood buckles. Most often, buckling is the result of severe moisture exposure. Or, if a home experiences flooding. (If it’s due to flooding, the subfloor might also need some TLC.)
- Gouges. If a hardwood floor is littered with deep gouges, it’s often better to replace than refinish. Another consideration is how thick the boards are and the viability of removing another layer. Gouges are usually quite obvious and are also unsightly.
- Crowning. If the center rises in the boards but the edges remain in place, crowning is happening. Crowning generally occurs from moisture imbalances and does not naturally correct itself. Crowning generally worsens and isn’t an easy fix.
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