Choosing a Hardwood Floor Refinishing Pro

What refinishing options do you offer?

This is an important question as there are different processes and finishes. You want to ensure they offer a safe sanding process to refinish hardwood floors so the delicate layer of wood is protected. Have them explain the process, so you understand what is involved before deciding to refinish your floors.

What types of finishes do your offer?

Have them show you samples of the stains and finishes available and discuss the benefits of each to help you make the right decision. You also need to consider whether you want a high gloss, semi-gloss, or satin finish. The higher the gloss, the more noticeable the scratches.

How strong smelling are the stains and finishes you use?

If you are concerned about strong chemical smells, ask them what finish they recommend. While all finishes produce some odors, water-based polyurethane tends to emit fewer volatile organic compounds(VOCs). Oil-based penetrating finishes produce fewer odors, and some even find the smell pleasant. However, this finish doesn’t last as long as polyurethane and tends to cost more.

How long will it take for your hardwood floor refinishers to complete the project?

It depends on the size of your home, how many floors are being refinished, and the type of finish you choose. For example, water-based finishes produce lower VOCs that will disappear quickly and can dry in just a few hours. This means your refinisher can complete the job in a single day as the floors don’t need as long to cure. Understanding the time involved is important as you want to know what to expect.

How will you handle major stains or damage?

Pet stains are almost impossible to remove when they’ve been allowed to settle into the wood. Also, some planks might be severely cracked or even rotted out. In this case, you want to know how they deal with these issues and how much more it will cost if they have to replace the entire plank.

How do you contain and clean up the dust?

This is important because if the finishers don’t take the time to block off areas not being sanded, the dust will spread everywhere.

Who will perform the actual work?

You want to ensure the work is not being subcontracted by a company you don’t know. Your refinisher should also have a contractor’s license to operate in your area.

What guarantee do you offer?

Make sure they either have some sort of labor warranty or satisfaction guarantee. This shows they stand behind their work. Guarantees are essential because poor quality can lead to defects that ruin your refinished floors' look and protective coating.

Are you insured?

The company should provide proof they are insured and have workers' compensation so you can’t be held liable if accidents happen.

About the Author:

Since 2014, Nick Patel and the team at SCV Floorsmith have provided high-quality flooring services to homeowners in Naperville, South Barrington, and the surrounding areas. With over 5000 projects completed successfully and more than 30 years of industry experience, you can be confident that SCV Floorsmith has the experience and expertise to handle your next flooring project.