How Long Does Floor Refinishing Take? What to Expect During the Process
One of the most common questions we get from homeowners is: "How long will this take?" It's a fair question — floor refinishing means temporarily disrupting your home, and you want to plan accordingly. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect.
Day 1: Sanding
The first day is all about sanding. We remove the old finish and any surface damage, bringing the wood back to bare. With our dustless equipment, this process is clean and efficient. Depending on the size of the space, sanding typically takes one full day.
Day 2: Staining (If Applicable)
If you're changing the color of your floors, stain is applied after sanding and needs time to dry — usually 8 to 12 hours. This is the day to pick your shade if you haven't already. We'll show you samples and help you choose.
Day 3 and Beyond: Finish Coats
We apply multiple coats of finish, with drying time between each coat. Most projects require 2 to 3 coats. Each coat needs at least 4 to 6 hours to dry, and the final coat needs 24 hours before light foot traffic.
Total Timeline: 3 to 5 Days
For most standard residential projects, plan for 3 to 5 days from start to finish. Larger homes or more complex jobs may take a bit longer.
Tips for Preparing Your Home
Clear furniture from the rooms being refinished before we arrive
Make arrangements for pets during the process
Keep windows open if possible to help with ventilation and drying
Avoid walking on the floors with shoes during the finish coats
When Can You Move Furniture Back?
We recommend waiting at least 48 to 72 hours after the final coat before moving furniture back in. This gives the finish time to fully cure and prevents dents or scratches.
At Finesse Flooring, we walk you through every step before we start so there are no surprises. Our goal is a smooth process and a result you'll love for years to come.
