Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Dust-controlled sanding. Custom stains. Durable topcoats.
Restore the look. Extend the life.
At Costello Carpentry, we refinish hardwood floors that have seen real life—scratches, wear paths, sun fade, and spills—and bring them back to a clean, even, durable finish. Our process balances craftsmanship and efficiency: protect the home, sand correctly, repair what matters, and apply finishes that look great and hold up.
We start with protection—furniture moves, masking, and dust control. Then we sand with the right grits in the right order, flattening cupped boards and removing old finish without over-thinning your floor. Gaps, cracks, and nail holes are filled to blend; loose boards are secured; and problem areas are spot-patched as needed.
Stains and topcoats are matched to your style and use. From natural clear to deep modern tones, we test samples on your floor so you see it in your light. For durability, we offer commercial-grade waterborne polyurethane, traditional oil finishes, and hardwax options. Expect smooth, even color, tight edges, and a protective surface that stands up to Chicago living.
Why Choose Costello Carpentry?
Clean, seamless installations with expert-level precision
Experienced in all major flooring types and materials
Honest recommendations and upfront pricing
We respect your space and leave it spotless
Our Hardwood Floor Refinishing Services Include:
Dust‑Controlled Sanding & Surface Prep
Clean, thorough sanding that levels the field and removes old finish without gouges or waves.
We cover:
- Full-system dust control with containment and HEPA filtration
- Progressive grit sanding for flat, even boards and edges
- Edge, corner, and stair sanding to match main field
- Crack and nail-hole filling color-matched to your species
Repairs & Board Replacements
Fix damage before finishing so your new surface looks consistent and lasts.
We handle:
- Loose or squeaky boards secured and fastened
- Pet, water, or sun damage spot repairs and weave-ins
- Thresholds, transitions, and trims reset or replaced
- Subfloor checks and minor leveling under problem areas
Stains, Colors & Finishes
Choose the tone and sheen that fits your home with finish systems sized to your lifestyle.
Options include:
- Sample testing on your floor—natural, classic, and modern palettes
- Waterborne polyurethane for fast cure and low odor
- Oil-based poly for rich warmth and high durability
- Hardwax oils for repairable, matte-natural looks
Protection, Cure & Maintenance
We protect the home during the job and set you up for long-term success after we leave.
Our process:
- Furniture moves and masking with careful protection
- Cure timelines and light-use guidance by finish type
- Felt pads and runner plans to prevent early wear
- Maintenance schedule so the finish keeps performing
Free Consultations & Estimates
Ready to revive your hardwood floors? Share room sizes and a few photos, or book a quick site visit. We’ll confirm scope, finish options, and a schedule that works for your home.
Let’s plan your hardwood floor refinishing.
Your Trusted flooring installation Contractor in Chicago
As a trusted hardwood floor refinishing contractor in Chicago, we bring worn floors back to life with dust control, precise sanding, and durable finish systems.
From single rooms to whole-home projects, our team delivers clean work, clear timelines, and a finish you’ll love.
Ready to get started? Contact us to schedule your free refinishing consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hardwood floor refinishing take?
Most single rooms finish in two to three days for sanding and coatings, plus cure time. Larger homes or repairs can add a day.
What does your hardwood floor refinishing process include?
We protect the home, run dust containment, sand with progressive grits, secure loose boards, fill gaps and nail holes, then apply stain and topcoats matched to your goals.
How dusty is hardwood floor refinishing?
We use containment and HEPA extraction to keep dust low. Work areas are masked and we tidy at the end of each day.
Will there be odors from finishes?
Waterborne finishes have low odor and fast cure. Oil-based products have more odor and need longer cure. We review pros and cons before we start.
Can you repair damage before refinishing?
Yes. We secure squeaks, patch pet or water spots, and weave in new boards so the final surface looks consistent.
Can engineered floors be refinished?
Often yes if the wear layer is thick enough. We measure and confirm viability before scheduling hardwood floor refinishing.
How do we choose stain color and sheen?
We test samples on your floor in your light so you can compare natural, classic, and modern tones in matte, satin, or semi-gloss.
Waterborne vs oil finishes for hardwood floor refinishing?
Waterborne cures faster with lower odor and a natural look. Oil adds warm tone and high durability with a longer cure. Both are proven systems.
When can we walk on the floor and move furniture back?
Light sock traffic is usually allowed the next day for waterborne systems. Furniture returns after the specified cure window. Rugs wait longer per product data.
Do you refinish stairs and edges to match?
Yes. We sand treads, risers, and edges to match the field and apply the same stain and topcoat system.
How much wood is removed during sanding?
Only what is needed to flatten and remove old finish. We preserve material for future hardwood floor refinishing cycles.
How should we prepare the space?
Clear small items and electronics. We can move and reset most furniture. Keep pets and people out of work zones during sanding and coating.
How do we maintain the new finish?
Use felt pads, runners in high traffic paths, and manufacturer approved cleaners. Avoid steam mops and abrasive pads.
What warranty do you provide?
Workmanship is covered for one year. Manufacturer warranties for finishes remain in place. We document products and dates for future reference.