Why Georgia’s Climate Impacts Hardwood Floor Longevity
If you live in Alpharetta, Cumming, or Roswell, you already know how Georgia’s humid climate can take a toll on your home. The combination of high humidity, frequent rain, and temperature fluctuations can cause wood floors to expand, contract, and wear down faster than in drier climates.
Over time, this leads to visible damage like scratches, cupping, and discoloration—all signs that your hardwood floors may need refinishing.
So how often should you refinish your hardwood floors in Georgia? The answer depends on several factors, including your home’s location, the type of wood, and how well your floors are maintained.
In this guide, we’ll explore how often to refinish, signs to look for, and expert tips to keep your hardwood floors in top shape despite Georgia’s challenging climate.
How Often Should You Refinish Hardwood Floors in Alpharetta, Cumming & Roswell?
In general, hardwood floors should be refinished every 7 to 10 years, but in Georgia’s humid climate, homeowners may need to refinish sooner—typically every 5 to 7 years. The reason? Moisture and heat accelerate wood expansion and contraction, leading to premature wear.
Factors That Affect Refinishing Frequency:
- Humidity Levels: More moisture increases the risk of warping, cupping, or gaps between planks.
- Foot Traffic: High-traffic areas like living rooms and kitchens may require refinishing sooner.
- Wood Type: Softer woods like pine scratch more easily than harder woods like oak or maple.
- Previous Finishing Method: Oil-based polyurethane finishes typically last longer than water-based finishes.
- Proper Maintenance: Regular cleaning and humidity control can extend the time between refinishing.
Signs That Your Hardwood Floors Need Refinishing
Not sure if it’s time to refinish your floors? Look for these common warning signs:
Visible Wear & Tear
- Scratches and dents that penetrate the finish.
- Dull, faded appearance even after cleaning.
- Water damage stains from spills or humidity.
Wood Movement Issues
- Cupping – Edges of planks are higher than the center due to excess moisture.
- Gapping – Spaces between planks are widening from humidity fluctuations.
- Buckling – Boards lifting away from the subfloor, often after water damage.
Finish Is Wearing Off
- If you pour a small amount of water on your floor and it absorbs within seconds, your protective finish is gone.
Best Finishing Options for Georgia’s Humid Climate
Since humidity is a major factor in wood floor wear, choosing the right finish is crucial for longevity.
Recommended Hardwood Floor Finishes:
| Finish Type | Durability | Best For |
| Oil-Based Polyurethane | 10+ years | High-traffic areas, superior moisture resistance |
| Water-Based Polyurethane | 5-7 years | Quick drying, lower VOCs, slightly less durable than oil-based |
| Hard Wax Oil | 4-6 years | Natural look, lower sheen, needs regular maintenance |
| Penetrating Sealers | 5+ years | Enhances wood grain, less protective against scratches |
For Georgia’s climate, oil-based polyurethane is often the best choice, providing strong moisture protection and durability.
Maintaining Hardwood Floors in Georgia to Extend Time Between Refinishing
Taking care of your hardwood floors properly can help delay the need for refinishing.
Daily & Weekly Maintenance Tips:
✔ Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
✔ Use area rugs in high-traffic zones to minimize wear.
✔ Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water damage.
✔ Maintain indoor humidity levels between 35-55% to reduce expansion and contraction.
✔ Avoid wet mopping—opt for a damp microfiber mop instead.
Best Hardwood Floor Refinishing Manufacturers
If you’re looking for high-quality refinishing products, these top manufacturers offer the best finishes, stains, and maintenance solutions for Georgia’s humid climate.
Top Hardwood Floor Refinishing Brands:
- Bona – Known for water-based finishes and professional refinishing systems.
- Minwax – Provides durable polyurethane finishes for residential use.
- Duraseal – Offers high-performance stains and sealers for professional-grade refinishing.
- Fabulon – Specializes in high-traffic wood floor finishes.
- Glitsa – Produces fast-drying Swedish finishes for added durability.
FAQ: Refinishing Hardwood Floors in Georgia’s Humid Climate
How can I protect my hardwood floors from Georgia’s humidity?
Keep humidity levels between 35-55% using a humidifier in winter and dehumidifier in summer.
Can I refinish my hardwood floors myself?
Yes, but hiring a professional ensures proper sanding, staining, and sealing, which leads to longer-lasting results.
How long does refinishing take?
Most refinishing jobs take 2-5 days, depending on drying times and the type of finish used.
Should I choose oil-based or water-based polyurethane for refinishing?
For Georgia’s humid climate, oil-based polyurethane provides better moisture resistance and durability.
How much does hardwood floor refinishing cost in Alpharetta, Cumming, and Roswell?
Costs range from $3 to $6 per square foot, depending on wood type, finish selection, and labor rates.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Hardwood Floors in Georgia
Living in Alpharetta, Cumming, or Roswell means dealing with high humidity and fluctuating temperatures, both of which can take a toll on your hardwood floors. By choosing the right finish, maintaining humidity levels, and refinishing every 5-7 years, you can keep your floors looking beautiful and structurally sound for decades.
If you’re considering refinishing your hardwood floors, contact us at (770) 833-1362 today to discuss the best options for your home. Our team specializes in protecting wood floors against Georgia’s climate!