Screening (or buffing) and recoating is a maintenance procedure that extends the life of a hardwood floor by rejuvenating the wear layer. By lightly abrading the surface with a screen, you create a mechanical key for a new coat of finish to bond. This process is effective only if the existing finish is still intact and the wood surface has not been breached. Once the wood has been exposed, a full sand-and-refinish is usually required to restore the floor's integrity.
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How often can I screen and recoat wood floors?
Screening and recoating can typically be performed every 3 to 5 years, depending on traffic levels. This process removes only the very top layer of the existing finish, allowing a fresh coat to adhere without requiring the removal of the wood material itself.