Hardwood floors last even longer when you schedule refinishing. During this service, a contractor sands down the top layer of the flooring to eliminate scratches, then applies a sealant for a shiny and beautiful finish. Below are a few common questions homeowners have about the procedure to help you understand it.

A Guide to Refinishing Hardwood Floors

How long does the process take? 

After the surface is refinished, the coat needs to dry completely before you can re-enter the home. Depending on which type of polyurethane the contractor uses, the process can take anywhere from two to four days for a whole home. Service with a water-based finish takes about two days, while refinishing with oil-based products can take up to four days.

Does sanding produce a lot of dust?

The job does require sanding, but scheduling service with a contractor who uses a dust containment system significantly reduces the amount of dust generated.

The equipment has a vacuum attached to the sander, sucking up almost all of the dust created. This option promotes a healthier environment by preventing particles from entering your home’s air ducts. It also speeds up cleanup for the refinishing crew, leading to faster service.

What if parts of the floor are damaged?

If you have any water damage or stains that have turned your wood floor black, the damage may have penetrated the top layer of the affected planks.

Have those floorboards replaced before you refinish the floors. Match the species and grade of wood to ensure the boards fit in seamlessly. Then, the contractors can sand them with the rest of the flooring to produce a uniform look.

What can I do to protect the new finish?

While hardwood is a low-maintenance, durable material, taking some precautions can make it last longer. Place felt pads underneath any heavy furniture, like bookcases and shelves, as well as chairs and items that you move over the floor. If you decorate with rugs, choose ones with waffle-patterned backings. Also, remove your shoes when you enter your home to preserve the sheen.

For efficient refinishing, contact Carolina Wood Floors. With over 30 years of experience, CWF has restored hardwood flooring for numerous homes in Winston-Salem, NC, and the surrounding area. These professionals use state-of-the-art dust containment systems to protect homeowners. Call (336) 765-0680 to discuss your needs, or visit their website to learn more about their refinishing services.