Refinishing hardwood floors can be expensive, but there are a number of ways to keep the costs down. Consider the duration of the project, the type of hardwoods you can use, and safety concerns. Here are some tips for getting started on your project. Keep reading for more details. If you have questions, contact a contractor and request an estimate. They can also offer advice. You can read on to learn more about the important project.
Cost of refinishing hardwood floors
The cost of refinishing hardwood floors depends on the size of the house and the scope. Refinishing large areas of hardwood floors can be much more costly than refinishing small ones. The refinishing process also requires the use of drum sanders, sanding belts, vacuums, plastic sheeting, and stain. A lower or higher level of stain may be required depending on the size and shape of the area. The materials cost will usually be included in the initial quote.
Refinishing hardwood floors is a great way to update your home's appearance and save money. It involves sanding the floors, applying color treatments and sealing with a topcoat. Refinishing hardwood floors will cost you significantly less than installing them new. Refinishing hardwood floors is a process that involves sanding the surface of the floor to remove imperfections, and then reapplying the top coat finish. You can almost have brand-new flooring.
The duration of the project
Refinishing hardwood floors can be done in many different colors and finishes. Water or oil-based polyurethanes are the most common finishes for hardwood floors. It takes skill and attention to detail when refinishing hardwood floors. After filling cracks and covering bare areas with wood filler, two to three coats are applied. It is up to you to decide whether to use a stain or a water-based product.
The wood type and stain used can affect the time it takes to finish a hardwood floor. Also, consider whether the wood was treated with moisture. Moisture damage can make sanding more difficult. This can cause sanding to take longer. To flatten wood, sanding must not be done following the grain but at 45 degrees. To complete the project, you should have a large team.
Prefinished vs. unfinished hardwoods
Prefinished and unfinished hardwood floors are vastly different. The most important difference is the finish. Factory applied finishes are more durable and beautiful than unfinished hardwood and lasts longer. Prefinished hardwood has more layers of protective coating than unfinished. Some prefinished floors even come with scratch-resist guards and ScotchGuard to protect your floors. Prefinished hardwood comes in a variety of colors and textures, with a wide range of durability levels.
Prefinished hardwood may be more expensive that unfinished wood, however it can easily match your existing flooring. Unfinished hardwood has more customization options. You can stain it and make it your own color. Apply stain and/or urethane to unfinished wood for a uniform look. To apply the finish, however, you will need to invest in tools like rollers and brushes.
Safety concerns of refinishing hardwood floors
Refinishing hardwood floors can be a tedious and messy process. It is also quite dangerous. It begins with the removal of old flooring. You should hire a professional to safely remove old vinyl flooring. New hardwood floors often come with projecting nails and carpet taps. You should wear thick-soled boots and gloves if your plan is to refinish the floors yourself.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can also be present in hardwood floors that are being refinished. VOCs can cause health problems if inhaled or contact the skin. Use a varnish specifically made for this application. It is possible to keep your home and belongings safe with a varnish made for refinishing. Toxic compounds, which are highly flammable or explosive, can make refinishing floors dangerous.
FAQ
Where do handymen come?
There are thousands of handymen across the U.S., but almost none of them started out as a contractor. Most started as a tradesman, typically learning how to do things through apprenticeships. These individuals are highly skilled and possess a wealth knowledge which can make them valuable assets to any business.
How do I find a trusted handyman?
Before hiring a handyman, you should always verify references. Ask family and friends who have worked with him or her before. Look online as there are many review sites that allow handymen to post their own reviews.
How long does it take for a handyman to be trained?
It takes many years of hard work to become an expert handyman. It starts by helping close friends and family. Then it becomes a full time job.
As you work, you will begin to acquire all the skills required.
Is it worth spending extra money on professional handyman service?
It depends entirely on the project. A professional handyman service will be helpful if you have a complicated project such as an office remodel.
Statistics
- Another estimate was that the market in the United States was $126 billion and was increasing by about 4% annually. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A franchise was approximately $110,000 with a franchise fee of $14,900, according to a spokesperson for a national handyman franchise. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Mila keeps a commission of 20% for each completed service performed by Friends and charges various service fees regarding work done by Pros. (appjobs.com)
- Our handyman services for seniors are provided by professional senior helpers who have been serving the community for over 20 years with 98% customer satisfaction. (cantatahomeservices.org)
- An estimate was that in 2003, the market for home maintenance and repair spending was up 14% 2001 to 2003. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
How To
How to Install a Receptacle Box
Always follow local guidelines when installing an electrical outlet. This includes ensuring the correct installation and that there is no water damage or fire hazard.
The majority of boxes come prewired, with four wires coming out of the breaker panel. The two black wires run through a box to the first screws on one side. While the red and the white wires run to the second screws on the opposite side. When connecting these wires together, it is crucial to ensure that wire nuts are not used and that wire wraps around screws is avoided. This will make it difficult to get the wires in place once they have been tightened. You want them to be free enough to move around but still tight enough not to pull from their holes.
Another piece of hardware may be needed if you are adding a receptacle for an already existing box. You'll need to take off the top of your existing metal box, and then add a cover plate. After you have made the hole for your new receptacle, and attached the coverplate, you will need to connect all wires to your new receptacle.
A modern light switch can replace the existing receptacles within your home. This task may be possible without the assistance of a licensed electrician. First, remove the switch from its mount. Next, you will need to take the time to unplug all wires that are connected to the switch. These wires can be used to power the switch or supply electricity to the light fixtures in the room. Once you have disconnected all of it, you can begin the replacement process.
After you remove the old switch, measure how far the wall studs are from your new switch and mark them using a permanent marker. Once you have done this, you will also need to determine if the new switch needs to be mounted high above or below the floor. You will need to drill holes for the mounting bracket depending on how high the switch is to be mounted. Or you can attach it directly to the wall with drywall anchors.
After you have taken measurements and marked the locations, you can begin the project. You will need to remove the drywall from the area where the switch will go. For cable safety, make sure you leave 8 inches between each of the studs. The next step is to mount the switch using the appropriate mounting brackets. Next, attach the cables and secure the switch onto the mounting brackets. Once the switch is fully installed, you'll need to turn back the power and test it for proper operation.