Craftsmanship and attention to detail for long-term results
Understanding the refinishing process and when it makes sense
Hardwood floor refinishing is the process of sanding down the existing finish and wood surface to remove scratches, wear, and old coatings, then applying a new protective finish. Done correctly, refinishing restores the floor's appearance and extends its life for decades.
Refinishing makes sense when your floors show visible wear, scratches, or dullness but the wood itself is still structurally sound. Most solid hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times over their lifespan.
Refinishing is the majority of the work we do at Delaware Valley Hardwoods. We approach every floor as a craft project, not a production job.
Homeowners who care about quality and long-term results
Hardwood floor refinishing is for homeowners who value craftsmanship over speed, and long-term performance over shortcuts. It's for people who want their floors done right, not just done quickly.
We work with one client and one project at a time. This means we're not the right fit for everyone. But for homeowners who prioritize quality and want a partner who will educate, communicate, and deliver excellent results, we're a good match.
Correct prep, careful process, consistent outcomes
Refinishing hardwood floors correctly requires knowledge, experience, and patience. The process includes proper evaluation of the wood, identifying and addressing floor issues, systematic sanding with appropriate grits, edge work that blends seamlessly, and finish application that meets industry standards.
We inspect every floor carefully before starting. Loose boards, gaps, damage, and structural issues are addressed upfront.
Sanding is done in stages using the correct sequence of grits. We don't skip steps or rush the process.
Edges and corners receive the same attention as the main floor area. No visible lines or uneven transitions.
We use professional-grade finishes applied correctly for long-term performance and protection.
Clear communication, cleanliness, and daily cleanup
We understand that having work done in your home is disruptive. That's why we emphasize communication, cleanliness, and respect for your space throughout the project.
Our sanders are connected to vacuum systems for dust control. We clean up daily, not just at the end of the project. Drop cloths protect your belongings. We'll walk you through what to expect each day and answer any questions you have.
Refinishing is a multi-day process. Sanding typically takes 1-2 days depending on the size and condition of the floor. Finish coats are applied over the following days, with drying time between coats. We'll provide a realistic timeline upfront and keep you informed as work progresses.
Quick answers to frequent questions
Most residential refinishing projects take 3-5 days from start to finish, depending on the size of the floor, its condition, and the number of finish coats. We'll provide a specific timeline after evaluating your floor.
It depends. Sanding and finish application create dust and odors. Many homeowners choose to stay elsewhere during sanding, then return once finishes are being applied. We'll discuss options based on your home's layout and your preferences.
Initial walk-on time varies based on the finish used, typically 6-24 hours for light foot traffic in socks. Full curing takes longer. We'll give you specific guidance based on the products we use on your floor.
Most solid hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times. Engineered floors depend on the thickness of the top layer. Very thin wear layers may not allow refinishing. We'll evaluate your specific floor and let you know what's possible.
For more detailed answers, visit our Floor Care & FAQs page.
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