The difference matters because refinishing costs 5–10× more than a deep clean — and once you sand a floor, you've shortened its remaining life span.
If the finish is intact (no bare wood, no exposed cracks, no warping), cleaning is the right call. A professional finish-safe deep clean removes the dulling residue, lifts trapped dirt out of the grain, and restores the depth without removing the protective layer.
If the finish is failing — bare spots, dark stained zones from water, exposed wood — that's refinishing territory. Spiker doesn't refinish. We deep clean and polish, and we'll honestly tell you which one your floor actually needs.