When it’s time to bring new life to your tired hardwood floors, finding the right contractor is key. This guide will help you identify the contractor to refinish hardwood floors who can deliver quality and value. From assessing experience and skill level to understanding the refinishing process and ensuring proper certification, this resource aims to ease your selection process while safeguarding your investment.
Key Takeaways
Selecting a hardwood floor refinishing contractor with proven experience, a history of satisfied customers, and a high skill level is crucial for restoring floor quality and ensuring the durability of the refinishing work.
Verifying a contractor’s licensing, insurance, and certifications, particularly NWFA certification, is important to ensure legal compliance, financial protection, and adherence to industry standards in floor refinishing.
Understanding the refinishing process—including the initial assessment, dust control, cleanup, and the project timeline—is essential for setting realistic expectations and achieving a successful outcome with hardwood floor refinishing.
Essential Qualities of a Hardwood Floor Refinishing Contractor
Hardwood floor refinishing is a delicate process that requires a skilled contractor who can restore the original shine and beauty of your floors. When searching for hardwood floor refinishing companies, the contractor you choose should have:
Proven experience in refinishing hardwood floors
A history of satisfied customers
A high skill level that ensures an efficient and effective restoration.
This combination of qualities will ensure your hardwood floors are handled with the utmost care, maintain their durability, and look their absolute best with the addition of a wood floor and hardwood flooring.
How do I know if my hardwood floors are worth refinishing?
Scratchings can signal a need for some refinishing of hardwood floors. Scratches occur when furniture or other things have been damaged. If you find scratches on your surface, it is important to cover it properly
Experience and Expertise
A contractor’s experience and expertise are crucial for achieving high-quality and durable results in hardwood floor refinishing. Experienced contractors:
Understand the unique characteristics of different types of wood and how to handle them
Know how to deal with potential challenges that might arise during the refinishing process, such as stains, warping, or deep scratches
Have the expertise to use specialized equipment effectively, ensuring a superior finish that can be difficult for amateurs to replicate.
The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) offers certifications that verify a contractor’s expertise in hardwood floor refinishing. Contractors with NWFA certifications have undergone rigorous evaluation and continuous education, providing customers with significant credibility and assurance of quality. They also have a diverse portfolio, demonstrating their proficiency in a range of refinishing projects, including parquet, vintage, and outdoor spaces.
Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction is a key indicator of a contractor’s professionalism and quality of work. It reflects their ability to meet or exceed clients’ expectations. Key performance indicators such as:
reviews
testimonials
referrals
completed projects
average customer rating scores
can effectively quantify customer satisfaction. Repeat business is another strong indicator of satisfaction. A good benchmark for floor refinishing services is 20% to 40% repeat customers.
The number of referrals a contractor receives is a testament to their customer satisfaction and the effectiveness of their service. Therefore, potential clients are encouraged to communicate with past clients to inquire about their experience and satisfaction with the contractor’s services, providing insights beyond online ratings.
Skill Level
The skill level of a hardwood floor refinishing contractor is vital for ensuring the work is done efficiently and effectively. Contractors who possess comprehensive technical skills, including:
Customizations
Wood identification
Knowledge of wood properties
Carpentry skills
Understanding of hardwoods, softwoods, and engineered woods
Our team of professionals, experienced in working with wood planks, are able to deliver superior results. They have the ability to match and blend wood stain and to finish incomplete flooring with precise results, skills that distinguish them from average DIY enthusiasts.
Importantly, licensed flooring contractors who have passed training and exams meet the industry’s professional standards, ensuring proficiency in a variety of skills required for effective and safe hardwood floor refinishing. Access to high-quality equipment, such as dust containment systems, is a hallmark of professional contractors, ensuring air and surface cleanliness for superior, dust-free finishes.
Licensing, Insurance, and Certifications
Before hiring a hardwood floor refinishing flooring contractor, it’s critical to verify their:
Licensing: A licensed contractor operates legally
Insurance: Insurance covers any accidental damage during the refinishing process
Certifications: Certifications, such as those from the National Wood Flooring Association, assure that the contractor adheres to industry standards, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications for quality craftsmanship.
Licensing and Insurance
Hiring a contractor without the proper licensing is illegal in many areas, which can lead to potential legal complications, fines, and project shutdowns. Contractor insurance safeguards homeowners from potential financial burdens due to accidents or damage incurred during the project. It can also support the cost of completing a project if the original contractor is unable to finish it.
Therefore, homeowners should request and verify proof of a contractor’s insurance by contacting the insurance company directly, alongside ensuring that the contractor’s license is current.
NWFA Certification
Professional contractors with the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) certification undergo continuous education through NWFA University’s certification-related training, aligning with industry best practices. The certification process rigorously evaluates contractors employing both online and hands-on testing, ensuring they have comprehensive expertise.
Contractors with NWFA certification can leverage promotional materials, signaling superior quality to potential clients.
Workers’ Compensation
In addition to the contractor’s license and insurance, homeowners should also verify if the contractor provides workers’ compensation coverage. This protects homeowners from being responsible for workers’ injuries or missed work time. It also provides coverage for workplace injuries, reinforcing compliance with state laws.
The requirement for workers’ compensation insurance varies by state, with differences in the necessity for it based on company size and other factors.
The Refinishing Process: What to Expect
Refinishing hardwood floors, which is essentially the same process as refinishing wood floors, is a multi-step procedure that requires a systematic approach to achieve the desired results. It typically starts with sanding to remove old finishes and imperfections, followed by staining for color change, and is concluded with multiple finishes for protection and aesthetics.
Understanding this process, including the initial assessment and estimate, dust control and cleanup, and the project timeline, can help homeowners set realistic expectations and ensure a smooth refinishing process.
Initial Assessment and Estimate
The initial on-site assessment evaluates the current floor conditions, such as the presence of deep scratches, gouges, and potential issues like warping and stains. Based on this assessment, the contractor determines the refinishing requirements, including the sandpaper grit for sanding, and any repair works, such as replacing planks or buffing out floor blemishes.
A detailed written estimate is then provided, which includes:
The square footage to be refinished
Labor costs
Materials
Additional services like staining options
This breakdown helps homeowners understand the scope and cost of the project.
Dust Control and Cleanup
Dust control is a crucial aspect of hardwood floor refinishing. Every speck of dust or debris can compromise the smoothness of the finish. Therefore, professional contractors use dustless equipment and attach each piece to vacuums for dust control. They also take measures to isolate the work area from the rest of the house, using plastic coverings and air filtration devices. Furthermore, contractors block off vents and ducts during sanding to prevent dust spread throughout the home.
Cleanup is another key aspect of the refinishing process. Contractors are expected to cleanse the floors and tidy up progressively, preventing any long-term mess. A thorough vacuuming is performed after each sanding step to keep the surface clean and prepared for the next refinishing stage. Proper cleanup is a continuous process throughout refinishing, being essential to maintain a pristine finish free from settling dust.
Timeline and Scheduling
The timeline for a hardwood floor refinishing project can vary based on several factors, including:
The size of the home
Type of stain
Prevailing weather conditions
Type of finish used
Characteristics of the wood itself
For instance, drying times between coats are determined by the type of finish; oil-based finishes generally require a longer drying time, while water-based finishes can dry within a few hours.
Therefore, proactive scheduling and transparent communication are crucial for minimizing disruptions and ensuring that each phase of the refinishing project is completed efficiently and on time.
Warranty and Aftercare
Once your hardwood floors are beautifully refinished, the last thing you want to worry about is what happens if something goes wrong. That’s where warranties and aftercare services come in. A solid warranty can provide homeowners with peace of mind, ensuring any issues arising within the warranty period can be addressed.
In addition, aftercare services, such as personalized advice on floor care and maintenance, can help maintain the floor’s durability and appearance.
Warranty Offered
Warranties for hardwood floor refinishing can cover workmanship, materials, or a combination of both, and the period can vary, with some contractors offering coverage for up to 10 years. It’s crucial to obtain a written contract that details all terms of the warranty agreed upon between the homeowner and the contractor.
This protects your investment in the refinishing project and provides assurance that any issues within the warranty period will be addressed.
Aftercare Services
Aftercare services for refinished floors typically include:
Using specific cleaning products recommended by the contractor
Avoiding practices that could damage the floor
Personalized advice on floor care
Additional treatments and information on curing times
Guidance on floor use post-refinishing
These services are essential for maintaining the beauty and durability of your refinished floors.
Such services can help you maintain the durability and appearance of your floors refinished for many years to come, including outdoor refinishing.
Saving Money on Hardwood Floor Refinishing
While the cost of hardwood floor refinishing can vary widely, there are ways to save money without compromising on quality. By comparing quotes, considering DIY vs. professional services, and potentially taking on some tasks like moving furniture and preparing the subfloor, you can manage your budget effectively when you decide to replace hardwood floors.
However, it’s crucial to remember that while the upfront cost of DIY might be lower, the long-term value, expertise, and assurance that come with professional services, such as an installation job, can make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Comparing Quotes
Comparing quotes from multiple contractors can help you find the best value for your refinishing project. However, when comparing quotes, it’s important not just to look at the bottom line cost but also to consider other factors such as the type and quality of finish proposed, specific stain choices, and the approach for repairing damaged areas.
This ensures a complete and transparent cost comparison that can help you make an informed decision.
DIY vs. Professional Services
Choosing between DIY and professional services is another important decision when planning your hardwood floor refinishing. While DIY could cost less initially, potential mistakes and lower quality finishes could result in higher future costs. On the other hand, professional services offer the advantage of expert craftsmanship and potentially a warranty, although they come at a higher initial cost. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option to determine which is the most cost-effective choice in the long run.
Questions to Ask Potential Contractors
Choosing the right hardwood floor refinishing contractor is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your project. To make an informed decision, you should ask potential contractors about:
Their experience
References
Materials and techniques
Payment terms and conditions
This will provide you with valuable insights into their professionalism, work quality, and reliability.
Experience and References
One of the first questions you should ask a potential contractor is about their experience. Here are some questions to consider:
How long have they been in the field?
What types of projects have they handled?
Can they provide a list of references to verify their previous work quality?
Contacting previous clients to discuss their experiences can provide valuable insights into the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.
Materials and Techniques
Discussing the materials and techniques used in the refinishing process is another crucial aspect. This conversation can help you understand if the contractor is able to meet your specific preferences and concerns. It’s also a good way to gauge their expertise and knowledge of the trade.
Payment Terms and Conditions
Finally, you should clarify the payment terms and conditions. Understanding the deposit requirements, final payment expectations, as well as the possibility of penalty interest on late payments, is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and potential disputes.
Also, it’s important to understand their policy regarding deposits and procedures for addressing potential breach of contract or contract termination scenarios.
Summary
Choosing the right hardwood floor refinishing contractor is a decision that requires careful consideration. By evaluating a contractor’s experience, expertise, customer satisfaction, and skill level, and verifying their licensing, insurance, and certifications, you can ensure you’re hiring a professional who can deliver high-quality, durable results. Understanding the refinishing process and what to expect can help you set realistic expectations for your project. Additionally, considering warranties and aftercare services, comparing quotes, and weighing the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional services can help you manage costs effectively. Finally, asking potential contractors about their experience, references, materials and techniques, and payment terms and conditions can provide valuable insights for making an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to refinish or replace hardwood floors?
Refinishing hardwood floors is typically cheaper than replacing them due to the costs of additional wood and installation involved in replacement. Consider refinishing as a cost-effective option for hardwood floor maintenance.
Is it worth refinishing old hardwood floors?
Refinishing old hardwood floors is worth it as it can fix surface-level problems, change the color, and can last 20-30 years before needing refinishing. Refinishing is a cost-effective option compared to installing new carpeting.
What qualities should I look for in a hardwood floor refinishing contractor?
Look for a contractor with proven experience, a history of satisfied customers, and a high skill level to ensure an efficient and effective restoration. Quality of work and customer satisfaction are key.
Why is it important for a contractor to be licensed and insured?
It is important for a contractor to be licensed and insured to protect you from potential legal complications and financial burdens that may arise from accidental damage during the process.
What does the hardwood floor refinishing process involve?
The hardwood floor refinishing process involves sanding to remove old finishes, staining for color change, and applying multiple finishes for protection and aesthetics.