What is Staining vs. Restaining Hardwood Floors?
Staining is the process of applying a colored treatment to hardwood floors to enhance or completely change the wood’s natural appearance. It allows you to customize the color, depth, and overall look of the floor, bringing out the wood grain or giving it a more uniform appearance. This step typically happens after the floor is sanded down to its bare wood.
Restaining, on the other hand, refers to the process of applying a new stain to floors that have already been stained previously. Over time, the original stain may fade, become worn, or no longer match your home’s style. Restaining helps refresh the floor’s color or change its tone, especially if the original stain has worn unevenly or you simply want a new look without completely refinishing the floor. Restaining may require additional steps like sanding or cleaning to remove residue from the previous finish, ensuring the new stain absorbs evenly.
So, you’re staring at your hardwood flooring in Brooklyn, wondering if you can switch things up. Maybe you’re over that outdated honey oak look, or maybe you just moved in and inherited a floor color that doesn’t match your vibe.
The big question is: Can hardwood floors be stained or refinished in any color?
Short answer? Mostly, yes.
But, as with anything in life, there are a few catches. Let’s break it down.
What Determines Your Staining Options?
Not all hardwood floors are the same, and this means not all of them will take stain the same way. Here are the key things that decide what colors you can achieve:
1. The Type of Wood You Have
Different wood species absorb stains differently. Some take color beautifully, while others are more stubborn.
- Oak (Red & White): Oak soaks up color evenly and allows for a wide range of shades.
- Maple: Looks great natural but is a nightmare to stain evenly. The dense grain resists absorption, so dark stains can look blotchy.
- Hickory: Wild grain patterns make staining tricky, but it’s doable with the right technique.
- Pine: Since pine is soft and unpredictable, it can absorb stains unevenly, leading to a rustic look.
- Exotic Woods (Brazilian Cherry, Mahogany): These already have rich colors and natural oils, making them resistant to staining.
If you’re dreaming of a dramatically different color, oak is your best bet. If you have something like maple or an exotic hardwood, you need to get a professional on board who really knows what they’re doing.
2. The Current Finish on Your Floors
If your floors have an existing stain or finish that needs to be completely sanded off before a new stain can be applied. If there’s still residue from the old finish, the new stain won’t absorb evenly, leaving you with a patchy mess.
3. The Color You Want
Now, let’s talk color. You can go light, dark, warm, cool, or even gray/whitewashed. But some shades work better than others depending on the wood type and its natural undertones.
Going Dark? Deep espresso and ebony stains are trendy, but they highlight dust and scratches more than lighter floors.
Going Light? Natural, raw, and whitewashed looks are in, but they may require special finishes.
Going Gray or Cool-Toned? Some woods have red or yellow undertones that fight against cool stains. Oak works well, but something like cherry? Not so much.
some other options are:
Can You Go From Dark to Light (or Vice Versa)?
Yes, but it takes work.
Dark to Light: You’ll need deep sanding to strip off all the old stains. Even then, some wood species might retain a slight tint from their previous finish.
Light to Dark: This is much easier. Sand it down, apply a darker stain, and you’re good to go.
If your floors have been stained multiple times in the past, getting them back to a natural or very light color may be tough since older stains tend to penetrate deep into the wood.
Also Read: How to Refinish Your Hardwood Floors on a Budget – DIY vs. Professional
What’s the Process Like?
If you’re thinking about changing the color of your hardwood flooring, here’s what to expect:
Step 1. Sanding
The old finish is stripped off completely. This is where professionals make all the difference. If it’s not sanded evenly, the new stain won’t apply correctly.
Step 2. Staining
Your chosen color is applied and left to soak in before being wiped off. Some woods need multiple coats for an even look.
Step 3. Sealing
A protective topcoat is applied to lock in the color and protect against wear and tear. You can choose between matte, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss finishes.
The whole process takes a few days to a week, depending on drying times and how many coats are needed.
Final Verdict: Can You Stain Hardwood Floors Any Color?
Mostly, yes. But within reason. The type of wood, its natural undertones, and its current finish all play a role in how well it will take stain. Some woods are flexible, while others will fight you every step of the way.
If you want your hardwood flooring in Brooklyn to have a fresh new look, getting the job done right is key. Here’s where you pick up the phone and get through to Floorika Fine Hardwood. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic color change or just a fresh update, our team knows how to get stunning, even results (without the DIY headaches).
