1. Do I have to move out?
This is the most frequently asked question, and the most frequent answer is NO. Accessibility to bathrooms & bedrooms is the greatest concern. We work with our customers’ schedules to insure access to all areas when needed i.e. early morning coats are dry by late afternoon when residents return from work & school.
2. What about the dust?
When sanding floors there is no avoiding dust. To minimize this nuisance our machines are equipped with vacuum systems. The dust is collected in bags which are removed from the house and the dust disposed of.
3. What about my furniture?
All furniture must be removed from rooms to be sanded. The only exceptions are pianos & some very large wall units. The homeowner is responsible for furniture moving unless prearranged with North Country Hardwood Floors.
4. What about the stains?
Most stains can be removed by sanding. However, some severe stains may not completely disappear. In such cases a decision has to be made whether the remain-ing stain is tolerable i.e. in an area where it won’t be noticed, or if the floor boards must be replaced.
5. Are hardwood floors difficult to take care of?
Hardwood floors should be vacuumed usually once a week, the same as carpeting. The finish on wood floors helps eliminate permanent stains if cleaned up immediately. Hardwood floors can be maintained to stay beautiful and new for many many years.
6. Are hardwood floors more expensive than other floor coverings?
The initial cost of wood flooring with installation and finishing is a big investment, but is comparable to or less than other quality non-wood surfaces. Wood flooring retains or increases the monetary value of homes and buildings. Wood flooring is an investment. Whereas carpet will need replacing on average of every 7-10 years, hardwood floors will last a century or more.
7. Are hardwood floors good for your health?
The EPA reports that over 35 million Americans suffer from allergies caused by poor indoor air quality. Hardwood floors do not trap or harbor dust mites or molds.
8. How long does it take for the floor to dry after each coat of finish is applied?
First and second coats take 4-6 hours
A final coat of oil base polyurethane will take 8-12 hours.
A final coat of water base polyurethane will take 4-6 hours.
9. What temperature should the rooms be during the finishing process?
The home should maintain 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit with minimal humidity, if it is to hot or to cold or to humid it could cause the finish to dry incorrectly or prolong the drying time.
10. How will my floor hold up over the long haul as far as cracks and loads.
Wood is a natural product that is made to expand and contract depending on the conditions. The key to hardwood floor stability is humidity, the ideal air moisture content is 35% year round. This can be achieved by humidifying during the winter months and dehumidifying during the hot summer months. Doing this will greatly reduce the risk of “Gapping”. Each species of wood has its own grain patterns and personality, choosing the right wood for the conditions in your home is really the best solution. You can’t argue with Mother Nature!