Screen and Coat
Screen & Coat Hardwood Floor Service
Refresh Your Floors Without Full Refinishing
A screen and coat is an excellent way to refresh hardwood floors that have lost their shine but are not yet ready for a full sanding and refinishing. This service is a cost-effective, lower-impact option designed to restore luster, protect your floors, and extend the life of the existing finish. While a screen and coat will not remove deep scratches or dents, it is ideal for eliminating light surface scratches, scuffs, and general wear caused by furniture and everyday foot traffic.
How the Screen & Coat Process Works
The process begins by lightly abrading (or “screening”) the existing finish using a professional buffing machine and specialized sanding screen. This step creates a surface that allows a new coat of finish to properly bond.
Once the floor is prepared, we apply a fresh protective topcoat that restores shine and adds a new layer of durability. The result is a cleaner, refreshed appearance without the dust, time, or cost of full refinishing.
Is a Screen & Coat Right for Your Floors?
Screen and coat services work best on floors where the existing finish is still intact but showing signs of wear. However, not all hardwood floors are good candidates.
A full refinishing may be necessary if your floors have:
- Deep scratches or dents
- Heavy wear patterns in high-traffic areas
- Significant UV discoloration or rug lines
- Pet stains or damage that penetrates the wood
In addition, some cleaning products can prevent new finishes from bonding properly. Floors previously treated with products such as oil soaps, acrylic waxes, or certain polish residues may experience finish issues like peeling, fisheyes, or poor adhesion. In these cases, a full sanding and refinishing is often the better long-term solution.
Our team will evaluate your floors and recommend the best option based on their condition.
When Should Hardwood Floors Be Recoated?
The timing for recoating depends on how much traffic your floors receive. For most homes, we recommend inspecting floors for wear approximately three years after installation, refinishing, or the last recoat.
High-traffic areas such as kitchens, entryways, and hallways should be evaluated more frequently sometimes as early as one year. If you notice visible scratches in walkways or under chairs, or areas where the finish appears dull or thin, it may be time for a screen and coat.
Recoating at the right time can help you avoid the need for full refinishing later.
Protect Your Floors & Extend Their Life
A professional screen and coat is one of the best ways to maintain hardwood floors and keep them looking their best. It restores beauty, adds protection, and helps preserve your original finish for years to come.
If you’re unsure whether your floors are a good candidate, we’re happy to help.
Let’s Bring Your Floors Back to Life
If you’re ready to install new flooring or restore the beauty of your existing hardwood floors, Uptown Flooring is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate and start creating the floors your home deserves.