Your Checklist Before Floor Sanding Day
A simple checklist for a smooth job
You do not need to do much to prepare for floor sanding, but the right steps make a real difference. Most of our customers stay at home throughout the work, and the dust-free equipment we use keeps the rest of the house clean. This checklist will help you get the rooms ready.
Furniture and belongings
The floor needs to be completely clear before sanding can begin. That includes furniture, rugs, plants, curtains that touch the floor and anything stored under beds or sofas. If some items are too heavy to move, mention it when booking and we will plan accordingly. Tie up or remove long curtains so they stay clear of the edges.
Carpets and old coverings
If your floor is currently under carpet, vinyl or laminate, decide whether you want to remove it yourself or have us do it. Removing carpet yourself can save money, but take care with the gripper strips, staples and tacks, which can be sharp. Do not worry about every last staple; we remove any that remain during preparation.
Your preparation list
Clear all furniture, rugs and items from the floor.
Keep curtains clear of the floor.
Move fragile ornaments from nearby shelves.
Make sure there is parking or access close to the property for equipment.
Let us know about any underfloor pipes, cables or heating.
Arrange a safe place for pets and children.
Switch off underfloor heating in advance if you have it.
Living at home during the work
Machinery and wet finish do not mix with curious pets or toddlers. A day out, a friend's house or a closed-off room usually works well. If the room is a thoroughfare, we will plan another route before we start.
Helping the finish dry
A warm room with gentle airflow helps the finish dry properly. Keep the heating on at a normal level, but avoid running fans or heaters aimed directly at the floor. If you have underfloor heating, keep it off and bring it back slowly once the finish has cured.
Planning ahead
Deciding on a few details in advance keeps the job moving. Do you prefer the natural look of oil or the extra protection of lacquer? Would you like a matt, satin or gloss sheen, and are you considering a stain? If you are not sure yet, we will happily show you samples and explain the differences. For stained floors, we apply test patches on the sanded boards, so you will need a little time to choose before we continue.
Planning repairs
Let us know about any damaged boards, creaks or gaps in advance. That allows us to source suitable reclaimed boards and plan the work properly. Skirting boards, thresholds and door bottoms are also worth thinking about, as doors sometimes need trimming once the carpet has gone or after the floor has been finished.
On the day
When the team arrives, we will walk through the room with you, confirm the plan and check anything that needs special care. We will set up the equipment, protect doorways and nearby areas and then begin preparing the floor. You are welcome to check in at any time and ask questions as the work progresses.
In summary
Clear the room completely, including rugs, plants, curtains and anything stored under furniture.
Tell us beforehand about heavy items, underfloor heating, hidden services or any repairs you need.
Sort out parking for our van and make sure pets and young children have somewhere safe to be.
Decide on your finish, sheen level and any stain in advance to avoid delays on the day.
Allow time afterwards for the finish to cure before putting furniture and rugs back.
After the work
Patience at the end makes all the difference. You can usually walk on it in socks after a few hours, replace furniture after 24–48 hours and lay rugs after roughly a week. Fit felt pads to furniture legs before putting anything back.
Have a question about getting ready? Our frequently asked questions answer many common queries, or contact our Enfield team directly.