FLOORING GUIDE | EXPERT ARTICLE
How Long Does Hardwood Floor Refinishing Take?
The timeline for refinishing hardwood floors depends on the square footage, floor condition, and finish applied. A standard 1,000 sq. ft. refinishing project takes 3 to 5 days from start to finish.
Typical dry times vary by product and conditions.
Phases of the Project:
- Sanding (Days 1-2): Removing the old finish to bare wood.
- Staining (Day 3): Applying custom color (if requested) and allowing it to dry overnight.
- Finishing (Days 4-5): Applying 2-3 coats of polyurethane. Water-based finishes allow light foot traffic in 4-6 hours. Oil-based finishes require 24 hours before walking on them.
- Furniture Return & Full Curing: Wait at least 48-72 hours before returning heavy furniture. Full chemical curing takes 7 to 14 days, during which rugs should stay off the floor.
Ready to discuss your flooring project?
Whether you are planning a complete restoration, a screen and recoat, or routine maintenance, our team brings a floor-first, detail-focused approach to every project.