Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Philadelphia

 Hardwood floor refinishing is a multi-step process that breathes new life into your floors. We start by sanding down the existing finish and any surface imperfections. Then, we clean the floor thoroughly and apply stain if desired. Finally, we lay down multiple coats of a high-quality finish, typically polyurethane, to protect the wood and give it that classic Philly shine .

 In a bustling city like Philadelphia, with our four seasons and high foot traffic, we recommend refinishing every 7-10 years for residential properties. However, this can vary based on the wood type, daily wear, and how well you maintain your floors. Regular cleaning and prompt attention to spills can extend the time between refinishes. 

 Absolutely! Our refinishing process can tackle most deep scratches and dents. The initial sanding phase removes a thin layer of wood, effectively erasing many years of wear and tear. For particularly deep damage, we might need to fill in some areas before refinishing, but we can usually restore your floor to its former glory. 

 For high-traffic areas in Philly homes, we often recommend a water-based polyurethane finish. It's durable, dries quickly, and maintains its clarity over time without yellowing. For areas that see extreme wear, like entryways, we might suggest an oil-based polyurethane for its superior durability, despite the longer drying time.

 Antique heart pine, common in many of Philly's historic homes, requires a gentler touch. We use finer grit sandpaper and may hand-scrape certain areas to preserve the wood's character. We're also careful with staining, as heart pine can absorb stain unevenly. Our goal is to enhance the floor's natural beauty while preserving its historic charm.

 Refinishing is a much more eco-friendly option than replacement. It preserves the existing wood, reducing demand for new lumber. It also minimizes waste sent to landfills. In a city as environmentally conscious as Philadelphia, refinishing aligns well with our commitment to sustainability. 

 The duration depends on the size of the area and the condition of the floors, but typically, we can refinish the hardwood floors of an average Philly rowhome in 3-5 days. This includes sanding, staining (if desired), and applying multiple coats of finish with adequate drying time between coats. 

 While refinishing primarily addresses the floor's appearance, it can help with minor squeaks. During the process, we can identify and fix loose boards. For persistent squeaks, we might recommend additional carpentry work to secure the subfloor or joists, which we can often do in conjunction with the refinishing process.

 We understand the importance of dust control, especially in tight Philly rowhomes. We use advanced dust containment systems connected directly to our sanders. We also seal off work areas with plastic sheeting and use air scrubbers to filter the air. Our goal is to leave your home as clean as we found it, just with gorgeous new floors.

 While DIY can be tempting, professional refinishing typically yields superior, longer-lasting results. We have industrial-grade equipment that sands more evenly than rental machines. Our expertise also allows us to address issues specific to Philadelphia homes, like dealing with old shellac finishes or adjusting techniques for different wood types. Plus, our application of commercial-grade finishes ensures a durable, beautiful result that often lasts years longer than DIY jobs.