Is it really necessary to refinish your hardwood floors?

It's recommended but situational: worth doing for many homes, though skipping it won't usually cause damage on its own.

How often should you refinish your hardwood floors?

Quick answer: Every 10 years. The finish wears out, not the floor. Refinishing every decade or so is what lets a solid hardwood floor last indefinitely.

Why it matters

Upkeep & performance

These tasks are more about efficiency, longevity, and comfort. Not a huge deal if you miss one, but it pays off over time.

Staying on schedule matters beyond the repair bill: a consistent maintenance record is one of the factors in a home's Roots Home Health Score, and well-kept homes typically sell faster and closer to asking price.

Related systems to keep on schedule

Roof — start with: inspect roof for damage, once a year, ideally in May
Gutters & downspouts — start with: clean gutters and downspouts, every 6 months
Chimney / fireplace — start with: schedule chimney sweep and inspection, once a year, ideally in September
Garage door opener — start with: test garage door opener backup battery, once a year

The bottom line

“According to Roots' home maintenance model, you should refinish your hardwood floors every 10 years. It's a recommended task for many homes with a hardwood flooring.” — Roots home maintenance model

Free tool Get your home's full maintenance checklist This is one of dozens of tasks your home needs. Answer three quick questions and get a seasonal checklist tuned to your home. It takes about 30 seconds and there is no signup.

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Frequently asked questions

How often should you refinish your hardwood floors?: Every 10 years. The finish wears out, not the floor. Refinishing every decade or so is what lets a solid hardwood floor last indefinitely.
Is it really necessary to refinish your hardwood floors?: It’s recommended but situational: worth doing for many homes, though skipping it won’t usually cause damage on its own.

Never think about this schedule again.

Roots builds your home's maintenance plan automatically: every task above, timed to your home, with reminders and a Home Health Score that tracks your progress.

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