Flooring Restoration FAQ

At Restore a Floor we know that making decisions about your flooring project comes with many questions. We have pulled together some of the most common questions we are asked by our customers below to provide you with information that will help. If you still have questions or would like to discuss your specific project requirements then please contact us via our contact form or call us on 01706 394129.

How long does the floor restoration process typically take?

Most residential projects, such as a standard lounge, dining room or hallway, are completed within 2 days. This includes the full sanding process, any necessary repairs or carpet/bitumen removal, and the application of a professional-grade finish. Larger commercial spaces or intricate parquet repairs may require additional time, which we will specify during your free site survey

Is your wood floor sanding really 98% dust-free?

Yes. We use the industry-leading Bona and Lagler Hummel continuous belt sanding systems, which are equipped with high-powered vacuum extraction. This setup captures approximately 98% of airborne dust at the source, ensuring your home stays clean and your air remains breathable throughout the restoration.

When can I walk on the floor after it has been lacquered?

We use advanced water-based lacquers that dry remarkably fast. You can typically walk on the floor in ‘socks only’ after just 3 hours. We recommend waiting 24 hours before moving furniture back (with protective pads) and 7 days before placing rugs or performing wet cleaning to allow the finish to fully cure.

Do you help with moving heavy furniture?

We understand that clearing a room can be the hardest part of the job. Unlike many contractors, we assist with moving heavier furniture items (such as sofas and dining tables) as part of our service. We simply ask that you clear any small, fragile, or electronic items before we arrive to ensure a safe and efficient workspace.

Are the floor finishes safe for children and pets?

Absolutely. We exclusively use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), non-toxic finishes like Bona Traffic HD. These 2-part polyurethane lacquers are specifically designed for high-traffic homes and are safe for both children and pets once dry. They provide a highly durable, scratch-resistant barrier that stands up to both paws and playtime.

Can you repair damaged boards, rotten joists, or remove old bitumen residue?

Yes, structural and cosmetic repairs are a core part of our service. We can also sort residue removal, gap filling with reclaimed wood dust, and repairing damaged joists (if possible). If we discover rotten joists that cannot be repaired, we will let you know as soon as possible.

What are the pros and cons of Lacquer vs. Hard Wax Oil finishes?

Choosing the right finish depends on your lifestyle and the ‘look’ you want to achieve. Here is a quick comparison:

• 2-Part Lacquer (e.g., Bona Traffic HD): >

  • Pros: Extremely durable, highly water-resistant, and ‘set and forget’ maintenance. Best for kitchens, pets, and high-traffic areas.

  • Cons: If it does get scratched, you might not be able to ‘patch repair’ a single spot; the whole floor may eventually need a light buff and coat.

• Hard Wax Oil:

  • Pros: Provides a rich, natural matte look that enhances the grain. Most importantly, it is locally repairable, you can sand and re-oil a small scuff without doing the whole room.

  • Cons: Requires more regular maintenance (occasional buffing with liquid wax cleaner) and is slightly less durable and resistant to standing water than lacquer.

Can engineered wood flooring be sanded and restored?

In most cases, yes. Unlike laminate, engineered wood has a real timber top layer (wear layer). As long as this layer is thick enough, we can professionally sand and refinish it. There may be a limit to the number of times engineered wood can be sanded, so let us know if you are aware of a previous sanding. We can perform a check during our initial survey to ensure there is enough wood remaining to achieve a high-quality, long-lasting finish, if you are unsure.

How much does flooring restoration cost?

One of the main considerations for any flooring project is cost. Repairing and restoring a quality real wood floor is the best option long term. Short term, cheap replacements may age and wear badly and may not be suitable for restoration at a later date. It may surprise you to hear that restoring your floors is often a lot more cost effective than you may think. If you would like to receive a free no obligation quotation for your restoration project then please contact us via our contact form or call us on 01706 394129.

Are all floorboards suitable for restoration?

Most types of wood are ideal for flooring restoration. Oak, fir and pine can all be sanded and restored and then treated, waxed or stained to create the look you are aiming for. If your property and floorboards are very old,  chances are at least some of your boards may be too damaged to restore. That is not a problem because we can easily replace them using reclaimed boards. Once fitted, sanded and finished, these replacement boards will blen in seamlessly with your existing flooring.