Should you refurbish or replace your flooring? No more dilemmas after reading this article

Model: | Date:2026-03-20

Introduction: When the old floorboards in your home show signs of scratches, discoloration, or even partial damage, should you consider having them refurbished and polished, or simply remove and reinstall them entirely? This decision involves a comprehensive consideration of cost, effectiveness, and time.
Main text:
Renovation and replacement each have their own advantages and disadvantages. By evaluating from the following dimensions, you can make a choice that suits you.
1. What situations are suitable for renovation?
Floor type: Only applicable to solid wood flooring and solid wood composite flooring with a thicker surface layer (surface layer thickness ≥4mm). The surface layer of laminate flooring consists of a wear-resistant layer and decorative paper, and polishing will directly damage the surface, making it impossible to refurbish.
Basic conditions: The overall structure of the floor is intact, with no obvious signs of mold, insect infestation, large-scale arching, or loosening. The only issues are wear and tear on the surface paint film, scratches, or discoloration.
Limited budget: The cost of renovation is significantly lower than that of replacement, typically ranging from 30% to 50% of the replacement cost.
Pursuing environmental protection: Retaining the original flooring avoids the construction waste and material consumption caused by demolition and replacement, making it more environmentally friendly.
II. Under what circumstances is it suitable to replace with a new one?
The floor is severely damaged: there are large areas of deformation, arching, mold, insect infestation, or decayed and loose joists, making the repair cost too high.
Type not applicable: originally laminate flooring, unable to be refurbished; or original solid wood flooring with insufficient surface thickness (≤2mm), which may reveal the joint grooves after sanding.
Significant style change: The overall decoration style has undergone a complete transformation, with the old flooring color and specifications no longer matching the new design.
Upgrade requirements: If you wish to improve the thermal conductivity, sound insulation, or foot feel of your underfloor heating, you may need to replace it with a more advanced flooring product.
III. Cost comparison between renovation and replacement
Renovation cost: Typically includes processes such as sanding, caulking, painting/oiling, etc. It is charged by area, with a cost of approximately 80-150 yuan per square meter (depending on the craftsmanship and materials).
Replacement cost: including the removal of old flooring, floor leveling, new flooring material cost, and installation cost, the total cost is much higher than renovation.
IV. Renovation precautions
Seek a professional team: Renovation requires high standards for equipment and craftsmanship. Non-professionals are prone to uneven polishing and uneven painting.
Construction environment: During the renovation process, a large amount of dust and paint odor will be generated, requiring the room to be emptied and protective measures to be taken.
Schedule: Renovation typically takes 3-7 days (including drying time), and reasonable arrangements for occupancy are required.

Conclusion: If the old flooring is still in good condition, refurbishment is a highly cost-effective option; if it is severely damaged or does not meet the needs of the new home, replacing it is a once-and-for-all solution.