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When searching for "wood flooring contractors near me," you want a professional who understands the nuances of both solid wood and modern engineered hardwood. A skilled wood flooring contractor handles the entire flooring project, from critical subfloor preparation to the final coat of finish.
Whether you need a new wood floor installation or wood floor refinishing to restore worn and damaged floors, hiring the right expert ensures your investment lasts for decades. This guide covers costs, material differences, and how to vet wood flooring contractors for quality craftsmanship.
Services Offered by Wood Flooring Contractors
A top-tier wood flooring contractor is a specialist. Unlike a general handyman, they have deep expertise in flooring components and industry trends.
Wood Floor Installation
This includes installing hardwood floors, engineered wood, and often laminate flooring or vinyl plank. They handle complex tasks like staircase treads, wood floor vents, and custom patterns (like herringbone).
Refinishing and Repair
Wood floor refinishing involves sanding down old finish and applying new stain. They also perform hardwood floor repair to fix water damage or gaps.
Subfloor Preparation
A pro ensures the subfloor is flat and dry before installation. This prevents squeaks and failure. They may also use specialized self-leveling compounds or moisture barriers to guarantee the long-term integrity of your new floor.
Commercial Work
Many contractors handle commercial finishes for historic buildings or offices, using durable flooring products. These experts understand high-traffic demands and often provide flexible installation schedules to minimize downtime for your business.
2025 Cost Guide: Installation vs. Refinishing
The cost to install hardwood flooring varies by wood species, while the cost to refinish hardwood floors is generally much lower.
|
SERVICE |
AVERAGE COST (per sq. ft.) |
NOTES |
|
Refinishing Hardwood Floors |
$3.00 to $8.00 |
Includes sanding, staining, and sealing. Dustless systems cost more. |
|
Hardwood Floor Installation (Solid) |
$6.00 to $12.00+ |
Basic strip flooring. Wide planks or custom patterns cost more. |
|
Engineered Hardwood Installation |
$4.50 to $10.00 |
Slightly lower labor cost; excellent for basements. |
|
Laminate Flooring Installation |
$3.00 to $8.00 |
A budget-friendly alternative to real wood. |
Solid Wood vs. Engineered Hardwood: Which is Right for You?
Your wood flooring contractor will help you choose the best flooring type for your home's environment.
Solid Wood
This is traditional wood flooring made from a single piece of timber. It offers timeless spaces and can be refinished multiple times. However, it is sensitive to humidity and not recommended for basements.
Engineered Hardwood
This features a real wood veneer over a plywood core. It looks identical to solid wood but is more stable. The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) recommends engineered wood for areas with fluctuating moisture levels, such as basements or over concrete slabs.
Vetting a Wood Flooring Contractor Near Me
When interviewing wood flooring contractors, ask about their process for safety and cleanliness.
- Dust Containment System
Sanding creates massive amounts of fine dust. Top contractors use trailer-mounted vacuums to capture dust before it becomes airborne, protecting your home and HVAC system.
- Low VOC Products
Ask about the finish they use. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that traditional finishes release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect indoor air quality. Many pros now offer water-based, low-VOC finishes that dry faster and smell less.
- Credentials
Look for a contractor with verified credentials from a respected authority. Check if they participate in educational programs from the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) to stay current on installation crew techniques.
FAQs About Wood Flooring
Is refinishing hardwood floors dusty?
It can be, but it doesn't have to be. A contractor using a modern dust containment system can capture up to 99% of the dust. If they don't use this system, expect to find dust throughout your home.
Can engineered wood be refinished?
Yes, but typically only once or twice. It depends on the thickness of the top wear layer. A knowledgeable wood flooring contractor can measure this layer and tell you if wood floor refinishing is safe or if the floor needs replacement.
What is subfloor preparation?
It involves leveling and cleaning the subfloor before new flooring is laid. Skipping this step leads to squeaks and loose boards. A pro will check for moisture and flatness, ensuring a stable foundation for your flooring project.
Find Your Wood Flooring Expert Today
Whether you need a wood floor installation for a new home or hardwood floor repair for a historic property, the quality of the result depends entirely on the contractor you hire. Don't risk your investment on unverified labor.
Mr. Remodel connects you with our network of trusted, licensed, and reviewed professionals. Our process is simple: we match you with local experts for a free project evaluation.
Compare quotes at your own pace, with no pressure and no obligation.
Get your free, no-obligation wood flooring estimate now.