According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of refinishing a wood floor is $1,815.

Adding an old pop of color to the floor can also add style and personality to a room or help brighten it up.

Varnishing wood floors can be an attractive option because it can help create a unique look and add contrast to a room.

You can add a pattern to your wood flooring to add a decorative element.

The main disadvantage of painted flooring is that it can scratch, chip and peel if you're not careful or don't paint it properly.

If you end up going for a natural look, repairing a painted floor is not easy and, in fact, may be impossible to reverse.

However, the biggest pitfall of painted flooring may be that it can affect the market value of your home, and there are still buyers who prefer original and well-maintained flooring over custom flooring".

So, before you run out and buy a can of paint, think seriously about the future of your floors.

If you decide to go ahead and paint your wood floors, it is important to prepare the surface properly.

Repair and fill any cracks, gaps or nail holes prior to painting. I also recommend sanding the floor to ensure a smooth surface.

Before you begin painting, make sure the floor is clean and free of any flaking pre-treatment and that any wax or oil-based cleaning products have been removed.

If you don't do this, you may inadvertently eliminate the possibility of returning the wood to its original natural color, and your paint will seep between cracks and holes, requiring deeper sanding and cost to remove the visible paint.

Familiarize yourself with the differences between oil-based and water-based paints.

Oil-based paints can be difficult to apply, but are very durable. Water-based paints, on the other hand, are easier to work with, but are more prone to scratching.

Apply your paint with a brush.

If you use a snooze roller, you'll get a rougher surface, and you'll get a better, smoother result by brushing the floor by hand.

Finally, consider what kind of sheen you want - matte, glossy or satin.

While this depends on your preference, having some degree of sheen does add a protective layer.

As a final touch, you can add a polyurethane topcoat for extra durability.

It is recommended to allow the paint to cure for a full week to allow it to harden properly. Also, be sure to properly vent the space to remove paint fumes.

Finally, whether or not to paint your wood floors depends on your budget and personal aesthetic.

If you are looking for an easy and affordable way to dramatically change the look of your space, painting may be a good option.

On the other hand, if you're looking for something that doesn't require regular maintenance or touch-ups, then distressing may be a better option.