Sand and Finish


How long does the sand and finish process take?

The timeline depends on the size of the space and the condition of the existing floor. On average, the sanding and finishing process takes 4 to 6 days, including drying time. However, factors like humidity, the number of finish coats, and floor repairs can affect the duration.


What type of finish do you use?

At VELO Floors, we primarily use Bona finishes, known for their durability, low VOC content, and quick drying time. Bona products provide excellent protection while enhancing the natural beauty of your hardwood floors.


Do I need to leave my home during the process?

Yes, we highly recommend that homeowners vacate the house during sanding and finishing. The process involves dust, noise, and strong fumes from the finish, which can be disruptive.

At VELO Floors, we use advanced sanding machines that are nearly dustless, significantly reducing airborne dust. However, while our system captures most of the dust, some fine particles may still settle in the area. Even though Bona finishes are low in VOCs and cure faster than traditional finishes, staying out of the home ensures a safer, cleaner, and smoother refinishing process.


How long before I can walk on my floors after finishing?

With Bona finishes, you can typically walk on the floors with socks after 24 hours, but furniture should not be moved back for at least 72 hours. Rugs should remain off the floor for 7 to 14 days to allow the finish to fully cure.


How dusty is the sanding process?

We use advanced dust containment systems to minimize dust, but some fine particles may still be present. We recommend covering nearby furniture and vent openings and performing a light cleaning once the process is complete.


How do I care for my newly finished hardwood floors?

Avoid heavy traffic for the first few days.

Use Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner for routine maintenance.

Place protective pads under furniture to prevent scratches.

Keep humidity levels stable (between 35-55%) to prevent wood expansion or shrinkage.


Will sanding remove deep scratches and stains?

Yes, sanding typically removes most scratches, stains, and surface damage. However, deep gouges or pet stains may penetrate beyond the top layer of wood, requiring additional repair work or board replacement.


Can I change the color of my hardwood floors during refinishing?

Yes! Staining your hardwood floors allows you to customize their color, but the process differs based on the wood species:

  • Oak (Red & White): One of the easiest woods to stain evenly, providing a wide range of stain options.
  • Maple & Birch: Naturally dense with tight grain patterns, making stain absorption more challenging. Requires careful prep to ensure even coloring.
  • Pine & Fir: Softer woods that absorb stain unevenly, often requiring a wood conditioner before staining for a more uniform look.
  • Exotic Hardwoods (Brazilian Cherry, Mahogany, Walnut): Naturally rich in oils, which can interfere with stain penetration. Special techniques or alternative finishing methods may be needed.

If you want a specific stain color, we recommend testing it on your wood type beforehand to ensure the desired result.


How often should I refinish my hardwood floors?

Hardwood floors typically need refinishing every 7 to 10 years, depending on wear and maintenance. High-traffic areas may require touch-ups or recoating sooner.


Will the new finish have a strong odor?

Bona finishes have low VOCs and minimal odor compared to traditional oil-based finishes. However, a slight scent may still be present during application and curing, which is another reason we recommend homeowners leave the house during the process.

At VELO Floors, we specialize in custom hardwood refinishing with Bona finishes to enhance and protect your floors. Have more questions? Contact us for expert advice!


How Dustless Is the Sanding Process?

At VELO Floors, we use high-performance dust containment systems that capture the majority of dust during sanding. While no sanding process is 100% dust-free, our advanced machines significantly minimize airborne particles, reducing cleanup and improving air quality. Some fine dust may still settle, but our system ensures a much cleaner and healthier refinishing experience compared to traditional sanding methods.


Will There Be Dust Left After the Sanding Process?

While our advanced sanding machines significantly reduce dust, no system is completely dust-free. Some micro-dust particles may settle on surfaces even after the refinishing process is complete.

We recommend a light cleaning after the work is done, such as dusting and vacuuming, to remove any residual dust. In some cases, micro-dust may continue to settle for a few days, especially in areas with airflow. Regular light cleaning during this period will help maintain a spotless finish.


Do I Need to Move My Furniture Before Sanding and Finishing?

Yes, all furniture must be removed from the area before the sanding and finishing process begins. While VELO Floors does offer furniture moving services, we highly recommend hiring a professional moving company or using a moving pod outside your home for temporary storage. This ensures that your furniture is safely handled and avoids potential delays in the refinishing process.

Additionally, we advise homeowners to remove valuable paintings, wall art, and fragile items from the space, as vibrations and fine dust particles from sanding could affect them. Proper preparation helps protect your belongings and ensures a smoother refinishing experience.