Can engineered wood flooring be sanded and refinished?

Yes, engineered wood flooring can generally be sanded and refinished, although it has its limitations compared to solid wood flooring.

Engineered wood flooring is made up of multiple layers of wood or plywood, with a top layer of hardwood veneer. The thickness of the top layer varies but is typically 2-6mm. This construction makes engineered wood more stable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity than solid wood, but it also limits how many times it can be sanded and refinished.

The number of times engineered wood flooring can be sanded depends on the thickness of the hardwood veneer layer. Thicker top layers allow for more sanding. For example, a 6mm veneer may be able to withstand 2-3 refinishing processes, while a thinner 2mm veneer may only handle 1-2 refinishes.

When sanding engineered wood flooring, it is crucial to hire a professional who has experience working with this type of material. The sanding process should be done carefully to prevent sanding through the veneer layer. Once the sanding is complete, the floor can be refinished with stain and a protective layer of sealant, just like solid wood flooring.

However, it is important to note that not all engineered wood floors can be sanded and refinished. Some lower quality or extremely thin veneers may not have enough material to handle sanding. Additionally, certain engineered wood floors come with a factory finish that cannot be fully removed or refinished.

Before attempting to sand and refinish engineered wood flooring, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's guidelines or seek professional advice. They can provide specific information about the thickness of the veneer layer and whether it is suitable for refinishing.

In conclusion, while engineered wood flooring can be sanded and refinished, it has limitations compared to solid wood flooring. The number of times it can be refinished depends on the thickness of the hardwood veneer layer, and it is important to hire professionals with experience in working with engineered wood to ensure the process is done correctly and does not damage the flooring.