Wood Floor Refinishing Contractors in Houston, TX

Houston Wood Floor Refinishing

Home to more than two million people, the Houston metropolitan area is the fourth largest in the country. In addition to being a hub for the petroleum industry, "H-town," as many locals call it, also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, booming businesses, and fabulous shopping.

With its high humidity, Houston's homeowners need to pay careful attention to protecting and maintaining their wood floors. Periodic refinishing keeps floors looking like new at a fraction of the cost of installing a new hardwood floor. Homeowners thinking of repairing, refinishing, or replacing their wood floors should work closely with an experienced, knowledgeable professional to be sure the job gets done correctly. Ask for a detailed estimate for a clear picture of the size and scope of the budget, which can be affected by a variety of factors ranging from the square footage to the types of materials needed to complete the work.

Local Cost Information

Many factors go into determining the price of a wood flooring project. The extent of the work is one of the first factors to consider. Repairing damage or refinishing an existing floor are almost always more cost effective than replacing the floor completely.

If the floor sustained heavy water damage or structural damage, it may be wiser to replace the floor and install a new one entirely. Other important factors include the square footage of the area, whether or not there are steps involved, and the amount of preparation needed. The table below explains the local costs of two of Houston's common flooring projects in comparison to the national average.

As the above table demonstrates, homeowners in Houston pay above-average prices for common flooring projects. For more detailed pricing, homeowners should request an estimate from a reputable flooring company.

Repairing Wood Floors

Filling in gouges, replacing warped boards, and removing unsightly scratches are just a few of the common repair tasks necessary for maintaining a wood floor and preparing it for refinishing. Other common wood floor repairs that may be necessary to complete before sanding and coating include:

• Buffing scratches out with fine steel wool or lightweight sandpaper
• Stopping squeaks with screws or shims
• Filling cracks and gouges
• Replacing warped planks

Homeowners can DIY some of the smaller repairs or hire professionals to handle larger ones. Repairs might be necessary before refinishing the floor to create a smooth, seamless appearance, but these tasks add to the overall cost. Typical costs of repairing a wood floor in Houston range from $250 to $3,500.

Refinishing Wood Floors

Recoating adds an extra topcoat for additional protection and shine. Refinishing involves sanding the floor to remove the finish and expose the bare wood before applying the stain and topcoat necessary to achieve the desired look. Most Houston homeowners spend a total of $600 to $3,500 to refinish their wood floors.

Having a professional do the job takes the guesswork out of the equation. It's also increasingly more important when the floor in question is made from exotic wood, which can be more delicate.

Necessary Licensing and Qualifications

Neither the state of Texas nor the city of Houston requires flooring contractors and companies to have a license. For optimal consumer protection, look for a bonded and insured flooring contractor with current liability and worker's compensation insurance. Hiring a flooring company that isn't insured leaves the homeowner on the hook to cover the costs associated with any accidents or damage that occur during the course of the project. Bonding adds an extra layer of protection against unfinished or subpar workmanship.

Additionally, some flooring contractors opt for voluntary certification to demonstrate advanced knowledge, skills, and competence. Some of the professional organizations that issue this certification include the Certified Floorcovering Installers Association and the National Wood Flooring Installers Association.

Other Projects to Consider

A refinished floor imparts a fresh feel and a sense of newness to a room or home, but leaving behind the old baseboards can detract from the quality of the work that was done. One common task performed along with floor refinishing is baseboard replacement, which gives a truly finished look to the space. Houston residents can expect to pay between $189 and $462 on average for labor costs to prep a room, cut the wood, and install the new baseboards.

Popular Houston Neighborhoods and Suburbs

In Houston's relatively hot real estate market, its diverse combination of neighborhoods and suburbs really defines the city's charm. Each area has its own personality and amenities, making it easy for everyone from hip young professionals to retirees to find the right spot to hang their hats. Consider the following list of Houston's most popular neighborhoods and suburbs.

Downtown- Living downtown appeals to anyone who doesn't mind not having a house with a yard. As one of the fastest-growing urban-residential areas in the United States, Houston’s explosion of luxury condos and high-rise apartments provides spacious living quarters but not outdoor spaces. Downtown offers proximity to public transportation and access to some of the city's hottest shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

West University Place- West University Place, affectionately dubbed "West U" by the locals, provides small-town charm within the city. Located inside the loop, just 15 minutes from downtown, West U is beloved among professional families and upper-middle class singles. Modest mansions and upscale homes have replaced most of the original homes here. Residents enjoy easy access to the city's Museum District and Rice University, located just a few blocks away.

Montrose- This four-square-mile neighborhood nestled in the heart of Houston has a little something for everyone. Hip shops, delicious restaurants, and a thriving arts scene are just a few of the attractions that Montrose residents love. Home to everyone from hipsters and beatniks to retirees and young professionals, this diverse neighborhood offers a pedestrian-friendly layout and a tightly knit community.

Eastwood- More affordable than Montrose, but with convenient access to downtown, the Eastwood neighborhood provides an alternative to some of the higher-priced areas of the city. Home styles range from charming bungalows to Mission and Craftsman designs. In addition to the lovely selection of architectural styles, this neighborhood's claim to fame is its location. It takes just 15 minutes to drive anywhere most people want to go.