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Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes when hiring someone to sand and refinish their wood floors. From not understanding which products to use to hiring an unqualified contractor, these mistakes can cost thousands of dollars. By making informed choices, you can avoid these costly errors and ensure the best results for your wood flooring project. Here are ten common mistakes to avoid. For all of your hardwood flooring needs contact, Walk on Wood Professional Flooring, located in Rochester Minnesota, they are your hardwood flooring experts.

1. Not Hiring a Professional
There’s a saying: “Jack of all trades, master of none.” When investing thousands of dollars into your home, it’s essential to hire a professional hardwood flooring craftsman. Look for telltale signs of professionalism—company logo on shirts, business cards, a well-maintained website, a social media presence, and clean, organized technicians.

2. Hiring an Unlicensed, Unbonded, and Uninsured Contractor
This is one of the easiest mistakes to avoid. Before hiring, check if the contractor is licensed and insured.

3. Failing to Hire an Expert
Experience alone doesn’t make someone an expert. Inquire about their training, certifications, and involvement in the industry.

4. Not Properly Vetting the Contractor
Use online reviews and social media to research the contractor. Check platforms like Home Advisor or Houzz for reviews. Ask for recommendations on community pages or look for feedback from previous clients. If you find little to no information about a contractor, you may want to reconsider hiring them.

5. Not Knowing Who Will Be Working in Your Home
Make sure you know who will be doing the work. Some companies may send unqualified subcontractors after the initial sale. Ensure you trust everyone who will be in your home and verify the company’s hiring policies.

6. Failing to Plan Ahead
Reputable companies are often booked out a month or more in advance. Don’t rush the process or settle for a lesser company because you didn’t plan ahead. Also, be prepared to stay out of your home while finishes dry, as most require you to vacate the premises during this time.

7. Not Allowing Enough Time for the Entire Process
Installing and refinishing hardwood floors is a time-consuming process. If new floors are being installed, the wood needs time to acclimate to your home’s environment, which could take days or even months. After the finish is applied, it’s important to respect the cure times to avoid damage.

8. Not Knowing What Equipment and Products Will Be Used
Ensure the contractor is using the right equipment for sanding hardwood floors. If they show up with a handheld belt sander, it’s a red flag. Proper sanding machines, are designed for hardwood floors and provide the best results.

9. Not Understanding the Finish Options
Different finishes serve different purposes. An experienced Harwood flooring contractor will know their finishes. Each finish have their own pros and cons. A true professional will explain these options and help you choose the best finish for your needs.

10. Overlooking the Importance of Dust Containment
Sanding floors can create a dust storm in your home. A professional-grade dust containment system is crucial for keeping your home clean during the process.

To avoid these common mistakes contact Walk on Wood Professional Flooring located in Rochester Minnesota. They are your hardwood flooring experts.