The short answer
Estimates for the same floor can look very different because companies include different things. Ask every company the same questions, get the answers in writing, and compare them line by line.
About the company
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Will the owner or your own crew do the work, or do you use subcontractors?
- Can I see photos of recent jobs or talk to past customers?
- What warranty do you give, and what does it cover?
About the job
- Is it a full sand to bare wood or a recoat?
- What finish will you use, and how many coats?
- Is stain included? Can I see a sample on my floor first?
- How do you control dust and protect the rest of the house?
- Are stairs, closets, board repairs and moving furniture included?
- How many days will it take, and when can we walk on it, move furniture back and lay rugs?
About the estimate
- Is the estimate free, and is it in writing?
- What could make the price go up once you start?
- How much is due up front, and when is the rest due?
Estimate comparison checklist
Copy this table onto paper and fill in one column per company. The lowest price isn't a bargain if it leaves out something the others include.
| Included? | Company 1 | Company 2 | Company 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rooms and square footage | |||
| Full sand or recoat | |||
| Number of finish coats | |||
| Stain | |||
| Stairs | |||
| Board repairs | |||
| Moving furniture | |||
| Dust control | |||
| Warranty | |||
| Total price |
Key takeaways
- Ask every company the same questions
- Get answers and the warranty in writing
- Compare what's included, not just the total
Common questions
How many estimates should I get for floor refinishing?
Two or three is common. It gives you a sense of fair pricing and lets you compare how each company plans to do the job.
How do I check if a refinisher is licensed in Utah?
Utah's Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) has an online license lookup. Ask the company for its business name and license number, then search for it.
Should I get the warranty in writing?
Yes. Ask what it covers, such as peeling or flaking finish, and for how long, and keep it with your estimate.
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