Hardwood floors add warmth and depth to your home, and they certainly repel dirt and stains much easier than carpet, but they don’t last forever. Here’s a primer on hardwood floor resurfacing.
Leave it to the pros. Resurfacing hardwoods is typically a job beyond the level of expertise of most DIYers. The last thing you want to do is damage the floors, adding time and money to the job.
How to hire a contractor. When they all promise to do a great job, in a timely fashion and under budget, how do you choose? Ask your neighbors who they recommend. Also seek input from your insurance agent or real estate agent. Check these references against reports filed with local and state consumer protection agencies. Request a written contract and don’t pay for anything up front. Ask for copies of receipts for all materials involved.
Resurfacing as part of a home sale. Ask the sellers to provide money at closing as opposed to having the floors redone under their supervision. That way, you can wait until after the sellers have moved out and before you move in to have the floors done, using a contractor you have vetted.
Allow one day of drying time for each coat of polyurethane. An oil-based polyurethane will last longer but will take a little longer to dry. A stain will also require 1 to 2 days of drying time. After the floors are dry, it’s best to wait another 24 hours before walking on them and another 3 to 4 days before moving the furniture back in. In total, it’s best to wait at least a week before moving in.
