Furniture and belongings
Ask whether furniture moving is included. Either way, empty closets with floor-level storage and remove rugs, floor lamps and small items.
- Empty rooms being finished
- Remove items from closet floors
- Take down floor-length curtains
- Protect electronics in adjoining rooms from fine dust
People, pets and access
Plan a route in and out of the house that does not cross wet finish. Some households stay elsewhere during finishing, especially with pets or when a solvent-based finish is used. Ask the contractor about ventilation and odor for the specific product.
Return-to-use timing
There is no single answer. Light foot traffic, furniture and rugs each have separate waiting periods set by the finish manufacturer, and temperature and humidity change them. Get the timing from the contractor for the product they plan to use.
Older homes
If your home was built before 1978 and the work could disturb painted surfaces such as baseboards or painted floors, ask the contractor how they follow lead-safe work practices.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay home during refinishing?
Many people do, if rooms can be closed off and a dry path is available. It depends on the layout, the finish product and household needs.