Sanding vs. Screening: Which Refinishing Method Is Right for Your Floors?

Jul 13

When your hardwood floors start to show signs of wear, refinishing can breathe new life into them. But not every refinishing job requires the same process. Two common methods are sanding and screening, each suited for different levels of damage and finish goals. Understanding the difference between these techniques is key to choosing the right option for your floor’s condition, budget, and long-term durability.

This article explores the pros and cons of sanding and screening, when to use each, and what to expect in terms of cost, appearance, and maintenance.

What Is Floor Sanding?

Floor sanding is a deep refinishing process that removes the top layers of wood using abrasive sanding machines. It strips away old finish, scratches, stains, and minor surface damage, exposing fresh wood underneath.

When to Choose Sanding:

Deep scratches, gouges, or dents
Water stains or discoloration
Worn-through finish exposing raw wood
Uneven or cupped boards
Changing stain color or switching to a natural finish

Sanding is usually followed by staining (if desired) and sealing with a protective topcoat such as polyurethane.

Pros of Sanding:

Restores heavily damaged floors
Allows complete color change
Smooths uneven surfaces
Increases floor longevity

Cons of Sanding:

More expensive and labor-intensive
Generates dust and requires more cleanup
Removes a thin layer of wood (can’t be done unlimited times)

What Is Floor Screening?

Screening, also known as buffing or screen and recoat, is a lighter refinishing process. It scuffs the existing topcoat using a mesh screen or sanding pad, preparing it for a new coat of finish without removing any wood.

When to Choose Screening:

Surface-level scratches and dullness
Minor wear and tear in high-traffic areas
Finish is intact (no bare wood showing)
Floors need a maintenance refresh

Screening is faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective than full sanding.

Pros of Screening:

Quick and affordable
Minimal dust and disruption
Extends life of existing finish
Great for routine maintenance

Cons of Screening:

Doesn’t fix deep scratches or damage
Won’t remove stains or color inconsistencies
Doesn’t allow stain color change

Key Differences Between Sanding and Screening

Feature	Sanding	Screening
Depth of Refinishing	Deep (removes wood layer)	Surface-level (removes finish only)
Purpose	Repair damage, change appearance	Refresh existing finish
Time & Labor	High	Low
Cost	Higher	Lower
Dust Generation	Significant	Minimal
Frequency Possible	Limited (depends on wood thickness)	More frequent

How to Decide Which Is Right for Your Floors

To choose between sanding and screening, assess the current condition of your floors:

Choose Sanding If:

The finish is worn away in areas
There are visible deep scratches or stains
You want to change the color of the wood
The floorboards feel uneven or warped

Choose Screening If:

The finish is dull or slightly scratched
You want to refresh the topcoat for protection
The stain and color are still appealing
You need a cost-effective maintenance option

Cost Comparison

Refinishing costs can vary depending on floor size, condition, and region. Here's a general breakdown:

Sanding and refinishing: $3 to $8 per square foot
Screening and recoating: $1 to $3 per square foot

Screening is significantly cheaper and faster, but it’s not a substitute for full restoration.

Maintenance Tips After Refinishing

Whether you choose sanding or screening, proper maintenance will extend your floor’s life:

Use felt pads under furniture
Sweep or vacuum regularly
Clean with hardwood-safe products
Avoid water spills and excessive moisture
Recoat every 3–5 years (screening) or as needed

Environmental Impact

Both methods can be eco-friendly when done responsibly:

Sanding: Generates wood dust, but many modern machines have vacuum attachments.
Screening: Uses fewer materials and is less wasteful, as it preserves the wood layer.

Choose low-VOC polyurethane or water-based finishes for improved indoor air quality.

Professional vs. DIY

While DIY screening is possible for handy homeowners, professional sanding is strongly recommended due to the skill and equipment required. Improper sanding can cause irreversible damage like uneven surfaces or swirl marks.

If you're unsure, consult a flooring professional for an assessment. They can recommend the right approach based on your floor's wood type, wear level, and aesthetic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I screen a floor that has deep scratches?
No. Screening only addresses surface issues. Deep scratches, dents, or exposed wood require full sanding to restore the floor.
How often can I sand my hardwood floors?
Most solid hardwood floors can be sanded 4–6 times over their lifetime. The exact number depends on the thickness of the wear layer.
Does screening change the color of the floor?
No. Screening only scuffs the topcoat. To change color, you need to sand down to the bare wood and apply a new stain.
Is screening worth it if I just want a shine back?
Yes. Screening is ideal for refreshing dull finishes and restoring shine without altering the wood itself.
What type of finish works best after sanding or screening?
Water-based polyurethane dries faster and has lower VOCs. Oil-based polyurethane is more durable and gives a warmer tone. Choose based on your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

When comparing sanding vs. screening, the best method depends on your floor’s current condition and your long-term goals. Sanding is ideal for full restorations or major changes, while screening offers a low-cost way to maintain beauty and protect your hardwood floors.

For homeowners unsure of the right approach, a professional floor inspection can help you make a confident, informed decision.