Some estimates are itemized and some are a comprehensive paragraph of the scope of work with a total. Just remember that estimates are just that - estimates. All things that are promised should be included in the final contract to you.

Cost of job

This will vary depending on the expertise of the contractor, quality of work, products used and the job that will be done. Research your needs first and educate yourself on the products and then get quotes from a couple contractors that use those products.

Expectations

Warranties and guarantees should always be included on the final contract. All questions regarding what to expect should be discussed in detail between the customer and contractor to avoid discrepancies.

Product information

Ask your contractor for a portfolio of information, specification sheets or brochures on the products that you will have applied on your floor. Again, it is very important to be educated on the products used on your investment. You can find all of Bona's spec information on our professional website.

Chemical sensitivities?

If someone in the home has chemical sensitivities, ask your contractor for a copy of the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for all the products being used on the floors. Your physician can then advise accordingly. You can find Bona MSDS for all of our products on our professional website.

Is there enough wood on the surface?

This is determined by the contractor assessing if there are areas to look at to determine the wear layer. This can be measured by looking at vents or transitional points to other flooring in the home.

What to expect during

Work hours/expected length of time in the home

This should be discussed in the "Expectations" portion of the bid. Make sure you feel educated about the process of sanding and finishing your floors and the products that will be used. Feel comfortable and confident about the investment you are making.

How many coats will be applied?

The standard for a hardwood floor is at least three coats. This consists of one seal coat (which may be the stain) and two coats of finish. Additional costs of finish may be applied depending on the need.

Potential delays

If you are unable to determine what products are currently on your floors, it could lengthen the sanding process. We continually stress the importance of being educated on the life of your floors. Also, temperature and relative humidity can play a role in the dry times of the product.

Issues for pets?

The Bona System is suitable for homes with pets. However, it is a good idea to keep pets off the floors during the sand and finish process, until the finish is fully cured, so there is no contamination, dirt or hair in the polyurethane coating of your floor.

Do I need to vacate my home?

Using Bona Systems, consisting of waterborne finishes and dust containment sanding, you may not need to vacate your home during the process. These finishes are waterborne, low-VOC and fast drying. You can be back on your floors in no time, following the recommended drying and curing times.

What to expect after

When can I walk across the floors again?

A floor finish will be more susceptible to scuffing and scratching until it is fully cured. Your floor can be walked on with stocking feet in 3-4 hours and furniture can be placed back on the floor (not dragged) in 48 hours. Area rugs can be put down in one week when the finish is fully cured.

How much clean-up will be needed?

Clean-up is extremely minimal with the Bona Systems. Since the sanding is dust-free, virtually all the airborne dust generated during the process is eliminated, so there is no wasted time spent hanging and taking down plastic in the home. In addition, everything must be picked up and cleaned before the finishing portion, so you are not left with any mess in your home.

What kind of maintenance is required after the process?

This depends on the amount of traffic you have in your home. If you have children and pets, you will want to clean more regularly to protect against scratches from dirt and debris. We recommend dusting your floors with a dust mop daily or every other day. Regularly clean floors with one of our Bona Cleaners that are specifically formulated for wood floors. The Bona Premium Hardwood Floor Mop is an easy and effective tool to start with!