There’s a simple, affordable way to restore patios to like-new condition ... and soapy scrubbings much better than standard floor paint, which can fade and wear out prematurely.

While speaking exclusively to House Digest, the expert shared that if you want the floor to look nearly as good as new, you'll need to refinish it. Otherwise, restoration is typically the way to go.

She's previously worked at sites such as HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie's List). Hardwood floors can become damaged from scratches, sun, foot traffic or age, making any home look dull and dirty.

wood floors might need only polishing or, at most, a sand-down followed by a coat of polyurethane sealant or tung oil. If that doesn’t work, try this last-ditch effort: Use paint to cover pits ...

Once the paint has been stripped ... knows the struggle of restoring original wood floors all too well. Overseeing the restoration of an early 1900s townhouse on the Upper West Side, Ms.