Hardwood Floor Refinishing Glossary
Common Hardwood Flooring Terms
Hardwood floor refinishing includes many technical terms that may be unfamiliar to homeowners. This glossary explains common refinishing terminology in clear, easy-to-understand language, helping you better understand the restoration process, communicate with your contractor, and make informed decisions throughout your project.
Whether you are preparing for your first refinishing project or expanding your knowledge, this glossary serves as a helpful reference.
Common Refinishing Terms
Board Replacement
Removing damaged hardwood boards and installing new boards that match the existing flooring before refinishing.
Buffing
A light abrasion process used to prepare an existing finish for a maintenance coat without sanding down to bare wood.
Color Development
The process of selecting and applying stain colors to achieve the desired appearance while complementing the natural characteristics of the wood.
Finish System
The complete combination of sealers and protective finish coats applied during the refinishing process.
Maintenance Coat
A protective finish applied to an existing floor before the finish wears completely through to the bare wood.
Moisture Testing
Measuring the moisture content of hardwood and subfloors to identify conditions that may affect refinishing or long-term floor performance.
Refinishing
Removing the existing finish, preparing the hardwood surface, and applying a new finish system to restore the floor.
Sanding
The process of removing the old finish and smoothing the hardwood using professional floor sanding equipment.
Sealer
The first protective coating applied to hardwood before finish coats are added.
Sheen
The level of light reflection in the finished floor, commonly available in matte, satin, and gloss.
Why Understanding Terminology Matters
Learning common refinishing terms helps homeowners communicate more effectively with their contractor while developing a better understanding of the restoration process. Familiarity with these terms also makes it easier to compare estimates, evaluate recommendations, and understand project expectations.
Knowledge leads to more confident decision-making.
Continue Learning
This glossary introduces many of the most frequently used hardwood flooring terms, but every refinishing project presents unique conditions. Exploring additional guides throughout our Hardwood Floor Refinishing Resource Center provides even greater insight into the refinishing process and long-term hardwood floor care.
Why Homeowners Choose Recoatings
Recoatings combines decades of hardwood flooring experience with skilled sanding, thoughtful color development, premium finish systems, and honest recommendations. We believe informed homeowners make better decisions, which is why we strive to explain every stage of the refinishing process using clear, straightforward language.
Continue Exploring
Learn more about our company and our work:
These pages explain our hardwood floor refinishing process, showcase completed hardwood floor projects, and introduce the experience and craftsmanship behind Recoatings.