Frequently asked questions.
ESTIMATE Questions
Why do I need to schedule an estimate appointment?
We’ll meet in your space and listen to your vision so we can understand your wants, needs, and lifestyle. We’ll measure and assess the space, and if you’d like, we’ll bring samples for you to explore in your space & lighting.
How much does an estimate cost?
There is no cost for an estimate in the Northern Colorado area.
How long does an estimate appointment take?
Length depends on your space and your vision. Larger spaces require more time. Please expect between 15-60 minutes. Shorter times for smaller spaces, longer times for larger spaces.
When will I receive my estimate?
You’ll receive your estimate within 48 hours. If custom parts are needed and it takes longer, we’ll keep you in the loop.
FURNITURE & APPLIANCE Questions
Do you move furniture and appliances?
No, but we will refer you to a partner of ours who does. They even move pianos!
When can furniture and appliances go back?
3 days after the final coat application.
How do I move appliances myself, properly?
We’ll teach you. Please do not roll appliances across a newly finished hardwood floor.
Can you install half of the floor, then have furniture moved, and install the other half of the floor?
No. The entire working area needs to be cleared prior to the project start date.
DESIGN Questions
Can you install custom patterns & borders?
Absolutely! We install custom patterns such as herringbone, chevron, basketweave, parquet, or straight-lay at a 45 degree angle. We also install custom borders with french knots, feature strips with either contrasting wood species or metals, custom inlays, picture-frame borders, medallions, etc.
How do I pick a stain color? Can I see samples?
We have quite a variety of stain colors to chose from. Or, we can create a custom stain tailored to your vision. We can create samples for you and lay samples in your home, so you can see it in your own home and in your own lighting.
What finishes do you offer?
We have multiple finish options to choose from. Water-based or oil-based. Residential or commercial grade. Matte, satin, or semi-gloss.
What’s the difference between water-based and oil-based?
Water-based finishes offer a clear, durable, natural look while protecting your floors from everyday wear. Residential and commercial grade options are available. This type of finish allows for quicker dry times than oil-based. Oil-based finishes enhance the natural beauty of hardwood. Instead of the finish coating the top of the floor, like water-based, and oil-based finish absorbs into the floor, providing a rich, organic look and feel.
INSTALLATION, REFINISHING, & RECOATING Questions
How much does refinishing hardwood cost?
Refinishing costs vary. Total cost depends on your species of hardwood, what maintenance products have been use, if a stain is selected and what color, if base moldings need removal, type of finish selected, if toilets need removing, if adjacent carpet needs tucking, etc.
How long does refinishing hardwood take?
Timeframes vary depending on size of space, if a stain is selected, if base moldings or toilets need removing. Small spaces can be completed in 2-3 days whereas large homes may take 2-3 weeks.
Do you offer dustless sanding or do I need to use plastic coverings?
Yes, we use a dust containment system. No, you do not need to use any plastic coverings.
Do I need to be out the house? What about my pets?
You are more than welcome to be in the home during the demo, installation, and sanding phases. However, you will not have access to the hardwood areas during the stain to final coat phases (last 1.5-2 days). However, please know that the equipment for demo, installation, and sanding can be rather loud.
Is there a strong odor? Do you offer low VOCs?
No, there is not a strong odor. Yes, our finishes are low VOC.
When can I walk on the floors again? And my pets?
You may walk on the floors about 4-6 hours after the final coat application, with socks only. Pets may return 3 days later, as the floor is still curing.
What’s the difference between refinishing & recoating?
Refinishing involves sanding your floor down to the raw wood. Doing so removes the finish and stain and gets rid of dents and scratches. Refinishing provides the opportunity to change stain color and/or finish.
Recoating involves a commercial clean of the hardwood, micro-abrading, and laying a new coat of finish.
Can you match my current hardwood where I want to install new hardwood?
Yes. We will determine species and grade of hardwood and chose a mill that best suits your existing hardwood. We can either weave in the new hardwood or create a header piece to define the two spaces.
POST-PROJECT Questions
What do I use to clean my hardwood floor?
Wait two weeks after the final coat has been applied. Then, use Loba products (Universal Floor Spray Cleaner or Universal Hard Surface Floor Cleaner Concentrate) with a Loba Microfiber Mop Pad, Spray Mop, and microfiber cloth. Sweep dust first to prevent scratches.
How do I avoid scratches on my floor?
Put 3M felt pads underneath all furniture, including chairs. Add felt rug pads underneath all area rugs.
Is there anything I should avoid using on my hardwood floor?
Steam mops, Orange Glo, Murphy’s Oil Soap, Weiman’s Hardwood Floor Cleaner, vinegar, or any shine-enhancing cleaners or polishing cleaners.