Having new, refinished floors is something that we all want, but what does the process involve?
One of the most common questions that people have, when they explore the possibility of refinishing their floors, is whether they can stay in their home while the refinishing process is underway.
In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about the refinishing process and let you know how to stay in your home during it. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- The Short Answer
- Things to Keep in Mind
- What Does the Refinishing Process Involve?
- Tips for a Successful Refinishing Project
- How to Help Your Contractor
- Let’s Recap
The Short Answer
The short answer to this question is yes, you can stay in your home while your floors are being refinished! In fact, many people choose to do so because it is more convenient than finding alternative accommodations. Hopefully, this gives you some peace of mind as you enter this process!
Things to Keep in Mind
Of course, there are a few things that you should keep in mind if you decide to stay in your home during the refinishing process.
First, make sure that you have a plan in place for dealing with the dust that will occur during the sanding process.
You will also want to be prepared for some noise and odors, as well as make sure that you have a safe place for your pets and children to stay during the process.
Assuming you are prepared for these things, staying in your home while your floors are being refinished should be no problem!
What Does the Refinishing Process Involve?
Now that we’ve answered whether you can stay in your home during the refinishing process, let’s take a more detailed look at what that process involves.
There are four key steps to refinishing your floors:
- Preparing the floors
- Sanding the floors
- Staining the floors
- Applying a finish to the floors
Let’s take a more detailed look at each of these steps:
Preparing the Floors
The first step in refinishing your floors is to prepare them for sanding. This involves removing any existing finishes, waxes, or sealants that are on the floor.
Sometimes, it may also involve repairs, such as filling in holes or cracks. Once the floors get treated for these minor annoyances, they are ready for sanding.
Sanding the Floors
The next step is to sand the floors. This is done with a heavy-duty floor sander. The purpose of sanding is to remove the top layer of the wood so that a new finish can get added.
During this process, it is important to sand evenly to avoid creating any unevenness on the floor. Once the floors get sanded, they are ready for staining.
Staining the Floors
The third step in refinishing your floors is to apply a stain. This is done with a brush or roller. The stain will give the floors a new color and can also help to protect them from damage.
Once the stain gets applied, allow some time for drying before the next step.
Applying a Finish to the Floors
The fourth and final step is applying the finish. This is done with a roller or sprayer. The finish will protect the floors from damage and wear.
It will also give the floors a shiny, new appearance. Once the finish has gets applied, allow time for drying before using the floors.
Tips for a Successful Refinishing Project
Now that we’ve gone over the basics of the refinishing process, let’s look at some tips that will guarantee successful outcomes.
Hire a Professional
The first tip is to hire a professional. Given this is not a small project, you need to make sure the project is successful.
Hiring a professional, after careful due diligence, ensures that your floors will look their best.
Follow the Instructions
The second tip is to follow the instructions. The refinishing process is complex, and it is important to make sure that you follow the instructions carefully.
Failure to do so could cause damage to your floors.
Be Patient
The third tip is to be patient. The refinishing process takes time, and it is important to make sure that you allow the floors to dry completely before using them.
Enjoy Your New Floors
The fourth and final tip is to enjoy your new floors. Having new floors is also an opportunity to create a new look for your home.
Take the time to enjoy your new floors and be sure to show them off to your friends and family!
How to Help Your Contractor
If you have hired a contractor and you will stay in your home during the process, there are a few things that you can do to help your contractor finish the job quickly and efficiently.
Clear the Area
The first thing that you can do is clear the area. This means removing all furniture and other items from the room or rooms where the work will take place.
This will give your contractor plenty of space to work and it will also protect your belongings from dust and debris.
Trust me on this. Make their life easy and they’ll do wonders for your floors.
Prepare the Floors
The second thing that you can do is to prepare the floors. This means sweeping or vacuuming the floors to remove any dirt or debris.
It also means moving any rugs or mats that might be in the way. Preparing the floors will help your contractor to work more quickly and efficiently.
Be Flexible
The third thing that you can do is to be flexible. This means being willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate the work that needs to be done.
For example, if your contractor needs to work during the day, you may need to decide on your options for childcare.
Let’s Recap
In this article, we have discussed the basics of refinishing your floors. We have also looked at some tips for a successful outcome. Finally, we have discussed how you can help your contractor by preparing the area and being flexible.
Refinishing your floors is an extensive project, but it is also an opportunity to create a new look for your home. With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure that you did the job right and that your floors will look their best.
- About the Author
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John Thompson, Writer and Commentator, EvolutDesign.com
Soldier, writer, researcher, consultant, and bon vivant, John Thompson is the author of numerous columns, op-eds, reports, briefs, short stories and books as the “Felicity Files” and “Spirit Over Steel: A Chronology of the Second World War” (version III). Often found hunched over his computer, or in his garden, and now often found doing both. His diverse talent has led him to work in industries and projects such as energy, security and home construction and renovation.
