Terminology
- Wear layer: the top layer of real wood on engineered flooring that can be sanded.
- Screen and recoat (buff and coat): abrading the existing finish and adding new topcoats without sanding to bare wood.
- Full refinish: sanding to bare wood, then optional stain and new finish.
- Weaving: replacing boards back to staggered joints so a repair blends into the pattern.
- Cupping: board edges higher than the center, usually from moisture below.
- Acclimation: letting flooring adjust to the home's conditions before installation, when the manufacturer or contractor recommends it.
Sources
Content reviewed: 2026-10-25. This information is general, not a property inspection.
Questions homeowners ask
- What is the difference between sanding and recoating?
- Sanding removes the finish and some wood down to bare wood. Recoating only scuffs the top finish and adds a new coat. Recoating cannot change color or remove deep wear.
- Can every floor be refinished?
- No. Floors with exhausted wear layers, severe damage or some thin-veneer engineered products may not be good candidates.
- Why does wax matter?
- Wax and some polishes can prevent new finish from bonding. They may need extra removal work or rule out a recoat.
- Can I go from a dark stain to a light natural floor?
- Often, with a full sand, because sanding removes the old color. Some species and deep stains limit how light the result can be. Samples on your floor are the best test.
- How long before I can put furniture back?
- It depends on the specific finish product, coats and conditions. Ask your contractor and check the product label.
- Is sanding dust-free?
- No. Dust containment reduces dust a lot, but no one can honestly promise zero dust.
Related services
- Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Sand to bare wood, optional stain, new finish coats. Hardwood Floor Refinishing estimate requests for Dunwoody, GA homes, referred to independent local contractors.
- Hardwood Floor Repair
Board replacement, patching, gaps and localized damage. Hardwood Floor Repair estimate requests for Dunwoody, GA homes, referred to independent local contractors.
- Hardwood Screen and Recoat
Light abrasion and a fresh finish coat, no sanding to bare wood. Hardwood Screen and Recoat estimate requests for Dunwoody, GA homes, referred to independent local contractors.
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