FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
More questions? Please contact us!
How much dust does the refinishing process produce?
Our machines are equipped with dust collection vacuum systems, thus reducing dust by a significant amount compared to traditional dust collection methods. We also seal off doorways of the work area. We try to treat your house like our own home. We understand that dust containment is essential for your family as well as ours.
How soon can I walk on the floors after they have been coated?
With socks, 4 hours. It is 100% cured after 7 days. This does depend on factors such as the weather, climate-control systems, and species of wood.
During the curing, you should not use any cleaner or water on the floor. (See our Floor Care page for more extensive instructions on how to care for your new floor).
Why do we use water-based polyurethanes?
Oil-based finishes are hazardous to your health because of their high VOC content. VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds which are harmful gasses that negatively impact humans and the environment. Oil-based finishes take up to 24 hours to dry. Water-based polyurethanes are safe to use, VOC compliant, nonflammable, fast drying, and virtually odorless. The best water finishes score better than oil finishes when testing for durability. We have extensive experience applying both water and oil finishes but choose water for its safety and added endurance.
Does the floor molding (like quarter-round or baseboard) have to be removed before sanding or installing a floor?
We always recommend removing the trim before either sanding or installing. It does not need removed if the floor is only going to be sanded. It does have to be removed before installing a new floor unless new trim is being put down.
In what phase of renovating a house should my floors be sanded? And what about when installing a kitchen?
Refinishing a floor is one of the last jobs a homeowner wants to do when remodeling. If you are painting, we recommend priming before we begin. After the floors are done, the remaining coats of paint can be applied. When installing a kitchen floor, they should be installed before the cabinets, counters, and appliances.
Note: Other projects occurring while the polyurethane is drying can create fine dust and make the floor's final finish coat rough and grainy. Other construction on the house can cause drywall dust, debris, flash drying from incorrect drying temperature, or excessive wind while the urethane is drying. The simple act of opening a door in the middle of winter can lead to a disastrous coating result.
Can pet and water stains be sanded out?
Our answer? If it will come out, we will get it out. These types of stains decay the wood fibers. Sometimes we can stain the floor darker to hide pet or water stains. However, if they are too dark, these stains will still be visible through the new finish, just less noticeable.
Will the new wood used to make repairs match my existing floor?
Not exactly. We take pride in our craftsmanship when installing a repair, but factors such as the age, light, moisture exposure, and the cut of the wood affect the coloring. Throughout the years, we have acquired various reclaimed flooring, which may help us when patching your floor. Our goal when patching an area is to make it not look like a patch. Simple as that.
How long will the finish on my floors last?
Our finishes should last a lifetime with very little upkeep depending on the usage and care. Proper maintenance includes keeping the floors free of dirt and periodical re-coatings. Once high traffic areas begin to show signs of wear, they should be screened and re-coated to prevent sanding and refinishing. If a color change is desired, a full refinish will be necessarily.
Why don't you do recoats?
If there are any chemicals on the existing floor that a "orange peel" effect will take place. The "orange peel" effect is when the finish peels. We do not do recoats for this reason.
What is the difference between LVT and LVP?
LVT (Luxury vinyl Tiles) are made to mimic tiles, such as ceramic.
LVP (Luxury Vinyl Planks) are made to look like planks, such as strips of wood.
They have minimal expansion and contraction, making them ideal for below grade or concrete sub-floor installations. They are also popular in kitchens and bathrooms because they require very little maintenance and will not swell when wet.
What is an engineered floor, and how is it different from a laminated floor?
Engineered wood floors are produced by gluing multiple thin ply layers. A thicker hardwood veneer wear-layer is glued on top.
Engineered wood flooring should not be confused with laminate wood flooring. The main difference between engineered flooring and laminate flooring is that laminate does not have an actual wood layer.
Engineered floors are slightly more resistant to higher moisture levels than solid wood flooring, which adds to their appeal to use in basements (where solid hardwood is not rated). Engineered flooring can be installed on any grade level. One benefit of newer engineered flooring that one of our local suppliers produces can be fully refinished several times. It has the same wear thickness as a normal, solid piece of hardwood.
What is a bamboo floor?
It is not a tree, but a grass. When bamboo is harvested, the root system is left intact, and a new shoot will grow from the same system. New bamboo plant will reach maturity (about 80 feet) in just five to six years. We do not refinish bamboo, as some glues used in the manufacturing can be toxic.
Are references available?
Sure. They are available upon request. We are proud to say we have many happy and satisfied clients.
How do we reach Haven Hardwoods, Inc.?
Our phone number: 724-384-8212.
Our business mailing address is: 2512 Orchard Street Beaver Falls, PA 15010.
Prefer email? General questions can be sent to: questions@havenhardwoods.com.
Or contact Andrew directly at: andrew@havenhardwoods.com.
