FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Do you provide a warranty?
We provide a manufacturers warranty and we only use recognised brands. We also strictly adhere to manufacturer’s installation processes. What coating is best? Water based or solvent based? For a high gloss, traditional finish solvent based polyurethane is recommended. For a clean, fresh, contemporary, non-yellow finish, a water based solution works best. Contact one of our consultants and we will only be too happy to help find the best coating for your floors. How long will it take to get my floors sanded and polyurethaned? Job duration is dependent on the size, the floors condition and the customers flooring needs i.e. nail hole filling, staining, repairs etc… Here is a general guide based on size.
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How much dust is involved in sanding my floors?
Our European machinery does have comprehensive dust collection systems which vastly minimize the dust levels created in sanding your floors. With the introduction of our new centralised vacuum system dust is vastly eliminated, up to 98% dust free.
It is still advised that electronic equipment such as TVs, stereos and alike are covered or removed from the sanding areas. Where available all external doors and windows will be open for the duration of the sanding to also minimize any dust.
The floor itself is vacuumed numerous times throughout the job and windows sills, skirting and bench tops are also vacuumed on completion of the job. Customers must be aware there will be dust created but only very minimal.
What types of finishes are available to me?
What is the difference between moisture cured polyurethane and water borne polyurethane?
Moisture cured is solvent based polyurethane; it is very strong and toxic smelling and takes up to 24 hours to dry. Great for investment properties or homes /buildings etc. Very hard wearing.
Water borne is water borne polyurethane which is non-smelling, non toxic, non yellowing and only takes up to 4 hours to dry. (Weather dependant).
Are timber floors recommended for rental properties?
Polyurethaned timber floors are ideal for rental properties and are very common. Landlords appreciate the cost-effectiveness and sturdiness of timber floors. No more orange cordial, red wine or coffee stains on the carpet. These common staining products can be easily wiped up.
My current floors are looking worn and dull? What alternative options are available to me?
Your floor could warrant a re-glaze (maintenance coats). This is where we clean the floor the day before with hot soapy water, then allow to dry. Then we lightly disc back the floor (to key it up), vacuum, finally applying 1 or 2 coats of water borne polyurethane, with your choice of finish.
Do you move all the furniture and replace it, or is it the customer’s responsibility?
No – due to liability and insurance issues. The customer is solely responsible for their furniture.
When can I put my furniture back?
We recommend 7 days, the time taken for polyurethane to reach maximum strength. However we understand you need to get on with your lives, so 48 hours (at your own risk), with carpet or felt pads under the heavy objects, and avoid dragging furniture where possible.
My floors have black water stains around the nails and in the wet areas, will these come out?
Water stains may not always come out, it’s all dependent how deep into the timber they are. It will only be apparent once we commence sanding on these areas. No guarantees that water marks will ever come out with sanding; board replacement can solve this issue. We can stain your floors dark to hide these marks.
My floor boards have wide gaps in them. Can they be filled?
Yes, we can trowel fill your floors with an epoxy filler, coloured up to best match your floors colour but your guarantee would be void as there be natural atmospheric variation and floor movement is present.
Are your quotes free, also do you quote over the phone?
Yes all Rodney & Hamilton quotes are free will travel further on larger for larger jobs , and yes we can quote over the phone as long as the customer provides the floors measurements and condition etc…
Can I stay in my home while you are sanding & polyurethaning my floors?
During the sanding stage you can stay, however you need to stay off the sanded floor for fear of contaminating the exposed timber.
Water borne polyurethane – you can stay in your home as it is toxic free.
Can you do the floors around other tradesmen?
For safety reasons all other tradesman must be away from the floors. The floor sander requires full attention on his machinery and floors and cannot worry about tradesman, tools and objects getting in the way.
What should I do first, the floorsanding or the installation of new carpet?
It is recommended that the floor sanding and polyurethaning to be done first, shortly followed by the carpet. New carpet can create a lot of unwanted dust that can affect the wet polyurethane, thus giving it a dusty speckled finish.
When will the polyurethane be dry enough to walk on?
6-8 hours for water-borne polyurethane. Weather dependant.
Is it true that hardwood floors provide a cleaner sanitized environment in your home?
Yes. Carpet attracts and can contain many allergenic spores, dust-mites, bacteria, fungi and other unhealthy microbes. Vacuuming regularly does not always remove these nasties. Water-borne polyurethane floors should be washed with neutral detergents, killing germs and leaving your floor disinfected and clean.
How long do polyurethaned timber floors last?
When properly maintained, polyurethane floors can last a lifetime. With the added bonus of re glazing (maintenance coats) your floors when needed. On average carpet needs to be replaced every 10 or 12 years. Every floor should be re-visited between 1-4 years dependant on the amount of traffic the floor get, if wear is showing then a re glaze is an option.
How far ahead do I need to book in with you?
As soon a possible, a couple of weeks is normally sufficient. School and Christmas Holidays seem to be our busiest times so please book well in advance if you require work done within these weeks.
How long will it take for the smell to go?
There is NO smell from water borne polyurethanes and oils.
How much does it cost to have my floors sanded and polyurethaned?
This will depend on the size and condition of the floor. Floor sanding is often more cost effective than alternative floor coverings (e.g. Vinyl, carpet and tiles). Generally polyurethaned floors are easier to maintain and keep clean and have a longer life expectancy.
Do you fill nail holes, gauges and other random holes?
Nail hole filling is a customer preference, some floors require nail hole filling to give a uniform look while other floors should not be filled to keep it unique rustic look. Your floor sander will recommend whether to fill or not at the time of the initial quote. However the final decision is the customers.
Do you remove carpet, tacks and staples?
We can remove and dispose of carpet, tacks and staples, this is an additional cost which will be discussed and added to the quote.
My floors have been sanded in the past, can they be re-sanded again?
Most timber have 3 or 4 sands in them, if sanded properly. This is all dependant on the condition of the floor.
What is the lifespan of the timber floor coating?
With our recommended commercial grade coating, 8 to 10 years would be expected.
How much dust is created during the floor sanding process?
As we use the latest equipment for dust prevention, the dust created is minimal. We also vacuum between coats to assist this process. Contact us to discuss any other preventative measures you can put in place prior to your floor sanding commences.
installation.
How often will I need to sand and re-polish my floors?
There are things you can do to prolong the life of your polished floors. Providing regular maintenance is performed eg vacuuming and periodical “dry” mopping, the coating system should last 7-10 years until it would require maintenance re-coat. Remember too that door mats placed at doorways will keep sand, dirt and mud being walked over the floor.
Our European machinery does have comprehensive dust collection systems which vastly minimize the dust levels created in sanding your floors. With the introduction of our new centralised vacuum system dust is vastly eliminated, up to 98% dust free.
It is still advised that electronic equipment such as TVs, stereos and alike are covered or removed from the sanding areas. Where available all external doors and windows will be open for the duration of the sanding to also minimize any dust.
The floor itself is vacuumed numerous times throughout the job and windows sills, skirting and bench tops are also vacuumed on completion of the job. Customers must be aware there will be dust created but only very minimal.
What types of finishes are available to me?
- Gloss – very shiny and reflective.
- Semi-Gloss (commonly know as ‘Satin’) – Somewhat shiny. Semi reflective.
- Matte – A dull and flat like finish.
What is the difference between moisture cured polyurethane and water borne polyurethane?
Moisture cured is solvent based polyurethane; it is very strong and toxic smelling and takes up to 24 hours to dry. Great for investment properties or homes /buildings etc. Very hard wearing.
Water borne is water borne polyurethane which is non-smelling, non toxic, non yellowing and only takes up to 4 hours to dry. (Weather dependant).
Are timber floors recommended for rental properties?
Polyurethaned timber floors are ideal for rental properties and are very common. Landlords appreciate the cost-effectiveness and sturdiness of timber floors. No more orange cordial, red wine or coffee stains on the carpet. These common staining products can be easily wiped up.
My current floors are looking worn and dull? What alternative options are available to me?
Your floor could warrant a re-glaze (maintenance coats). This is where we clean the floor the day before with hot soapy water, then allow to dry. Then we lightly disc back the floor (to key it up), vacuum, finally applying 1 or 2 coats of water borne polyurethane, with your choice of finish.
Do you move all the furniture and replace it, or is it the customer’s responsibility?
No – due to liability and insurance issues. The customer is solely responsible for their furniture.
When can I put my furniture back?
We recommend 7 days, the time taken for polyurethane to reach maximum strength. However we understand you need to get on with your lives, so 48 hours (at your own risk), with carpet or felt pads under the heavy objects, and avoid dragging furniture where possible.
My floors have black water stains around the nails and in the wet areas, will these come out?
Water stains may not always come out, it’s all dependent how deep into the timber they are. It will only be apparent once we commence sanding on these areas. No guarantees that water marks will ever come out with sanding; board replacement can solve this issue. We can stain your floors dark to hide these marks.
My floor boards have wide gaps in them. Can they be filled?
Yes, we can trowel fill your floors with an epoxy filler, coloured up to best match your floors colour but your guarantee would be void as there be natural atmospheric variation and floor movement is present.
Are your quotes free, also do you quote over the phone?
Yes all Rodney & Hamilton quotes are free will travel further on larger for larger jobs , and yes we can quote over the phone as long as the customer provides the floors measurements and condition etc…
Can I stay in my home while you are sanding & polyurethaning my floors?
During the sanding stage you can stay, however you need to stay off the sanded floor for fear of contaminating the exposed timber.
Water borne polyurethane – you can stay in your home as it is toxic free.
Can you do the floors around other tradesmen?
For safety reasons all other tradesman must be away from the floors. The floor sander requires full attention on his machinery and floors and cannot worry about tradesman, tools and objects getting in the way.
What should I do first, the floorsanding or the installation of new carpet?
It is recommended that the floor sanding and polyurethaning to be done first, shortly followed by the carpet. New carpet can create a lot of unwanted dust that can affect the wet polyurethane, thus giving it a dusty speckled finish.
When will the polyurethane be dry enough to walk on?
6-8 hours for water-borne polyurethane. Weather dependant.
Is it true that hardwood floors provide a cleaner sanitized environment in your home?
Yes. Carpet attracts and can contain many allergenic spores, dust-mites, bacteria, fungi and other unhealthy microbes. Vacuuming regularly does not always remove these nasties. Water-borne polyurethane floors should be washed with neutral detergents, killing germs and leaving your floor disinfected and clean.
How long do polyurethaned timber floors last?
When properly maintained, polyurethane floors can last a lifetime. With the added bonus of re glazing (maintenance coats) your floors when needed. On average carpet needs to be replaced every 10 or 12 years. Every floor should be re-visited between 1-4 years dependant on the amount of traffic the floor get, if wear is showing then a re glaze is an option.
How far ahead do I need to book in with you?
As soon a possible, a couple of weeks is normally sufficient. School and Christmas Holidays seem to be our busiest times so please book well in advance if you require work done within these weeks.
How long will it take for the smell to go?
There is NO smell from water borne polyurethanes and oils.
How much does it cost to have my floors sanded and polyurethaned?
This will depend on the size and condition of the floor. Floor sanding is often more cost effective than alternative floor coverings (e.g. Vinyl, carpet and tiles). Generally polyurethaned floors are easier to maintain and keep clean and have a longer life expectancy.
Do you fill nail holes, gauges and other random holes?
Nail hole filling is a customer preference, some floors require nail hole filling to give a uniform look while other floors should not be filled to keep it unique rustic look. Your floor sander will recommend whether to fill or not at the time of the initial quote. However the final decision is the customers.
Do you remove carpet, tacks and staples?
We can remove and dispose of carpet, tacks and staples, this is an additional cost which will be discussed and added to the quote.
My floors have been sanded in the past, can they be re-sanded again?
Most timber have 3 or 4 sands in them, if sanded properly. This is all dependant on the condition of the floor.
What is the lifespan of the timber floor coating?
With our recommended commercial grade coating, 8 to 10 years would be expected.
How much dust is created during the floor sanding process?
As we use the latest equipment for dust prevention, the dust created is minimal. We also vacuum between coats to assist this process. Contact us to discuss any other preventative measures you can put in place prior to your floor sanding commences.
installation.
How often will I need to sand and re-polish my floors?
There are things you can do to prolong the life of your polished floors. Providing regular maintenance is performed eg vacuuming and periodical “dry” mopping, the coating system should last 7-10 years until it would require maintenance re-coat. Remember too that door mats placed at doorways will keep sand, dirt and mud being walked over the floor.
Floor Sanding Services
How long will the floor sanding job take?
You can expect at least two days for all jobs due to the coat and cure time of the polyurethane. We suggest allowing at least 5-7 days from start to finish. Depending on the size of job average 30-50sq at least 2-3 daysover 70 sq+ 5 -7 days
Who will be in my home doing the floor sanding?
All our staff are Site Safe approved with a solid reputation, so you can feel safe in the knowledge that we are trustworthy. We are also insured for any accidental damage that may occur.
When can I walk on the floor?
The floor will be dry to the touch within 24 hours, so you can walk on it then. But - it will not be fully cured for at least seven days, as per manufacturers recommendation and warranty coverage. Before this time is up, you must remove your shoes and make sure not to put any heavy furniture on the floor. If you need to put furniture down before the seven days is up, make sure not to drag the furniture - place the furniture gently where you want it and put carpet under the furniture feet to avoid denting and scratching.
What about dust?
A1A(NZ)LTD floor sanding machines operate 99 percent dust free and have extractors. There will be very minimal dust.
Can I stay in the house while you work?
No, sorry. Many of our finishing and polyurethaning agents are toxic - solvent-based polyurethane is particularly so. While working with these materials, we wear dedicated safety and breathing equipment. It would be dangerous to remain in the house while the polyurethane is being applied or before the 24 hour initial curing (drying) period is up.
Can I leave the pets behind?
No, polyurethanes are just as toxic to pets.
Minimum charge for a small area?
For very small areas we have a minimum charge policy. If the total square area falls within this limit then we will charge our minimum flat fee. Like a bigger area, this includes floor sanding and applying 3 coats of your choice of polyurethane finish.
Over the phone quotes
We can give you an indication only of what your job may cost over the phone If you are able to supply us with the measurements, condition of the solid hardwood floor. However, we recommend an on-site quote as it is free with no obligation.
You can expect at least two days for all jobs due to the coat and cure time of the polyurethane. We suggest allowing at least 5-7 days from start to finish. Depending on the size of job average 30-50sq at least 2-3 daysover 70 sq+ 5 -7 days
Who will be in my home doing the floor sanding?
All our staff are Site Safe approved with a solid reputation, so you can feel safe in the knowledge that we are trustworthy. We are also insured for any accidental damage that may occur.
When can I walk on the floor?
The floor will be dry to the touch within 24 hours, so you can walk on it then. But - it will not be fully cured for at least seven days, as per manufacturers recommendation and warranty coverage. Before this time is up, you must remove your shoes and make sure not to put any heavy furniture on the floor. If you need to put furniture down before the seven days is up, make sure not to drag the furniture - place the furniture gently where you want it and put carpet under the furniture feet to avoid denting and scratching.
What about dust?
A1A(NZ)LTD floor sanding machines operate 99 percent dust free and have extractors. There will be very minimal dust.
Can I stay in the house while you work?
No, sorry. Many of our finishing and polyurethaning agents are toxic - solvent-based polyurethane is particularly so. While working with these materials, we wear dedicated safety and breathing equipment. It would be dangerous to remain in the house while the polyurethane is being applied or before the 24 hour initial curing (drying) period is up.
Can I leave the pets behind?
No, polyurethanes are just as toxic to pets.
Minimum charge for a small area?
For very small areas we have a minimum charge policy. If the total square area falls within this limit then we will charge our minimum flat fee. Like a bigger area, this includes floor sanding and applying 3 coats of your choice of polyurethane finish.
Over the phone quotes
We can give you an indication only of what your job may cost over the phone If you are able to supply us with the measurements, condition of the solid hardwood floor. However, we recommend an on-site quote as it is free with no obligation.
Over the phone quotes
We can give you an indication only of what your job may cost over the phone If you are able to supply us with the measurements, condition of the solid hardwood floor. However, we recommend an on-site quote as it is free with no obligation.
How long will it take for the smell to go?
Once the floor sanding process is complete and you are able to get in and open up the place to air out, the smell should be gone in approximately 24 to 48 hours. Do not spray any kind of aerosols like air fresheners or fly spray as this can land on the polyurethane and cause a reaction. We do not recommend the use of heaters to speed up the drying time. Not only is this a huge fire risk, but it can damage the polyurethane and the solid wood flooring. Remember, 3 days for the polyurethane to fully cure.
Do you move all the furniture and replace it, or is it the customers responsibility?
No - due to liability and insurance issues. The customer is solely responsible for their furniture.
How far in advance should I Book in with you?
We recommend you book in as soon as you have a confirmed date. Generally, two weeks is usually enough notice.
I am getting carpet laid in other areas, when should I Get it laid?
It is recommended that the floor sanding and polishing to be done first, shortly followed by the carpet. New carpet can create a lot of unwanted dust that can affect the wet polyurethane, thus giving it a dusty speckled finish.
Water stains may not always come out, it's all dependent how deep into the hardwood timber they are. It will only be apparent once we commence floor sanding on these areas. No guarantees that watermarks will ever come out with floor sanding. floorboard replacement is the ONLY option to resolve.
We can give you an indication only of what your job may cost over the phone If you are able to supply us with the measurements, condition of the solid hardwood floor. However, we recommend an on-site quote as it is free with no obligation.
How long will it take for the smell to go?
Once the floor sanding process is complete and you are able to get in and open up the place to air out, the smell should be gone in approximately 24 to 48 hours. Do not spray any kind of aerosols like air fresheners or fly spray as this can land on the polyurethane and cause a reaction. We do not recommend the use of heaters to speed up the drying time. Not only is this a huge fire risk, but it can damage the polyurethane and the solid wood flooring. Remember, 3 days for the polyurethane to fully cure.
Do you move all the furniture and replace it, or is it the customers responsibility?
No - due to liability and insurance issues. The customer is solely responsible for their furniture.
How far in advance should I Book in with you?
We recommend you book in as soon as you have a confirmed date. Generally, two weeks is usually enough notice.
I am getting carpet laid in other areas, when should I Get it laid?
It is recommended that the floor sanding and polishing to be done first, shortly followed by the carpet. New carpet can create a lot of unwanted dust that can affect the wet polyurethane, thus giving it a dusty speckled finish.
Water stains may not always come out, it's all dependent how deep into the hardwood timber they are. It will only be apparent once we commence floor sanding on these areas. No guarantees that watermarks will ever come out with floor sanding. floorboard replacement is the ONLY option to resolve.