Sanding vs. Screening in Wilton: Restore Old Floors the Right Way | HardwoodFloorsLLC.com
Bring Your Floors Back to Life in Wilton
Hardwood floors are one of the most valuable and beautiful features of a home—but over time, even the best floors can lose their shine. If your floors in Wilton, CT or nearby cities like Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, or Stamford are looking dull, scratched, or worn down, you might be wondering: Do I need full sanding, or will screening do the job?
At All Hardwoods & Carpet | HardwoodFloorsLLC.com, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Fairfield County make the right call. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide which method will give your floors the refresh they need.
What Is Screening?
Screening, also called buffing, is a light refinishing method used to remove surface scratches and dullness from hardwood floors without cutting deep into the wood.
- It uses a fine abrasive screen to lightly scuff the finish.
- A new coat of polyurethane is then applied.
- It does not remove deep scratches, stains, or damage.
Best for:
- Light surface wear
- Minor dullness
- Homeowners looking for a quicker, lower-cost option
What Is Sanding?
Sanding involves completely removing the floor’s top layer (including finish and a thin layer of wood) using powerful sanding machines.
- Reveals fresh wood underneath.
- Removes deep scratches, stains, dents, and water damage.
- Allows for a brand-new stain color if desired.
Best for:
- Floors with heavy wear or deep damage
- Changing the floor’s color or sheen
- Older floors that haven’t been refinished in years
Which One Do You Need in Wilton?
Here’s how to tell:
| Condition | Go With |
|---|---|
| Light wear, no stains or dents | Screening |
| Deep scratches, pet stains, or discoloration | Sanding |
| Uneven boards or water damage | Sanding |
| You just want a fresh coat of finish | Screening |
| You want to change your floor color | Sanding |
Still not sure? Our Wilton-based floor pros can inspect your floors and give you an honest recommendation.
Cost Comparison
Generally speaking:
- Screening is more affordable – starting around $1–$2 per sq ft.
- Sanding is more labor-intensive – typically $3–$5 per sq ft (depending on condition and stain choice).
But keep in mind: choosing the wrong method could waste money and leave your floors looking worse. That’s why many homeowners in Wilton, Westport, and Ridgefield call in a professional.
How Long Does It Take?
- Screening: Usually completed in 1 day.
- Sanding: Can take 2–4 days, depending on floor size, stain, and drying time.
We always plan around your schedule and aim to get your home back to normal fast.
Trusted Floor Restoration in Wilton and Beyond
All Hardwoods & Carpet is known throughout Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, and Stamford for restoring wood floors with precision and care. With over 20 years of experience and a reputation for honest work, we take pride in offering both screening and full sanding services based on what’s right for your home.
Business Info
All Hardwoods & Carpet
194 Main St, Suite 2-NW
Norwalk, CT 06851
📞 (203) 687-4925
🌐 www.HardwoodFloorsLLC.com
Ready to Restore Your Floors the Right Way?
Don’t guess your way through floor restoration. Whether you’re in Wilton, Greenwich, Stamford, or anywhere in Fairfield County, we’re here to help.
👉 Call us today at (203) 687-4925 or book a free consultation online. Let’s bring your floors back to life—beautiful, strong, and built to last.
