Question 1

How much does hardwood floor refinishing cost in Charlotte?

Accepted Answer

Refinishing typically runs $3-7 per square foot in the Charlotte area. The final price depends on:

• Square footage - Larger spaces often have a lower per-square-foot cost
• Floor condition - Heavily damaged floors require more prep work
• Staining - Custom stain colors add to the cost
• Finish type - Water-based finishes cost more than oil-based (but last longer)

For a typical living room (300-400 sq ft), expect around $1,200-$2,500 for a complete refinish. We provide detailed quotes after seeing your floors - no guesswork, no surprises.

Question 2

How much does new hardwood floor installation cost?

Accepted Answer

Installation costs $8-15 per square foot for materials and labor, depending on:

• Wood type - Oak is moderate; exotic species cost more
• Solid vs. engineered - Similar pricing, different applications
• Pattern - Standard straight installation is cheapest; herringbone and custom patterns cost more
• Subfloor prep - If your subfloor needs work, that adds to the total

We're happy to provide a detailed quote for your specific project.

Question 3

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We'll come to your home, look at your floors, discuss what you want, and give you a clear, written quote. No charge. No obligation. No pressure.

Question 4

Do you require a deposit?

Accepted Answer

For most residential jobs, we ask for a deposit to secure your spot on our schedule. Typically 30-50% depending on project size. The balance is due when the work is complete and you're satisfied.

Question 5

How long does refinishing take?

Accepted Answer

Standard refinish: 2-3 days for most rooms
Larger homes: 3-5 days
With staining: Add 1 day

Here's how it breaks down:
• Day 1: Sanding and prep
• Day 2: Staining (if applicable) and first coat of finish
• Day 3: Additional finish coats and touch-ups

You can typically walk on the floor in socks after 24 hours. Wait 3-5 days for normal use and 7-14 days before putting down rugs or moving heavy furniture.

Question 6

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

For a standard straight installation, figure about 100-150 square feet per day. A 1,000 square foot project usually takes 2-3 days plus time for finishing if you're installing unfinished wood. Custom patterns like herringbone take longer - roughly half the speed of standard installation.

Question 7

Do I need to move out during refinishing?

Accepted Answer

Usually no. You'll want to avoid the work area while we're sanding and finishing, but you can stay in other parts of your house. We seal off the work area to contain dust. If you have respiratory issues, are pregnant, or have very young children, staying elsewhere during sanding day might be more comfortable. We're happy to discuss the best approach for your situation.

Question 8

When is the best time of year for hardwood floor work?

Accepted Answer

Fall is ideal in North Carolina - moderate temperatures and lower humidity mean the wood and finishes behave predictably. Spring is also excellent. Summer is fine but requires more attention to humidity levels. Winter works well if your home has consistent heating. We work year-round. We just adjust our approach based on conditions.

Question 9

What do I need to do before you arrive?

Accepted Answer

For refinishing:
• Remove small items from the room (we can move furniture if you prefer)
• Clear the area under and around furniture
• Remove anything hanging on walls near the floor
• Let us know about any pets that need to be contained

For installation:
• The old flooring should be removed (or we can do this)
• The room should be cleared of furniture
• Accept delivery of wood 3-5 days early for acclimation

We'll give you a complete prep checklist when we schedule your job.

Question 10

How do I maintain my floors after refinishing?

Accepted Answer

Daily/weekly:
• Sweep or dry mop to remove grit that can scratch
• Use floor-specific cleaner (we'll recommend brands)
• Wipe up spills promptly

Avoid:
• Wet mopping with lots of water
• Steam cleaners
• Vinegar, oil soap, or harsh cleaners
• Dragging furniture

Long-term:
• Use felt pads under furniture legs
• Place mats at entrances to catch dirt
• Keep pet nails trimmed
• Maintain indoor humidity between 35-55%

Question 11

How often should hardwood floors be refinished?

Accepted Answer

Every 7-10 years is typical for normal residential use. You might need it sooner if:
• You have large dogs
• High foot traffic (growing families, busy households)
• Light-colored floors (show wear more)

You might go longer if:
• Low traffic areas (formal rooms)
• No pets
• Consistent care routine

Question 12

What's the difference between solid and engineered hardwood?

Accepted Answer

Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like - solid wood, usually 3/4" thick. It can be refinished many times over decades. Best for main living floors. Note: solid wood naturally expands and contracts with seasons—small gaps in winter (dry air) that close in summer (humidity) are completely normal.

Engineered hardwood has a real wood top layer (the part you see) over a plywood core. It's more dimensionally stable—won't shrink or show seasonal gaps. Can be installed over concrete. Higher quality engineered wood can be refinished 2-3 times.

Neither is better universally. Solid wood is more traditional and can be refinished indefinitely. Engineered works better in basements, over concrete, and where seasonal stability matters.

Question 13

Water-based or oil-based finish - which is better?

Accepted Answer

Water-based:
• More durable finish
• Dries faster (walk on it sooner)
• Low odor, low VOCs
• Crystal clear appearance, won't yellow
• Higher cost
• Modern, clean look

Oil-based:
• Less durable than water-based
• Longer dry time (2-3 days before normal use)
• More fumes during application
• Adds slight amber warmth that deepens over time
• More affordable option
• Traditional, classic look

We recommend water-based for most Charlotte homeowners - it's more durable and you're back to normal life faster. We're happy to explain the trade-offs for your specific situation.

Question 14

What sheen should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Matte/Flat: Very low shine. Modern look. Hides scratches and dust best. Very popular right now.

Satin: Subtle glow. Most versatile. Good at hiding wear while still looking polished.

Semi-Gloss: Noticeable shine. Shows scratches and dust more. Classic look.

Gloss: High shine. Shows everything. Dramatic but high-maintenance look.

If you have kids, pets, or high traffic - matte or satin. If you want a showroom look and don't mind more visible wear - semi-gloss or gloss.

Question 15

Where do you work?

Accepted Answer

We serve Charlotte and surrounding areas within about 35-40 miles:

North: Huntersville, Concord, Davidson, Mooresville, Kannapolis
South: Fort Mill SC, Rock Hill SC, Pineville, Matthews
East: Mint Hill, Monroe, Indian Trail
West: Gastonia, Mount Holly, Belmont

If you're not sure whether we cover your area, just ask. We might.

Question 16

Do you charge more for areas farther from Charlotte?

Accepted Answer

Generally no - if you're in our service area, you're in our service area. Extremely remote locations might have a small trip charge, but we'll tell you upfront.

Question 17

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Happy to provide proof of insurance for your records.

Question 18

Do you use dustless refinishing?

Accepted Answer

We use dust containment systems that capture most dust at the sander. No refinishing is truly "dustless" - wood sanding produces fine particles. But our equipment keeps it contained to the work area instead of spreading throughout your home.

Question 19

How long have you been in business?

Accepted Answer

Since 2006 - that's nearly two decades of hardwood flooring experience. We started in Colorado and recently relocated to Charlotte.

Question 20

Do you do commercial work?

Accepted Answer

Primarily residential, but we're open to discussing commercial projects depending on scope and timing. Give us a call.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does hardwood floor refinishing cost in Charlotte?

How much does new hardwood floor installation cost?

Do you offer free estimates?

Do you require a deposit?

Still Have Questions?