Benefits of Screening and Coating for Hardwood Floors and Stairs


Estimated read time: 6 minutes

Your hardwood floors and stairs experience constant foot traffic, scratches, and wear over time.

For homeowners in Westminster, Colorado, professional hardwood refinishing is the best way to restore their shine and longevity.

Screening and recoating offers a simple yet effective solution to refresh your floors without the hassle and cost of full replacement.

“This is Keith Geist with Floor Visions. We’re here in Westminster, Colorado, screening and coating a set of stair treads and putting a final coat on the resand we did yesterday.”

Many homeowners assume that once their floors look worn, they must be replaced—but that’s not true!

A professional screening and coating process can extend the life of your hardwood for years, maintaining its beauty and structural integrity.

Refinished wooden staircase with a glossy finish
Refinished wooden staircase with a glossy finish

The Key Benefits of Screening & Coating Hardwood Floors

If your hardwood floors are looking dull, screening and recoating can be the perfect solution.

What Are the Main Benefits

  • Restores Shine & Beauty – Removes surface imperfections and enhances the natural grain.
  • Prevents Expensive Replacements – Protects the wood and prevents deep damage.
  • Extends Floor Life – Keeps your floors in great condition for years.
  • Fast & Affordable – Completed in just a day with minimal disruption.
  • Improves Safety – A fresh coat enhances grip and prevents slipping.

Let’s compare floor refinishing techniques to understand why screening and coating is a great option:

Hardwood Floor Refinishing Methods

Method Best For Time Required
Screening & Coating Floors with minor surface wear 1-2 Days
Full Sanding & Refinishing Deep scratches, discoloration 3-5 Days
Replacement Severely damaged floors 1-2 Weeks

With screening and recoating, you get a refreshed hardwood surface without the hassle of a full refinish.

How We Restore Your Hardwood Floors & Stairs

Refinishing your hardwood floors and stairs requires expert craftsmanship and the right techniques.

At Floor Visions, we follow a step-by-step process to ensure the best results.

1. Floor & Stair Assessment

Before starting, we evaluate the current condition of your floors and stairs:

  • Check for scratches, fading, and worn areas
  • Inspect stair treads for uneven wear
  • Identify any existing finish issues

2. Professional Screening

  • We use a fine sanding screen to gently remove surface imperfections.
  • Unlike full sanding, this process doesn’t strip away the original wood.

3. Applying the Protective Coating

  • A high-quality polyurethane or oil-based finish is applied.
  • This enhances durability and restores natural shine.

4. Final Inspection & Touch-Ups

  • We ensure the finish is evenly applied for a smooth, flawless look.
  • Any final buffing or polishing is completed for perfection.

This 4-step process allows us to bring back the beauty of your floors while protecting them for years.

Signs That Your Hardwood Floors Need Refinishing

Not sure if it’s time for screening and recoating?

Look for these common signs:

1. Visible Scratches & Scuff Marks

If your floors have light surface scratches, screening can smooth them out.

2. Fading or Dull Appearance

Over time, hardwood loses its protective finish, making it look dull and lifeless.

3. Difficulty Cleaning

If dirt and spills are absorbing into the wood instead of wiping off, your protective layer is wearing thin.

4. Uneven Wear on Stair Treads

Stairs take on more pressure than floors, causing treads to wear down faster.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to schedule a professional refinishing service.

How Westminster’s Climate Affects Hardwood Floors

Westminster, CO, experiences dry winters and fluctuating humidity, which can impact hardwood floors.

  1. Dry Air in Winter – Can cause wood to contract and create gaps.
  2. Summer Humidity – Expands the wood, leading to cupping or warping.
  3. Temperature Changes – Cause natural movement, stressing the finish.

Applying a protective topcoat with screening and recoating can help minimize seasonal damage and maintain durability.

Common Climate Effects on Hardwood

Climate Factor Effect on Hardwood Prevention Method
Dry Winter Air Gaps & shrinkage Maintain indoor humidity
High Humidity Warping & cupping Use dehumidifiers
Sun Exposure Fading color UV-blocking finishes

With regular maintenance and refinishing, your floors can withstand Colorado’s climate year-round.

Choosing the Right Hardwood Finish for Your Home

A quality finish not only enhances beauty but also protects your floors.

Here are some popular finish types to choose from:

1. Water-Based Finishes

  • Dries quickly and has low VOC emissions.
  • Ideal for homes needing fast turnaround times.

2. Oil-Based Finishes

  • Offers a richer, deeper color tone.
  • Provides superior durability for high-traffic areas.

3. Matte & Satin Finishes

  • Minimizes glare and dust visibility.
  • Great for homes with pets and children.

Comparing Hardwood Finishes

Finish Type Durability Drying Time
Water-Based Moderate 2-4 Hours
Oil-Based High 24 Hours
Satin/Matte High Varies

Selecting the right finish ensures your floors stay protected and beautiful for years.

Why We Think This is Important

Refinishing your hardwood floors and stairs is not just about looks—it’s about preserving your home’s value.

By choosing screening and recoating, you:

  • Avoid costly replacements
  • Protect your investment
  • Extend the life of your flooring

Westminster homeowners trust Floor Visions because of our expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Let us help you restore your floors and stairs to their former glory!

Refinished hardwood staircase with white risers and natural wood treads
Refinished hardwood staircase with white risers and natural wood treads

FAQs

How long does screening and recoating take?

Most screening and recoating projects can be completed within a day, depending on the size of the area and the number of coats applied. After the final coat is applied, it’s recommended to wait at least 24 hours before walking on the floor and 48-72 hours before placing furniture back. This quick process makes it a great option for homeowners looking to refresh their floors without major disruptions.

Is this process safe for all hardwood floors?

Yes, screening and recoating is a safe method for most hardwood and engineered wood floors, as long as the existing finish is intact. However, if your floors have been waxed, have deep scratches, or have a failing finish, they may require full sanding and refinishing instead. A professional assessment will determine whether screening is the right approach for your floors.

How often should I refinish my hardwood floors?

The frequency of refinishing depends on foot traffic, wear, and the type of finish used.  Regular refinishing helps prevent costly repairs and maintains the protective coating that keeps your hardwood floors looking their best.

Will this process remove deep scratches and gouges?

No, screening and recoating is designed to address minor surface imperfections such as light scratches, scuff marks, and dullness. For deep scratches, dents, or gouges, a full sanding and refinishing is necessary to completely restore the wood surface. If you’re unsure, a professional can inspect your floors and recommend the best restoration option.

Can I walk on my floors immediately after recoating?

After screening and recoating, you should avoid walking on the floors for at least 24 hours to allow the finish to cure properly. For best results wait 48-72 hours before placing furniture back to prevent dents or marks, avoid area rugs for at least 7 days to ensure the finish fully hardens, use soft socks when walking on the floor initially to prevent scuffing.

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