Hardwood Flooring FAQ

The fastest way to get started is to send us a few photos of the areas that need work, along with approximate square footage. We can also schedule an in-person visit. An estimate fee may apply to an in-person visit, and it will be credited toward the project cost if you move forward.

Square footage matters, but it doesn’t always reflect how complex or time-consuming a project will be. The floor’s current condition, preparation required, wood species, and layout can all affect the price.

Once the scope is confirmed, we send a service agreement and a down-payment invoice. We then coordinate materials, delivery, site access, and scheduling.

Deposits typically range from 30% to 50%, depending on how much of the project cost is materials. The exact deposit is confirmed with the service agreement and down-payment invoice. The remaining balance is due when the project is completed.

On average, projects are scheduled about one month out. Openings sometimes become available within a few days, and material availability can affect the start date. We will confirm the current options for your project.

Yes. Showroom visits are available by appointment. Contact us to schedule a time.

Flooring is generally scheduled after demolition, framing, drywall, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, but before trim and painting. There are exceptions, so share the full remodeling schedule with us and we’ll help determine the best sequence.

Usually not in the same work area. The flooring crew needs clear access, and overlapping work can create dust, damage, and delays. Tell us about any work that may overlap so we can coordinate it safely.

For custom projects, we generally recommend unfinished hardwood because the floor, stairs, transitions, and moldings can be finished together for a more consistent result. Prefinished flooring can be a good option when minimizing downtime is important or when you prefer to choose the finished color in advance.

Usually. The best result often comes from lacing the new flooring into the existing floor and refinishing everything together. Differences in species, age, and grain mean that a completely invisible match is not always possible.

About one week is typical, but acclimation is not always required. We check the flooring’s moisture content and the conditions inside the home to determine when it is ready to install.

Most hardwood floor refinishing projects take about 3 to 5 days. Larger or more complex projects, and some finish systems, may take longer.

You can usually stay in the house if you can avoid the work areas. We recommend leaving while finish coats are being applied, typically during the last 2 or 3 days. Each coat needs about 5 to 6 hours before the floor can be accessed again.

Remove furniture, rugs, and personal items from every area being refinished. Keep people, pets, and other contractors out of the active workspace. We will discuss appliances, closets, unusually heavy items, and access before the project begins. See our project preparation guide for more details.

Not always. Our typical system includes one coat of clear sealer and two coats of finish. In many cases, another coat provides more value than upgrading only to a high-traffic finish, although the two options can be combined. Learn more in our guide to high-traffic finish versus an additional coat.

Yes. Filling gaps is a standard part of the refinishing process. It is not a permanent repair, however, and the result depends on the size of the gaps, the quality of the installation, and changes in indoor relative humidity as the wood expands and contracts.

With our standard water-based finish, floors are usually ready for socks or clean shoes about 3 hours after the final coat. Wait 3 days before returning furniture and 7 days before placing area rugs. We will confirm the correct schedule for the finish used on your project.

Pets should stay off the floors for the entire project. After the final coat, keep them off as long as practical. Large dogs can dent the wood itself, even after the finish has cured.

It is best to wait 3 days before covering newly finished floors. Use a breathable protective material, such as Ram Board, so the finish can continue curing.

We do not recommend applying tape directly to a newly finished floor because there is always a risk of peeling the finish. If tape must be used, choose a low-adhesion tape and remove it as soon as practical.

Regular vacuuming or sweeping helps keep grit from wearing the finish. For routine cleaning, use a damp microfiber or terry cloth mop with plain water. A pH-neutral cleaner that leaves no residue is also suitable. Avoid floor polishes and using too much water. For more detailed guidance, see our complete wood floor cleaning and maintenance guide.