Hardwood floor refinishing in Chicago

When refinishing makes sense

A worn finish, dull traffic paths and surface scratches can be reasons to refinish. Sanding removes the existing coating and a small amount of wood, preparing the surface for a new protective finish. A sound floor with enough material left above its tongue or wear layer is the starting point.

Deep scratches, dark stains, loose boards and water damage need closer inspection. Some defects can remain after sanding; others call for individual board replacement first. Photos help us start the conversation, but an on-site assessment determines what can be restored.

What the work includes

We confirm the rooms, transitions and any repairs before work begins. Sanding progresses through suitable abrasives, with separate attention to edges and corners. The floor is prepared for the agreed color and protective finish.

Staining changes the wood's color; finish protects its surface. We discuss stain samples, sheen and the finish system before you approve the work. Wood species and existing repairs can affect how a color looks, so a sample on the actual floor is more useful than a screen image.

• Inspect the wood, previous sanding and damage.
• Agree on repairs, room access and furniture arrangements.
• Sand the floor and prepare edges and corners.
• Confirm color and apply the agreed finish system.
• Explain drying, furniture return and ongoing care.

Plan for drying and a clear work area

The schedule depends on the area, repairs, stain and number of finish coats. Drying between coats is different from full cure. Walking, furniture, rugs and cleaning may each have a different waiting period; follow the instructions for the product actually applied.

Before work starts, discuss where furniture will go, how people and pets will move through the home, and whether adjoining work needs to be completed first. In a condo or shared building, tell us about access rules, elevator reservations and permitted work hours. Sanding produces dust; discuss containment and cleanup expectations rather than assuming a dust-free job.

What affects a refinishing estimate?

Square footage matters, but so do layout, floor condition, damaged boards, old coatings, stairs, stain selection and site access. An empty open room and an occupied home with several small rooms can require different work even at the same size.

Send wide room photos and close-ups of scratches or staining, your ZIP code and an approximate area if you know it. We review the request, call about the next step and confirm the scope and final price in person. We do not publish a one-size-fits-all price.