Prepare the room before the floor work begins

A refinishing project affects more than the surface underfoot. Knowing how the room will be used during and after the work makes planning easier.

Agree on who moves what

Ask about furniture, rugs, appliances, and items in adjoining areas. Confirm what the proposed work includes rather than assuming moving or storage is included.

Discuss access and other work

Explain how people move through the home and whether the affected rooms are the only route to another space. Coordinate other trades so freshly finished flooring is not exposed to avoidable traffic or damage.

Plan for children and pets

Ask how to keep people and animals away from the work area. Discuss ventilation and occupancy requirements for the actual finishing products rather than relying on general claims about odor or safety.

Ask about dust management

Understand the contractor's equipment, containment, and cleanup plan. A marketing term such as dustless should not be interpreted as a promise that no dust will be produced.

Get return-to-use instructions

Drying and full curing are not necessarily the same. Ask when walking, furniture placement, rugs, and cleaning are appropriate for the finish used. Do not substitute a universal number of hours for product-specific advice.

Keep the instructions

Save the agreed care guidance and product information for future maintenance. Read about refinishing or discuss your floor with Mario.