Is It Possible to Refinish Engineered Wood Floors?
The Short Answer: Yes!
You can refinish engineered wood floors because the top layer, or “wear layer,” is made of real hardwood. However, before you start refinishing, it’s important to understand the structure of engineered wood floors to determine whether refinishing is suitable for your floor.
Engineered wood flooring consists of a high-quality plywood base, with a thin top layer made from real hardwood. This construction allows engineered wood floors to have a similar appearance and texture to solid hardwood floors.
Whether your engineered wood floors can be refinished depends on the thickness of the wear layer. If the wear layer is thick enough, refinishing is possible. If it’s too thin, refinishing may not be advisable.
Engineered Wood Floor Thickness:
Typically, engineered wood boards range from 10-20mm in thickness, with the wear layer being about 1-3mm thick. The thickness can vary depending on the manufacturer, quality of the boards, and the construction method used.
If your wear layer is thicker than 2mm, you can generally refinish your floor. Sanding removes approximately 1mm of the surface, so if your wear layer is around 3mm, you can refinish it twice.
Why You Might Not Want to Refinish Your Engineered Wood Floors in Malaysia
There are certain situations where refinishing engineered wood floors is not recommended. Here are some reasons to consider:
Insufficient Wear Layer Thickness
If the wear layer on your engineered wood floor is too thin, there won’t be enough material to safely refinish the floor. If the floor has already been refinished in the past, it’s best not to attempt refinishing again, as doing so could damage the floor.
Risk of Damage
Improper sanding, especially if done by an inexperienced person, can cause uneven surfaces, scratches, or dents on the floor. Engineered wood is more prone to damage compared to solid hardwood, as the top layer is thinner and less resistant to wear and tear.
Factory Finish
Engineered wood floors often come with a factory-applied finish designed for durability. Refinishing removes this protective layer and can impact the stability and longevity of your floor.
Mold or Rot Issues
If you’re refinishing your engineered wood floors due to mildew or rot, it’s important to check the extent of the damage. Refinishing only addresses surface mildew. If the core of the engineered wood is affected by mold or rot, replacing the entire board is the better solution.
Why You Should Refinish Your Engineered Wood Floors in Malaysia
Refinishing your engineered wood floors can provide several benefits, similar to refinishing solid hardwood floors. Here’s why you might want to refinish your engineered wood floors:
Renewed Appearance
With time, engineered wood floors can become scratched, dull, or discolored due to everyday use or sun exposure. Refinishing restores the floor’s original beauty, giving it a fresh, vibrant look.
Improved Durability
The refinishing process involves sanding the top layer to remove imperfections and expose a fresh layer of wood. Applying a new protective finish enhances the floor’s durability, helping it withstand wear and tear for years to come.
Cost-Effective
Refinishing engineered wood floors is a more budget-friendly option compared to replacing the entire floor. It’s a cost-effective way to extend the life of your floor without the significant expense of installing new flooring.
Preserved Home Value
Well-maintained floors can add value to your property. If you plan on selling your home in the future, refinishing your engineered wood floors may increase the appeal and help you secure a better price.
Need Quality Engineered Wood in Malaysia?
If you’re looking for top-quality engineered wood in Malaysia, Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd offers a wide range of durable and aesthetically pleasing wood products. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current floors or install new ones, we provide premium wood solutions that are perfect for any project. Visit Creatimber to learn more about our products and services.
