Hardwood Floors June/July 2026

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REPAIR AND REFINISHING CONSIDERATIONS Repairing or refinishing wood surfaces depends heavily on the type of finish. Film building finishes, such as polyurethane or

Furniture and cabinetry often may use softer woods chosen for their appearance or workability, such as pine, alder, or decorative plywood veneers. These materials may be more sensitive to impact but are less exposed to abrasive forces. Finish Types Finishes differ significantly between the two categories. Wood flooring commonly uses high-durability, traffic-rated finishes such as polyurethane, hardwax oils, or penetrating oils. These finishes are engineered to withstand abrasion and repeated cleaning. Furniture and cabinetry finishes vary widely. They may include precatalyzed lacquers, conversion varnishes, paints, oils, or waxes. These finishes prioritize appearance and feel and are not designed for the same level of physical stress as floor finishes.

lacquer, are difficult to repair in isolated spots. A small repair often stands out, requiring the entire surface to be recoated for a uniform appearance. For furniture and cabinetry, this often means spraying finishes in controlled environments to avoid overspray and achieve a smooth result. Hardwax oils and penetrating oils offer more flexibility. Because they soak into the wood rather than forming a thick film, spot repairs usually are easier and less noticeable. This makes them appealing to contractors or homeowners who prefer simpler maintenance and repair options.

Johannes Boonstra is senior technical manager for Rubio Monocoat USA. He can be reached at johannes@rubiomonocoatusa.com.

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

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