Five Things to Know Before You Refinish Wooden Floors

Hardwood flooring can last for many years to come. You don’t even need to install the flooring from scratch. The beauty of hardwood flooring is that it can look good as new with quality refinishing work. But wooden floor refinish projects require due care. You will need to plan the project well so that you experience the least inconvenience.

Here are the five things to know before you refinish wooden floors.

A professional contractor can do a better job

Many homeowners attempt the wooden floor refinish projects by themselves. If you are an expert at it, you can, of course, tackle it. If you have some knowledge about it, there is no harm in attempting it. But if you have never undertaken wooden floor refinishing work then it is best to leave it to professionals.

Hardwood flooring installation Phoenix and refinishing require precision work. It is also a labor-intensive job. Buffing unevenly or too hard can ruin the finish. The incorrect sanding technique will be apparent even after the refinishing is complete. The DIY attempt may further damage your flooring instead of renewing it.

Hardwood flooring is supposed to last for many years. Refinishing breathes new life into it. So, it is ideal to hire a professional contractor for the best refinishing results.

Shelling out a bit of extra money for a professional job can be worth it

Yes, that’s a given; professional refinishing work may cost you more than DIY projects. But the former will be cost-effective in the long run. If the DIY job is not up to the mark, you will need to eventually hire a contractor to rectify the ruined finish of the hardwood flooring. So, you will end up spending money on both the failed DIY attempt and for the professional job.

For DIY projects, you will need to rent sanding equipment and purchase the stains and other materials for the job. So, essentially, you are only saving on the labor. When it comes to hardwood flooring, it is best to keep its quality intact by spending money on hiring an experienced contractor for the job.

Removing furniture from the rooms may be necessary

Wooden floor refinishing projects can cause inconveniences. You will need to remove furniture from the room where refinishing work will take place.

Depending on the size and amount of furniture, you may be able to shift it from one corner to another as the refinishing progresses. You may even need to cover the furniture. Your contractor will be better able to guide you about what needs to be done. But be prepared for some hassles.

Living elsewhere for the duration of the project is a better option

If the refinishing work will cover the entire house, it is best to make your living arrangements elsewhere for the duration of the project. Sanding and polishing jobs will release dust and fumes. The indoor air will become a bit toxic.

The furniture will be moved and it can be inconvenient for you to find stuff for daily use. Getting ready for the day can be a hassle with all the dust flying around the house. Odors from chemicals can be overwhelming. If you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies, the fumes and dust can further aggravate the condition. If you have small children or pets in the house then it is best to move someplace else until the work is complete.

Some companies now use dust containment systems that can prevent dust from becoming airborne. You can inquire about it when hiring the contractor for the job.

Inspecting the refinishing properly before the contractor leaves is important

Don’t let the excitement of seeing your shiny refinished floors stop you from inspecting the completed work. Check each room thoroughly. Inspect the corners too. Check if the work listed in the contract is complete or not.
Assess if the floors actually look new. The final job has to be to your satisfaction. If you check the finished work later, you may not be able to hold the contractors accountable. So, review the work before making the final payment to the contractor.