Frequently Asked Questions About Hardwood Flooring
Learn more about hardwood flooring, including installation, refinishing, repairs, maintenance, and everything you need to know before your next project.
About Hardwood Floor Installation
How long does installation take from start to finish?
Scope drives timing. Most projects install in 2–5 working days, plus 2–7 days of acclimation (species and site conditions dependent). We’ll confirm a precise timeline during your on-site consultation.
Do you install over concrete, radiant heat, or existing floors?
Yes. Over concrete we add proper moisture mitigation; over radiant heat we specify engineered hardwood within manufacturer temperature tolerances; over existing floors we assess flatness and integrity. Our rule of thumb: flat, dry, and stable is non-negotiable.
Should I choose solid or engineered hardwood?
For above-grade, both are excellent. Solid excels for long-term refinishability; engineered shines in climate variability, wider planks, basements, and radiant heat. We recommend a bespoke specification based on lifestyle, aesthetics, and site conditions.
Can I stay in the home during installation?
Typically yes, with zoned work areas and minimal disruption. We handle furniture protection, dust containment during cuts, and daily clean-downs. Access to active areas is limited while adhesives cure and finishes set.
About Sanding and Refinishing
What makes your DustFree System different?
Our truck-mounted vacuum captures dust at the source, delivering a virtually dust-free experience—no haze on furnishings, no film on HVAC, no post-project cleanup drama. It’s cleaner, faster, and far more comfortable.
How long before I can walk on the floors—and when can rugs and furniture return?
With premium waterborne finishes, light foot traffic is often allowed in 3–4 hours, furniture in 24–48 hours, and rugs after ~7 days. Oil-modified systems typically need 8–12 hours to walk, 72+ hours for furniture, and 2–3 weeks for rugs. Timelines vary by product and climate; we’ll specify your exact cure window.
Can you change the color or keep it natural?
Absolutely. We offer custom staining (from Nordic pales to deep espresso) or natural clear to showcase grain. We always do on-site samples under your lighting to lock the perfect tone.
Do I need a full sand, or will a screen & recoat work?
If wear is light and the finish is intact, a screen & recoat refreshes sheen and protection without removing wood. Deep scratches, discoloration, or past DIY finishes typically call for a full sand and refinish for a uniform, like-new result.
About Restoration and Repairs
Can you fix isolated damage without replacing the entire floor?
Yes. We perform board replacements, weave-ins, Dutchman patches, and targeted spot repairs, then blend sanding and finishing for a seamless match to the surrounding field.
What about water damage, cupping, or buckling?
First we solve the moisture source, then we dry, flatten, and evaluate. Light cupping can often be corrected with time and a controlled refinish; severe buckling or delamination typically needs sectional replacement.
My floors squeak and there are seasonal gaps—is that normal?
Some movement is natural. We mitigate squeaks with mechanical fastening from below (where accessible) and address chronic gaps with repairs or humidity management. For legacy homes, we balance authenticity with stability.
Is restoration cost-effective versus starting over?
Often yes—especially with quality hardwood. Restoration preserves character, minimizes waste, and can deliver like-new performance at a lower total cost than full replacement. We’ll provide a clear, side-by-side scope and budget so you can decide with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hardwood FlooringAre you still unsure about something?
We’re here to help you make the best decision. Don’t hesitate to call us!
Let's Talk Ready to Elevate Your Floors?
Your vision deserves more than standard flooring. With Filenes Wood Floors LLC, you’ll experience luxury hardwood solutions designed for your lifestyle, executed with precision, and protected by our DustFree System.