Hardwood Floor Refinishing
We transform tired, scratched, and dull floors into stunning showpieces that add value and beauty to your home. Our complete refinishing process includes sanding down the wood, repairing any damage, and applying fresh stain and finish, making your floors look brand new again.
We've built strong relationships with homeowners and builders throughout San Francisco by delivering exceptional results and taking genuine pride in our craftsmanship. When you choose us for your hardwood floor refinishing project, you're working with professionals who understand the unique challenges of San Francisco homes and can recommend the best solutions for your specific needs.
Our team specializes in all aspects of hardwood floor restoration. We handle everything from repairing damaged boards and filling gaps to addressing structural issues beneath the surface. Our refinishing process begins with thorough sanding to remove the old finish and reveal fresh wood. We use a multi-stage sanding process with progressively finer grits to ensure a perfectly smooth surface.
We offer comprehensive staining options from light natural tones to rich dark finishes, custom color matching, and specialized techniques like hand-scraping or wire-brushing to achieve distinctive textures. Our finish options include oil-based polyurethane for maximum durability, water-based finishes for faster drying and lower odor, and natural oil finishes for an authentic look.
San Francisco's unique housing stock requires specialized knowledge. We have extensive experience with historic homes, including Victorian and Edwardian properties with original hardwood. We understand the city's climate challenges that affect wood flooring and provide tailored solutions for each neighborhood's conditions.
Our dust containment systems minimize cleanup, and we work efficiently to reduce disruption to your household. We provide detailed care instructions after completion and remain available for future maintenance needs. All our work comes with a satisfaction guarantee and warranty on both craftsmanship and materials.
The Basics of Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Hardwood floor refinishing involves several key steps that transform tired floors into stunning focal points. We begin with a detailed inspection to check for damage, wear patterns, and structural issues. This helps us determine the best approach for your specific floors.
The process starts with sanding, which removes the old finish, stains, and surface damage. We use professional-grade equipment that minimizes dust and creates a smooth surface. After sanding, we clean the floor thoroughly to prepare it for staining.
If you want to change or enhance the color, we apply stain at this stage. Our experts help you choose the right shade that complements your home's style. Finally, we apply several coats of protective finish that shield your floor from daily wear while highlighting the wood's natural beauty.
When to Determine Refinishing Is Necessary
Several signs indicate it's time to refinish your hardwood floors. The most obvious is visible wear – scratches, dents, and dull patches that detract from your floor's appearance. If water no longer beads on the surface but instead soaks in, your protective finish has worn away.
Faded areas, especially in high-traffic zones or sun-exposed sections, suggest it's time for refinishing. Gray or black spots can signal water damage that needs addressing before it worsens.
We recommend checking hidden spots under furniture or rugs and comparing them to exposed areas. A significant difference in color or shine indicates wear that refinishing can correct.
Most hardwood floors need refinishing every 7-10 years, but this varies based on foot traffic, maintenance practices, and quality of previous finishes. Our experts can assess your specific situation and recommend the best timing for optimal results.
Our Hardwood Floor Refinishing Process
Our comprehensive approach ensures your floors will look beautiful and last for years to come.
1. Initial Assessment and Consultation
We begin with a thorough inspection of your hardwood floors. Our experts check for damage, uneven areas, and structural issues that need attention. We'll measure the room and document wear patterns to develop a tailored refinishing plan.
During this visit, we discuss your vision for the floors. Do you want to maintain the current color or try something new? Are there specific areas that need special attention? We'll answer all your questions about the process, timeline, and what to expect.
We provide a detailed written estimate that includes all costs with no hidden fees. Our transparent approach helps you make an informed decision about your floor refinishing project.
2. Preparation and Repair Work
Before refinishing begins, we prepare your space properly. We help you move furniture and protect your belongings by covering them or suggesting temporary removal. We seal off other rooms to prevent dust from spreading throughout your home. Next, we address any repairs needed:
- Replacing damaged boards
- Fixing loose planks
- Filling gaps between boards
- Addressing squeaky spots
- Leveling uneven areas
For older floors with significant damage, we might recommend board replacement in certain sections. Our repair work ensures your floors have a solid foundation before the refinishing process begins.
3. Sanding and Staining
We use professional-grade dustless sanding equipment to remove the old finish and expose fresh wood. Our multi-step sanding process includes:
- Rough sanding to remove old finish and level the surface
- Medium sanding to smooth the wood
- Fine sanding for a perfectly smooth finish
After sanding, we carefully clean the entire area to remove all dust. Then comes the staining process if you've chosen to change or enhance your floor's color. We offer numerous stain options, from light natural tones to rich dark finishes.
We apply stain evenly and allow proper drying time between coats. This careful approach ensures consistent color throughout your floors.
4. Sealing and Finishing Touches
The final step is applying a protective finish coat to your freshly sanded and stained floors. We offer several finish options:
Water-based polyurethane:
- Fast-drying (24-48 hours)
- Low odor
- Environmentally friendly
- Clear finish that won't yellow
Oil-based polyurethane:
- Traditional finish
- Deeper, richer appearance
- More durable in high-traffic areas
- Longer curing time (3-7 days)
We typically apply 3-4 coats of finish, allowing proper drying time between each application. After the final coat, we recommend limited traffic for several days while the finish fully cures.
We perform a final inspection to ensure every square inch meets our high standards before considering the job complete.
5. Long-Term Care
Clean your floors every 1-2 weeks with a hardwood floor cleaner recommended by our technicians. Avoid using vinegar, soap-based cleaners, or wax products that can dull the finish. Maintain consistent indoor humidity levels (between 35-55%) to prevent wood from expanding or contracting. Use a humidifier in winter and air conditioning in summer if needed.
We recommend professional deep cleaning once a year to remove embedded dirt and refresh the protective coating. This extends the life of your refinishing job significantly. Watch for signs of wear in the finish, especially in high-traffic areas. Small issues can often be addressed with a screen and recoat rather than a full refinishing.
When to Call Us: If you notice dullness that doesn't improve with cleaning, scratches that catch your fingernail, or discoloration, it may be time for professional attention.
Materials and Techniques Used
We follow a detailed process that preserves the natural beauty of your floors while providing protection that stands up to daily wear.
Types of Finishes Available
We offer several finish options to match your lifestyle needs and aesthetic preferences:
- Oil-based polyurethane - Provides a warm, amber glow and excellent durability. Takes longer to dry but creates a rich, traditional look.
- Water-based polyurethane - Dries quickly and maintains the wood's natural color. Produces less odor and VOCs than oil-based options.
- Hard-wax oils - Penetrates deeply into wood for a natural, low-sheen finish. Easy to spot-repair and environmentally friendly.
- Swedish finishes - Extremely durable acid-cured finishes for high-traffic areas.
Each finish type has unique properties regarding sheen levels (matte, satin, semi-gloss, gloss), durability, and maintenance requirements. We'll help you choose the right option for your specific needs.
Innovative Refinishing Technologies
Our team uses the latest refinishing technologies to deliver superior results:
- Dustless sanding systems - Capture up to 98% of airborne dust during the sanding process, keeping your home cleaner.
- Commercial-grade drum and edger sanders - Ensure even, consistent sanding across your entire floor surface.
- UV-cured finishes - Instant-curing technology using ultraviolet light allows for faster project completion and immediate floor use.
We also employ advanced staining techniques like water-popping, which opens wood grain for deeper, more uniform color absorption. For older floors, we use specialized repair methods including board replacement and custom color matching to maintain your floor's original character.
Scheduling Your Refinishing Service
Getting your hardwood floors refinished is easy with San Francisco Flooring Company. We've streamlined our scheduling process to make it convenient for busy homeowners.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Booking Your Free Consultation
To start your refinishing project, simply call us to schedule a free in-home consultation. Our scheduling team will respond within 24 hours to confirm your appointment time. When you call, we'll ask about:
- Your floor type and condition
- Square footage of the area
- Your timeline preferences
- Any special concerns you have
We offer flexible scheduling options including evenings and weekends to accommodate your busy life. Our consultation typically takes about 30-45 minutes. During this time, we'll measure your space, inspect your floors, and discuss your vision for the refinished result.
What to Expect During the Service
Once you approve our quote, we'll schedule your refinishing service, which typically takes 3-5 days depending on your floor size and condition. You'll receive a specific timeline during your consultation.
Prior to our arrival, please remove all furniture from the space, secure pets elsewhere, and clear items from closets if the floors extend inside. On service day, our team will arrive on time and begin by protecting your walls and fixtures.
The refinishing process involves sanding the existing finish, repairing damaged areas, applying stain if you've selected it, and finishing with multiple coats. We'll keep you informed of our progress throughout the project.
FAQs About Hardwood Floor Refinishing
We've compiled answers to the most common questions about our hardwood floor refinishing services. These insights will help you understand our process, options, and what makes our work exceptional.
What is the standard process for refinishing hardwood floors with San Francisco Flooring Company?
Our refinishing process begins with a thorough assessment of your floors. We then clear the space and protect your home from dust and debris. Next, we sand the floors to remove the old finish and imperfections. We start with coarse-grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits for a smooth surface. After sanding, we clean the entire area and apply stain if desired. We finish with 2-3 coats of polyurethane or other sealants, allowing proper drying time between applications.
Are there different refinishing options available for varying wood floor conditions?
Yes, we offer several refinishing options based on your floor's condition. For floors with minor wear, we provide a screen and recoat service that refreshes the surface without deep sanding. For more damaged floors, our full refinishing service removes all imperfections and creates a new surface. We also offer specialized services for antique or historic floors that require gentle restoration techniques to preserve their character.
How do San Francisco Flooring Company's services stand out in terms of quality and reliability?
We use commercial-grade equipment and premium finishes that exceed industry standards. Our sanders produce more consistent results than rental equipment, eliminating swirl marks and uneven surfaces. Our technicians have an average of 12 years of experience in hardwood refinishing. This expertise allows us to handle unexpected challenges that often arise with older floors. We also provide detailed contracts and warranties on our work, giving you peace of mind about your investment.
Can you provide an estimated timeline for a typical hardwood floor refinishing project?
Most residential refinishing projects take 3-5 days from start to finish. Day 1 includes preparation and sanding. Days 2-3 involve staining and applying the first coats of finish. The final coats and cure time typically take another 1-2 days. Larger projects or those requiring specialized techniques may take longer. We always provide a specific timeline during our initial consultation based on your unique project requirements.
How often is it recommended to refinish hardwood floors to maintain their quality?
Hardwood floors typically need refinishing every 7-10 years with normal use. However, high-traffic areas may require attention sooner. We recommend a maintenance coat every 3-5 years to extend the life of your finish. This involves light buffing and applying a new topcoat without full sanding. Regular cleaning with products designed for hardwood floors will also extend the life of your finish and reduce the frequency of refinishing.