Hardwood Flooring FAQ
Have questions about hardwood floor refinishing, repairs, or maintenance? Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions homeowners in Sarnia and Lambton County ask about hardwood restoration and care.
Bona® Certified Craftsman
FAQ
How do I know if my hardwood floors need refinishing?
If your hardwood floors show deep scratches, worn traffic areas, discoloration, or a faded protective finish, professional refinishing may be necessary. During refinishing, the floor is sanded down to bare wood and sealed with new stain and protective coats.
For minor dullness or light surface wear, a professional recoat or maintenance service may be enough to restore appearance and protection without full sanding.
How long does hardwood floor refinishing take?
Most hardwood refinishing or restoration projects take 3–6 days, depending on the size of the space, the condition of the floor, and the type of finish selected.
Drying and curing time varies, and we provide clear guidance on when it’s safe to walk on the floors and move furniture back in.
Can you repair damaged boards instead of replacing the entire floor?
Yes. In many cases, we can replace or repair individual hardwood boards and blend them seamlessly with the surrounding floor.
We carefully assess the wood species, grade, and stain to ensure the repair matches naturally and maintains the visual integrity of your floor.
What is the difference between Refinish, Restore, and Revive?
Refinish:
Full sanding to bare wood, removal of scratches and old finish, followed by stain (if desired) and protective topcoats.
Restore (Screen & Recoat):
Light surface abrasion and application of a new protective coat without sanding to bare wood. Ideal for moderate wear.
Revive (Professional Cleaning):
Deep cleaning designed for lightly worn floors that need refreshment without recoating.
We assess your floors and recommend the most appropriate solution based on condition and long-term durability.
Can you match the color of my existing hardwood floors?
Yes. We evaluate the wood species, age, grain pattern, and existing stain to achieve the closest possible color match during repairs or new installations.
Our goal is a seamless transition that looks natural within your space.
How do I maintain my hardwood floors after refinishing?
To protect your refinished hardwood floors:
- Use a dry microfiber mop regularly
- Clean with hardwood-safe products only
- Avoid excessive water or steam cleaning
- Use felt pads under furniture
- Schedule periodic maintenance recoats when needed
Proper maintenance helps extend the life of your finish and protect your investment.
Do I need to leave my home during refinishing?
For full sanding and refinishing, some homeowners prefer temporary relocation due to equipment noise and limited room access.
For maintenance services, screen & recoat, or minor repairs, remaining in the home is usually manageable. We discuss expectations in advance so you can plan accordingly
Will there be a lot of dust during sanding?
We use advanced dust-contained sanding systems designed to significantly reduce airborne dust.
While no sanding process is 100% dust-free, our professional containment equipment keeps your home much cleaner compared to traditional sanding methods.
Still Have Questions?
If you’re unsure which hardwood flooring service is right for your home, we’re happy to help.
- Serving Sarnia & Lambton County.