If the floor is a good candidate for refinishing, sanding removes the existing finish and stain, exposing fresh wood that can often be stained a completely different color.
Not Every Floor Accepts Stain the Same Way
Although changing the color is often possible, the final appearance depends on the species of wood already installed in your home.
Oak, for example, accepts stain very well and offers a wide range of color options. Maple, on the other hand, has a much tighter grain and can be more challenging to stain evenly. Other species each have their own unique characteristics.
For that reason, selecting a stain isn't simply choosing a color from a sample board. The existing wood plays an important role in the final result.
Lighter to Darker...and Darker to Lighter
Many homeowners assume it's easy to make a light floor dark and impossible to make a dark floor lighter. The reality is a little more complicated.
Since refinishing removes the existing finish and stain, many color changes are possible. However, previous stain colors, the condition of the wood and the number of times the floor has been refinished can all influence the final appearance.
An inspection is the best way to determine what's realistically achievable.
Samples Eliminate Guesswork
Choosing a stain from a small brochure can be difficult. That's why many homeowners ask to see stain samples on their own floor before making a final decision.
Viewing several colors on the actual wood, under your home's lighting conditions, provides a much better representation than a printed sample or photograph.
Should You Change the Color?
A color change can dramatically transform the appearance of a room without replacing the hardwood flooring itself. Many homeowners use refinishing as an opportunity to modernize an older floor or better match a recent remodel.
Others discover that the natural beauty of the wood is exactly what they were looking for all along and choose a clear finish instead of stain.
Professional Advice Makes the Difference
If you're considering changing the color of your hardwood floors, a professional evaluation can help determine what options are available for your particular floor.
If you're unsure whether your existing hardwood can even be refinished, our article Can Wood Flooring Be Repaired or Refinished? explains what professionals look for before recommending refinishing.
You may also find our article How Much Does Hardwood Floor Refinishing Cost? helpful when planning your project and comparing available options.
Changing the color of your hardwood floors is often one of the most dramatic improvements you can make to your home. The key is understanding what your existing floor will allow before making your final decision.
