Hardwood Floor Refinishing NJ is a complex project requiring expert wood floor knowledge. It’s also messy and time-consuming. Flooring professionals typically charge extra for moving furniture and cleaning the room.
Refinishing is more expensive than recoating, but it will leave you with what are new hardwood floors. It’s best for addressing problems such as uneven coloring, deep scratches/dents, and finish changes.
The cost of hardwood floor refinishing can vary based on the type of wood flooring, the condition of the floors and the method used to refinish them. For example, if the hardwood floors are in poor condition, they will require more sanding and prep work than those in good condition, which will increase the overall price of the project. Other factors that influence the cost of refinishing include the type of finish and furniture removal.
Some of the most common types of finishes for wood floors are oil-based polyurethane and water-based polyurethane. The former costs between $20 and $50 per gallon and dries to a golden amber color over time, while the latter is clear and dries within 24 hours. The type of stain used on the floors will also impact the final price. For example, if the flooring is stained with penetrating oil, it will require a refinishing process that requires the use of chemical strippers.
Refinishing a hardwood floor can be done by sanding the floors and then applying a new coat of finish. However, this is a very messy procedure that creates lots of dust. To avoid this, a professional refinisher will typically place tarps around the room and cover any furnishings with plastic sheets before starting work. This will contain the dust and protect the surfaces of any other rooms in the home.
In addition to sanding the wood, refinishers will need to clean the surface and prepare it for a new finish. They may also have to reinstall any baseboards and move any furniture that is in the room. The cost of this service will depend on where you live and what the contractor charges for it.
Besides refinishing the hardwood floors, you can do other things to improve their look and prolong their lifespan. For instance, a routine cleaning with a microfiber mop and regular dusting will prevent dirt from becoming trapped in the wood and causing damage. This will also help prevent the need for refinishing in the future.
Refinishing hardwood floors is a relatively simple and cost-effective way to update your home’s decor. While it takes some time and effort, refinishing is an excellent investment that can save you money in the long run. It will make your home more attractive and increase its value.
Preparation
The first step in refinishing hardwood floors is to remove the existing finish. This is done using a floor buffer/sander. The sander needs to be used with proper safety equipment, including a respirator mask and eye protection. After the floor is sanded, it must be thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any lingering grit and dust. After the cleaning process, it’s time to apply the new stain. A minimum of three coats are needed, and the finished product should be allowed to dry for at least 48 hours before moving furniture back into the room.
Before refinishing hardwood floors, it’s important to determine whether a refinish or resurfacing project is necessary. Resurfacing is less expensive and easier to perform than a full refinish, but it can only address surface-level damage. It’s also best to consult a BCC before beginning any work. The contractor can assess the condition of the floors and recommend the right type of service.
If your floors have major scratches or gouges, a refinish is probably required. This process involves removing the topmost layer of the wood flooring, which includes the finish and stain. This is a complicated process that can only be done by a professional. To make sure you’re getting the best results, choose a Bona Certified Contractor (BCC) who is familiar with the latest sanding technology and will be able to deliver a flawless finish.
While sanding can be messy, there are ways to reduce the mess and the amount of dust produced. For example, covering vents and sealing doorways is a good idea. A tarp can also be placed over the entire area to prevent dust from blowing into the rest of your home.
After sanding, the wood should be cleaned with a mild detergent and water to remove any residue. Then, a floor sealer should be applied to protect the newly sanded wood. This sealer is available in oil or water-based formulas and can be applied with a rag or foam brush. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and always buff between applications.
Labor
Refinishing hardwood floors takes time and patience, so it is best to hire a professional. They have the experience and equipment to complete the job quickly and correctly. They will also be able to work around your schedule, so you can continue living normally during the project. Some professionals may charge extra to move furniture and clean up the work area, but you can save money by doing this yourself before they start working.
A good contractor will sand the old finish off of your hardwood floors and apply several coats of polyurethane. The number of coats will depend on your budget, but three is generally a good choice. The refinishing process will leave your floor with a beautiful and durable finish. Ensure that the company you hire uses low-VOC finishes to avoid toxic fumes.
In addition to sanding the flooring, a quality professional will use a dustless refinisher to reduce the amount of dust. This will prevent the wood from becoming dirty and will help the refinishing process go more smoothly. They will also have a vacuum machine to clean up the debris from the work area. You can find a professional flooring company by searching online or asking friends for recommendations. Look for a company with excellent customer reviews and a solid reputation.
When hiring a professional, it’s important to ask them about their experience with hardwood floors. They should be able to answer your questions and explain the different options available for your home. They should also provide a free estimate and detailed work plan.
Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners, but it can be expensive to repair and maintain. Regular refinishing will help keep your hardwood floors looking great and reduce the need for costly replacements. In fact, refinishing your hardwood floors can make them last for decades.
One of the most common reasons to refinish your hardwood is to get rid of scratches, dings, and dents. You can also use this opportunity to change the color of your flooring or add a glossier finish. There are a variety of finishing products available, including water-based, polyurethane, and acid cured finishes.
Materials
Refinishing your hardwood floors can restore their beauty and protect them from damage. You’ll need a few key materials, including stain, varnish and sandpaper. It’s best to work with a professional, but you can do it yourself if you have enough space and patience. The process is messy and time-consuming, but it will be worth it once the job is done.
Before you start, make sure the room is warm and dry. You’ll also need to remove all furniture and curtains. Also, cover any vents in the room with quarter-round trim or covers. Vacuum the floor to remove any dirt or debris. It’s important to use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment or setting, as the hard bristles could scratch your wood floors.
Next, sand the entire floor with a drum sander. Start with 80-grit sandpaper and move up to finer grits as you go. It’s a good idea to wear a dust mask when you sand the floor. If you don’t sand your floors thoroughly, the new finish won’t stick properly.
When you’re finished, clean the sanding dust from the floor with a vacuum or tack cloth. You should also wipe the floors with mineral spirits to remove any remaining sanding residue. Once the sanding and cleaning are complete, you can apply the new finish. You’ll need to apply several coats, depending on the type of finish you choose. Water-based finishes dry quickly, while oil-based ones take longer to cure.
Once the topcoat is applied, it’s important to wait for it to dry before moving on. Be patient, as it may take a few days for the finish to fully cure. While you’re waiting, you can do other projects around the house or relax in the living room.
Once the topcoat has cured, you can seal your hardwood floors again. If you’d like to preserve your natural colors and grain, you can use a water-based polyurethane. It’s better for the environment than an oil-based polyurethane, and it’s also less toxic. However, if you prefer a glossy finish, you can opt for an oil-based polyurethane. Just be sure to read the label carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
