Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about floor sanding in Newcastle and the Hunter.
Before the job
Quoting, timing, what to expect on site.
How long does floor sanding take?
A standard 3-bedroom Newcastle home usually takes 2 to 4 days, including sanding, coating and drying time. A lounge and hallway can often be done in a single day with water-based Bona finishes. Russell gives you a clear timeline at the quote stage so there are no surprises.
How much does floor sanding cost in Newcastle?
Pricing depends on floor size, condition and finish. Bare timber sanding plus a 3-coat Bona finish generally starts around $35 to $45 per square metre. Older floors needing repair work, gap filling or staining add to that. Russell provides free in-person quotes, no obligation.
Do I need to leave the house?
Not necessarily. During sanding most people just stay out of the work area. During coating, good ventilation helps, but Bona water-based finishes are low odour and most people can stay in other rooms or return the same evening.
Do I need to move my furniture?
Yes, the floor needs to be completely clear before work starts. Russell will confirm exactly what needs to come out at the quote. Moving furniture is the homeowner's responsibility, but Russell can usually point you to a removalist or storage option if you need one.
How long before I can walk on the floor?
With Bona water-based finishes you can usually walk in socks 2 to 3 hours after each coat. Wait 24 hours before moving furniture back. Full cure takes 5 to 7 days, so go easy on it for the first week.
What's the difference between water-based and solvent-based finishes?
Bona water-based finishes (Bona Mega, Bona Traffic HD) cure faster, have minimal odour and stay clear over time. Solvent-based finishes are slightly harder wearing but yellow with age and have stronger fumes during application. Russell uses water-based on most jobs because they look better long term and are easier to live with.
What timber species do you sand?
All species common to Newcastle and Hunter Valley homes, Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Jarrah, Tallowwood, Brushbox, Ironbark, Tasmanian Oak, Cypress Pine and parquet. Imported and engineered timbers too. If you're unsure of your species, Russell can identify it on site.
What finish options are available?
Bona water-based polyurethane, Bona Traffic HD commercial-grade hardener finish and hardwax oils, all in matt, satin, semi-gloss and gloss. Russell will help you choose the right finish for your timber and the way you live.
Do you do staining?
Yes. Bona stain colours from very light right through to dark walnut tones, with custom colour matching. Sample patches go down on your actual boards before any commitment, no guesswork.
Do you do gap filling?
Yes, colour-matched flexible Bona filler applied before the sand for a seamless result. It makes a huge difference to how the floor looks finished, and it's particularly important for older Newcastle homes where boards have moved over the decades.
Can old, damaged or scratched floors be saved?
Usually yes. Deep scratches, stains and dents can often be sanded back completely. Russell has restored 80+ year old Newcastle hardwood floors back to like-new condition. He'll assess at the quote and tell you honestly what's achievable.
Can you sand parquet floors?
Yes. Parquet needs care because the grain runs in multiple directions, so don't let an inexperienced operator near it. Russell has 20 years of practice on parquet across Newcastle.
Can cupped or warped boards be fixed?
Mild cupping from moisture variation can often be sanded flat. Severe cupping usually means the moisture source needs to be addressed first or the floor needs new boards. Russell will assess this on site as part of the quote.
Do you remove carpet?
Yes, full carpet and underlay removal including all staples and tack strips, leaving a clean surface ready for sanding.
How dusty is it?
Russell uses HEPA-filter dust extraction equipment that captures most of the dust at the sander. Some fine dust is unavoidable, but the impact is minimal compared to traditional sanding. Cover or remove anything in adjacent rooms as a precaution.
Do you do commercial work?
Yes, shops, offices, schools, function venues. Russell works around business hours where needed. Bona Traffic HD is the standard finish for commercial jobs because it stands up to heavy foot traffic.
Do you use subcontractors?
No. Russell does every job himself, start to finish. He answers the phone, does the quote, does the work. No handoffs, no surprises, no apprentices learning on your floors.
What areas do you cover?
Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley, including Merewether, Hamilton, Charlestown, Glendale, Kotara, Warners Bay, Toronto, Belmont, Morisset, Raymond Terrace, Nelson Bay, Maitland, Cessnock, Singleton and all surrounding suburbs.
How do I get a quote?
Call Russell directly on 0421 372 851 or use the contact form. Free quote, no obligation, usually arranged within a few days.
After the job: care & maintenance
How to keep your new floors looking fresh for years.
How do I clean my newly sanded floors?
Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment. For mopping, use a damp (not wet) microfibre mop. Avoid steam mops, the heat and moisture will damage the finish.
What cleaning products should I use?
A pH-neutral timber floor cleaner only. Bona Floor Cleaner is what Russell recommends because it's matched to the finish on your floor. Avoid vinegar, bleach, ammonia-based cleaners and anything abrasive. If in doubt, plain water with a well-wrung mop is safest.
When can I put rugs down?
Wait at least 2 weeks after the final coat, ideally 4 weeks. The finish needs time to fully cure. Use rugs with breathable backing only, rubber-backed rugs can trap moisture and discolour the finish underneath.
How do I prevent scratches?
Felt pads under all furniture legs, replace them every 6 months. No dragging furniture across the floor. Keep pet nails trimmed. A doormat at every entrance catches grit before it hits the timber.
What about high heels?
Stilettos and damaged heels concentrate massive pressure on a tiny point, they will dent timber. Keep a shoes-off policy or use flat-soled indoor shoes for the long-term health of your floors.
How do I handle spills?
Wipe up immediately with a dry or damp cloth. Standing water is the enemy of timber floors, even small puddles left overnight can cause white marks or swelling.
Do timber floors fade in sunlight?
Yes, UV exposure changes timber colour over time. Some species darken, others lighten. Use curtains or blinds during peak sun hours, and rotate rugs periodically so the floor ages evenly.
How often do floors need re-coating?
Depends on traffic and lifestyle. A well-maintained residential floor typically needs a maintenance recoat every 7 to 10 years. High-traffic areas, busy households or homes with dogs may need it sooner.
What's the difference between a recoat and a full sand?
A recoat is a light scuff and a fresh topcoat, quick, affordable, extends the life of your existing finish. A full sand strips everything back to bare timber. Most floors only need a full sand every 15 to 20 years if they're looked after properly.
My floor has a scratch, can I fix it myself?
Minor surface scratches in the finish can sometimes be buffed out. Deep scratches into the timber need professional attention. Don't use DIY wood markers or wax sticks, they often make it worse and complicate any future recoat.