FAQ for remodeling

How do I initiate my project?

To get started, give us a call to schedule your free estimate. During this estimate, one of our specialists will visit your home to measure and inspect the flooring you’d like to remodel. Your specialist will also bring sample boards so you can start exploring replacement options. However, you’re also welcome to set up an appointment at our showroom and view the full range of flooring that we offer. Once you make your wood selection, we’ll draft up a full proposal. During this time, we’ll answer any and every question you have about the project. After we’ve hammered out all the details, you’ll send us a signed contract along with your material deposit. We’ll order all the required materials and add your project date to our schedule.

How soon should I schedule my flooring project?

We typically advise that you schedule your project at least 2-4 weeks in advance. However, the size and scope of your project as well as our existing workload also factor into the timeline. For best results, check our availability before solidifying any plans.

Will I need to move out of my home during the installation?

You’ll only need to find other accommodations if the scope of the project covers most of your living space. However, if it’s confined to a single room or small area, you can stay in your home with some restrictions. It’s important to note that solid hardwood installation is noisy. So, if you run a business out of your home, you should make alternate plans. Additionally, you won’t have access to the flooring once we start the staining process, and the smell of the polyurethane we use for sealing has a strong odor.

How much dust is produced during the installation and sanding stage?

At Oakline Floors, we do our best to contain the dust created from the installation and sanding process. However, there’s still dust that can spread throughout your home. To minimize this effect, we’ll set up our equipment and tools outside of your home (provided weather permits) and mask off your furnishings and cabinets. At the end of the workday, we’ll clean up and move our equipment out of the way. However, we highly recommend hiring a professional cleaning crew once the remodel is finished.

What do I need to get started?

We’ll need your help with acclimation. This is the time in which your new wood flooring adjusts to the conditions of your home; it prevents excessive movement and gaps during different seasons. We’ll deliver your materials 1 week prior to the start of your project (though this time could vary depending on the type of wood you’ve chosen and the weather conditions in your location). We’ll need a 10’ x 10’ area inside of your home to store the wood and another 10’ x 10’ area inside of your garage or home to store the subfloor. Ensure you’ve prepared this area prior to our arrival.

At the start of the project, we’ll need you to clear any personal items and furniture from the work area. If you need assistance moving the furniture, we offer this service for a fee. However, all electronics, devices, and personal items must be removed from the furniture prior to our arrival. You’ll also need to prep the workspace. This prep varies based on the room in which your remodel is taking place. Clear any countertops completely, remove toilets, draw blinds, remove window treatments, and ensure there’s plenty of working light. If you’re unsure of what steps you should take, our specialists can help you establish a plan.

Should I remove appliances if the project takes place in my kitchen?

If the floors in your kitchen are being remodeled, you’ll likely need to remove the refrigerator and dishwasher before the crew arrives to begin work. As with moving furniture, we can remove these appliances for you for a small fee. However, we’ll need advance notification. If our crew removes them for you, please ensure your refrigerator and dishwasher have been emptied beforehand. This reduces the risk of any spills and improves the mobility of the items. Once the project is complete, you’re responsible for reconnecting your refrigerator’s icemaker. It’s crucial that this connection is done properly and that you check it within an hour of reinstalling to guarantee a solid connection. An improper hookup could lead to leakage, which would damage your new flooring.

What happens to my current flooring?

You have two options when it comes to your previously installed flooring. You can handle the removal yourself, which saves you a little bit of money. Or our crew can remove it (including tile, carpet, or wood) and dispose of it.

What about my doors and baseboards?

Installation of a solid hardwood floor typically raises your floor about 1.5”. Concerning your baseboards, we can install a new base, remove and replace the old one, or install shoe mold or quarter round. Whichever option you prefer, our crew can handle it. However, you’ll be responsible for any caulking or painting. Regarding your doors, a raised floor could cause the doors to drag. We can undercut your interior doors but any exterior doors may need consultation from a proper door professional.

Is there any other prep needed for day 1 of my remodel?

It’s important to secure your pets during the project—either in an enclosed area in a separate part of your home or at another location. Prior to our crew’s arrival, please inform us about any valuables or cabinets you’d like covered. And, if no one will be onsite to let the crew inside, please make arrangements with our office to leave a key or lockbox for expedited entry.

How long will the remodel take?

The size and scope of your project will determine the length of the remodel. On average, most projects are completed within 2-7 days. However, when you contact us, we’ll provide a more specific estimate based on the details you provide and the observations from the consultation.

What finish is used for my new floors?

Once the installation is complete, you’ll meet with the finish crew to select your stain color. You’ll pick 2-3 options from our color chart, and the crew will apply these directly to your newly installed floor. This enables you to see how the stain colors work in conjunction with the natural light of your home as well as your other furnishings and wall colors. Once you’ve solidified your choice, we’ll sand away the samples and start staining the floor. You’ll typically receive 3 staining applications. For example, a 500 square foot room would receive 2 coats on the first day and a final coat on the last. The only exception to this rule is flat sanding—which will only require 2 coats

How soon can I walk on my new floors?

Wait at least 12 hours after your final coat before walking on the floors with stocking feet. After 24 hours, you can walk on the wood with shoes. Wait 48 hours before placing any furniture back in the room or allowing pets to run free over the flooring. And you’ll need to wait 1 or 2 weeks before placing rugs on the floor. We strongly advise avoiding use of water or cleaning products on your flooring for at least a week.

What happens once my project is finished?

Once your project is complete, you’ll need to make adjustments to avoid scratching and denting. Place felt pads under any of your furniture. Also, place rugs at all entrances into the space with new flooring, but be sure to avoid rubber backs as those cause discolorations. And try your best to avoid wearing high heels or cleats on the new flooring.

As time goes on, you might notice some variations in the appearance of your wood. This is completely normal. You can keep this variation to a minimum by limiting direct sunlight on the flooring and periodically moving rugs or furniture. Changes in seasonal humidity levels can cause the wood to contract, expand, and even crack. These changes will come and go and shouldn’t be stressed.

Lastly, you can keep your new wood flooring in great shape with proper maintenance. Keep your indoor humidity level in the range of 30-50%. Never use a wet mop or harsh cleaners like pine-sol, mop and glow, or bleach to clean your floors. Simply vacuum, dust mop, or sweep on a regular basis, and we recommend cleaning your floors with trusted products like Pallman Hardwood Floor Cleaner. Use it on a regular basis to maintain your finish and keep your floors looking new.