Guidance for maintaining your hardwood floors and answers to common questions
Simple guidance for maintaining your floors
Proper care helps hardwood floors last longer and maintain their appearance. The basics are straightforward: sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit, clean spills promptly, and avoid excessive water or harsh chemicals.
For routine cleaning, use a damp (not wet) mop or cloth with a cleaner designed for hardwood floors. Avoid steam mops, oil soaps, wax-based products, or anything that leaves a residue.
Use felt pads under furniture legs. Place mats at exterior doors to catch dirt and moisture. Trim pet nails regularly. These small habits make a difference over time.
What to expect at each stage
Remove furniture and rugs from the work area. Empty closets if floors extend into them. Plan for pets and family members during the project.
Expect noise during sanding. Some dust will be present despite dust control systems. Access to work areas will be restricted while finishes cure.
Allow adequate curing time before returning furniture or rugs. Follow specific care instructions provided based on the finish used on your floor.
Common questions about hardwood floors and refinishing
Most residential refinishing projects take 3-5 days from start to finish. The exact timeline depends on the size of the floor, its condition, preparation needs, and the number of finish coats. We provide a specific timeline after evaluating your floor.
Most solid hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times. Engineered floors depend on the thickness of the top veneer layer. Very thin wear layers may not allow refinishing. We evaluate your specific floor and let you know what's possible.
It depends on wear, traffic, and how well the floor has been maintained. Some floors need refinishing every 7-10 years. Others last 15-20 years or longer. Refinish when the finish is worn through and the wood is being damaged, not just when it looks dull.
Surface scratches and most stains can be removed through sanding. Deep scratches that penetrate beyond the sanding depth may remain visible. Pet stains that have penetrated deeply into the wood may not be completely removable. We assess damage during the estimate.
We use dust-controlled sanding equipment connected to vacuum systems, which captures most dust at the source. Some fine dust will still be present, but far less than traditional sanding. We also perform daily cleanup to minimize impact.
It depends. Sanding creates noise and some dust. Finish application creates odors. Many homeowners stay elsewhere during sanding, then return once finishes are being applied. We discuss options based on your home's layout and your preferences.
Pets should be kept away from the work area during sanding and finishing. Noise can be stressful for animals, and finishes need time to cure without paw prints or disturbance. Plan for pet care during the project.
Initial walk-on time varies by finish type, typically 6-24 hours for light foot traffic in socks. Full curing takes longer. We provide specific guidance based on the products used on your floor.
Generally 2-4 days after the final coat, depending on the finish. Use felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging anything across the floor. Place cardboard or protective material under heavy items during the first week.
Wait at least 2-4 weeks before placing rugs on newly refinished floors. Finishes need air circulation to fully cure. Placing rugs too early can trap moisture and cause finish problems.
Finish odor typically dissipates within a few days to a week, depending on the product used and ventilation. Opening windows and running fans helps. Some people are more sensitive to odors than others.
Sweep or vacuum regularly. Use a damp (not wet) mop with a cleaner designed for hardwood floors. Avoid excessive water, steam mops, oil soaps, and wax-based products. Clean spills promptly.
Steam mops are not recommended for hardwood floors. Excessive moisture and heat can damage the wood and finish over time. Stick to damp mopping with appropriate cleaners.
Use felt pads under all furniture legs. Replace pads periodically as they wear down. Avoid dragging furniture across floors. Lift and carry when moving items.
High heels, especially those with worn tips, can dent hardwood floors. Encourage guests to remove shoes or provide protective floor mats in high-traffic areas.
Yes. All furniture, rugs, and items must be removed from the work area before refinishing begins. We can discuss furniture moving assistance during the estimate if needed.
If hardwood floors extend into closets, they should be emptied. Dust and finish odors can affect items left in closets during work.
Refinishing is done carefully along edges to avoid damaging baseboards and trim. Some contact is unavoidable during edge sanding. Existing paint or finish on trim may show minor wear after the project.
If your question isn't answered here, contact us. We're happy to discuss your specific situation and provide guidance.
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