Englewood Wood Floor Refinishing: Costs, Process & Tips

Beautiful hardwood floors can really add character and value to your Englewood home. But over time, normal wear and tear can cause them to lose their luster. Refinishing your wood floors is one of the best ways to make them look brand new again.

Refinishing involves sanding down the existing floor to bare wood and applying new stain and/or sealant. This removes scratches, discoloration and damage, revealing the beautiful wood underneath.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about refinishing wood floors in Englewood, including costs, the process, and tips for hiring contractors.

Cost to Refinish Wood Floors in Englewood

The cost to refinish hardwood floors in Englewood ranges from $2.50-$6 per square foot on average. This covers sanding, staining, sealing and applying finish coats. Additional repairs like replacing boards or leveling subfloors will add to the total cost.

Some of the factors that influence the overall price include:

• Square footage – Larger areas will have higher total costs but may have cheaper per square foot pricing.
• Floor type – More durable hardwoods like oak will be cheaper than softer woods that require extra sanding.
• Current condition – Floors in poor shape need more repairs and extra sanding/staining.
• Location – Accessibility impacts labor costs in different rooms.
• Specialty finishes – Custom stains, borders or inlays will increase costs.

Always get quotes from at least 3 Englewood floor refinishing contractors before deciding on a budget. Many provide free estimates.

Step by Step Wood Floor Refinishing Process

Refinishing hardwood floors involves multiple steps performed in a precise order. Here is the standard process from start to finish:

1. Move Out Furniture – All furniture and rugs need to be removed from the room before starting.
2. Deep Clean – Vacuuming then cleaning with wood cleaner removes built-up dirt.
3. Repairs – Inspect for loose boards, squeaks or damage. Make repairs before sanding.
4. Sand Floors – Drum sanders with varying grits are used to sand off old finish.
5. Vacuum – Thorough vacuuming removes all dust between sanding and staining.
6. Stain & Seal – Stain is applied if desired, followed by 2-3 coats of sealant.
7. Finish Coats – Polyurethane or other finish protects the floors with a glossy coat.
8. Install Flooring – After drying, new baseboards are added and furniture can be moved back in.

The process typically takes 3-5 days from start to finish depending on the size of the area. Proper prep work is crucial for good results.

Key Tips for Hiring an Englewood Floor Refinishing Contractor

Finding the right contractor is the most important decision for a successful refinishing project. Here are the top tips for hiring in Englewood:

• Get at least 3-5 quotes from local contractors before deciding. Compare their prices, methods and materials.
• Verify they are licensed, bonded and insured for your protection. Ask for proof.
• Check reviews on sites like Google to see feedback from past customers. Look for consistently positive reviews.
• Ask about their experience with your specific hardwood floor type and finish. An expert in oak floors is ideal if you have oak.
• Request a detailed written scope of work outlining the full process, expected costs and project timeline.
• Make sure they follow proper protocols like vacuum dust containment and isolating work areas.
• Avoid payments upfront if possible. Paying in increments after work is complete is best.

Doing your due diligence helps find the most qualified refinishing company for your project.

Products Used for Refinishing in Englewood

High-quality products are critical for achieving a like-new floor surface. Here are some of the top products used:

• Sandpaper and sanding disks – Multiple grits from coarse to fine remove old finish.
• Edgers and scrapers – Hand tools are used for detail sanding corners and edges.
• Stains – Penetrating stains add color if desired before sealing. Water or oil-based are most common.
• Sealants – Sealers like shellac provide base protection from moisture.
• Polyurethane – Clear gloss polyurethane is the typical final finish coating.
• Buffers and pads – Buffing with steel wool or pads between coats creates an ultra-smooth finish.

Always verify the specific brands and grades of products used. Top-tier materials lead to better longevity and appearance.

types of Wood Floors in Englewood Homes

Englewood homes feature a variety of beautiful wood flooring options that each refinish a little differently:

• Oak – Red oak is one of the most popular choices in the area. Durable and affordable.
• Maple – Hard Canadian maple is prized for its light color. Can have a glossy finish.
• Hickory – Extremely hard wood with variation in colors and grain. Adds rustic charm.
• Cherry – Rich red tones that darken gradually over time. Stains easily.
• Walnut – Luxurious chocolate brown color. One of the most expensive options.
• Ash – Light brown like oak but with more coarse, open grain. Budget-friendly.
• Douglas Fir – Soft pine-like grain that’s common in mountain areas.

The contractor will tailor the refinishing process to your specific wood species. Some may require extra sanding or staining.

Should You Refinish or Replace Your Floors?

Deciding between refinishing your existing floors versus replacing them completely is a common dilemma. Here are some tips on when to refinish or replace:

When to Refinish

• If the subfloor is structurally sound with no sagging or squeaking
• If you want to preserve the wood species and attributes
• If the overall condition is good with minimal damage or wear
• To match or blend new and existing flooring in adjacent rooms
• To restore historic floors with aesthetic value

When to Replace

• If the subfloor is damaged or uneven and cannot be repaired
• If you want to change the color or wood species
• If the floor is cupped, warped or otherwise structurally unsound
• If existing boards are very narrow or short pieces
• If the prior finish is poor quality or is contaminated

An evaluation by a flooring professional can help assess if refinishing or replacement makes more sense for your goals.

Maintaining Refinished Floors

To keep your newly refinished floors looking fresh for years to come, be sure to follow these maintenance best practices:

• Vacuum frequently and use dust mops to prevent grit buildup.
• Wipe spills immediately to avoid stains and water damage.
• Place rugs at entryways to minimize dirt, sand and debris being tracked in.
• Avoid walking on floors with cleats, sports shoes or high heels.

-Rearrange furniture periodically to limit uneven wear patches.

• Reapply polyurethane or other finish coat every 3-5 years.

With proper care, your refinished floors can stay beautiful for decades while adding value and charm to your home.

Get a Free Estimate on Your Englewood Wood Floor Refinishing Project

If your hardwood floors are looking worn out and dated, refinishing is an efficient and cost-effective way to restore their beauty. This complete guide covers everything you need to know, from costs to the process, products used and tips for upkeep.

Ready to get started? Connect with a top-rated Englewood flooring contractor today to schedule your free in-home estimate. Let the experts evaluate your existing floors and provide recommendations to protect your investment for years into the future. Beautiful wood floors help you fall in love with your home again – get your refinishing project started now