A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping the project on schedule. While your flooring contractor will handle the sanding and finishing, homeowners can help by preparing the work area before the crew arrives.
Every home is different, but a few simple steps can make the entire refinishing process smoother for everyone involved.
Remove Furniture and Personal Items
The room should be completely cleared whenever possible. Furniture, rugs, lamps, plants and decorative items should all be removed before work begins.
Don't forget closets with hardwood flooring. These areas are often overlooked until moving day, which can delay the project.
If you're unable to move larger furniture, discuss it with your contractor beforehand so arrangements can be made.
Protect Adjacent Rooms
Although modern sanding equipment captures the vast majority of sanding dust, it's still a good idea to remove delicate items from nearby rooms and keep unnecessary foot traffic to a minimum.
Your contractor may also isolate certain areas of the home while work is in progress.
Plan for Limited Access
During refinishing, portions of your home may be temporarily unavailable. Once the finish has been applied, you'll need to stay off the floor until it's safe to walk on.
Planning ahead for pets, children and alternate pathways through the home can eliminate unnecessary stress during the project.
If you're wondering how long this process usually takes, our article How Long Does Hardwood Floor Refinishing Take? explains the typical timeline from sanding through final curing.
Discuss Repairs Before Work Begins
If there are squeaks, loose boards, damaged flooring or areas you're concerned about, point them out during the estimate.
Many repairs can be completed as part of the refinishing project, but it's always better to identify them before work begins rather than after sanding has started.
If you're unsure whether your floor can even be restored, our article Can Wood Flooring Be Repaired or Refinished? explains what professionals evaluate during an inspection.
Don't Rush the Finish
Once the final coat has been applied, it's important to follow your contractor's recommendations regarding foot traffic, furniture replacement and area rugs.
A finish may feel dry to the touch long before it has fully cured. Allowing adequate curing time helps protect the investment you've made in your hardwood floors.
A Successful Project Starts Before the Sanders Arrive
Preparing your home isn't difficult, but it does make the refinishing process more efficient. A clear work area allows the crew to begin immediately, reduces interruptions and helps the project stay on schedule.
National Floors will explain exactly what should be done before your scheduled start date, answer any questions you may have and help ensure your hardwood floor refinishing project begins as smoothly as possible.
