Service
Hardwood Screen and Recoat
Lightly abrading the existing finish and applying a fresh coat. It refreshes worn finish but does not remove deep scratches, stains or change the wood color.
A screen and recoat is a maintenance step, not a full refinish. It does not sand into the wood. It works when the existing finish is dull or lightly scratched but still intact.
If the floor has bare wood showing, deep scratches, gray areas or a color you want to change, full refinishing is usually needed instead.
Also known as: buff and coat, hardwood recoat, maintenance coat.
Typical scope
- Cleaning and checking for contamination
- Abrading the existing finish with a screen or pad
- Applying one or more compatible finish coats
Usually not included
- Staircase work is not part of this service. You can flag it as a separate related request.
- Structural subfloor or joist repair, moisture remediation and pest damage repair are outside a flooring quote unless the contractor says otherwise.
- Color changes and deep scratch removal require full sanding and refinishing.
Material and condition considerations
- Wax, oil soaps and some polishes can cause a new coat to peel. Contractors may test adhesion first.
- The new coat must be compatible with the existing finish.
- Recoating can extend the time before a full sanding is needed, preserving wood on thin floors.
What affects the price
No prices are published here. Independent contractors quote after seeing the floor. These factors usually drive the quote:
- Square footage
- Contamination cleanup or adhesion testing
- Number of coats and finish type
- Furniture moving
How to prepare
- List any cleaning or polish products used on the floor.
- Clear the rooms completely.
- Plan for the finish cure period.
Related guides
Hardwood Screen and Recoat by neighborhood
How the estimate and referral work
- You send the project details below. Nothing is shared publicly.
- We check the address is inside current coverage, then share your request with a relevant independent flooring contractor.
- The contractor contacts you, inspects the floor and gives their own quote. Any contract is directly between you and them.
We cannot promise a contractor is available for every request or date. More on how it works.
Frequently asked questions
Is a recoat the same as refinishing?
No. A recoat only abrades and adds finish on top. Refinishing sands down to bare wood and can change color and remove deeper damage.
Can I recoat a floor that has been waxed?
Often not without extra preparation, and sometimes not at all. Wax can prevent bonding. Tell the contractor about past wax use.
Related services
Request a free estimate
We are a referral service, not a contractor. Your request is shared with a relevant independent hardwood flooring contractor who quotes and performs the work. Submitting this form shares your details with a relevant independent contractor. See our privacy policy and referral disclosure. Marketing consent, if offered, is optional.