You don’t have to replace your hardwood floors to give them a new look. There are many ways to refresh and update your floors without breaking the bank. Here are some tips and tricks from the experts.

 

Clean or Cover

One of the easiest ways to make your hardwood floors look better is to clean them thoroughly. A professional power scrubber and a hardwood-specific cleaner can remove dirt and stains that have accumulated over time. Then, you can apply a polish and shine product to restore the gloss and protect the surface from scratches and scuffs.

Another option is to use a large, stylish rug or a collection of rug tiles to hide any imperfections that are too deep to clean. This can also add some color and texture to your room and create a cozy atmosphere.

 

Switch the Sheen

The sheen of your floors can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your space. You can change the sheen by applying a new top coat to your floors. For a rustic or farmhouse look, you can choose a matte finish that has a low gloss. For a modern or sleek look, you can go for a glossy finish that reflects more light.

However, keep in mind that the higher the sheen, the more visible the flaws in your floor will be. You may want to do some professional cleaning and prep work before applying a high-gloss top coat. You may also want to consider the amount of traffic and wear your floors get and choose a top coat that offers enough protection and durability.

 

Try a New Color

Another way to transform your hardwood floors is to change their color with a new stain. You can match the color of your stain to the color scheme of your home or try something different for a contrast. For example, brown stains are more classic and timeless, gray stains are more trendy and contemporary, and whitewashed stains are more airy and relaxed.

Depending on the type and brand of stain, you may be able to mix colors and hues to create a custom color that suits your taste. You should also consider the design and style of your home when choosing a color for your floors.

Most stains have fast-drying and low-odor ingredients that make the process easier and less stressful. However, you will need to sand your floors before staining them, so you may want to hire a professional to do the job.

 

Add Some Depth

One of the features that makes hardwood floors so attractive and luxurious is the natural grain pattern of the wood. You can enhance the character and beauty of your floors by using a natural oil finish that brings out the grain and adds a warm feel. Natural oil finishes are also more eco-friendly, as they have the lowest VOCs (volatile organic compounds) compared to water- and oil-based finishes.

You can also create a custom look by blending two tones of natural oil finishes together. Some natural oil finishes can dry in as little as 8 hours, and they stain, seal, and protect your floors in one application.

 

Add Some Texture

If you want to add some texture and dimension to your hardwood floors, you can opt for a wire-brushing technique that removes the softer grains of the wood and exposes the harder grains. This can create a more rustic and natural look for your floors. You will need to hire a professional who can wire-brush your existing floors and seal them afterward. This usually takes a two-person crew one day per 1,000 square feet of flooring.