If you’re dreaming of elegant hardwood floors that boost your home’s beauty and value, you’re not alone. Wood flooring is one of the most timeless, durable, and stylish upgrades you can make. But here’s the catch: the quality of your floors depends just as much on who installs them as on the materials themselves.
Hiring a professional wood flooring contractor can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know who’s trustworthy, qualified, and worth the investment? Whether you’re planning a brand-new installation, a full replacement, or refinishing your existing floors, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
In this post, you’ll learn:
- What wood flooring contractors actually do
- The types of services they offer
- How to choose the best contractor for your project
- What to expect during the installation or refinishing process
- Red flags to avoid
- Plus: Frequently asked questions from real homeowners
Let’s dive in and help you find the right pro for your dream floors.
What Does a Wood Flooring Contractor Do?
A wood flooring contractor is a trained professional who specializes in installing, repairing, refinishing, and maintaining hardwood floors. These experts combine craftsmanship with technical know-how to ensure your floors look beautiful and last for decades.
Here’s a breakdown of their core responsibilities:
- Measuring & Planning: Assessing your space, calculating materials, and planning layouts.
- Installation: Installing hardwood planks (solid, engineered, or parquet) with precision.
- Refinishing: Sanding, staining, and sealing existing floors to restore their shine.
- Repairs: Replacing damaged boards, fixing squeaks, and leveling uneven floors.
- Quality Control: Ensuring floors are properly acclimated, installed, and sealed to prevent warping or gaps.
Types of Wood Flooring They Handle
Most contractors work with:
- Solid hardwood (oak, maple, walnut, etc.)
- Engineered wood flooring
- Parquet flooring
- Exotic hardwoods (bamboo, Brazilian cherry, etc.)
Popular Wood Flooring Styles & Finishes
Here’s a quick visual sampler of common wood flooring materials, patterns, and finish styles that contractors often install or refinish:
Each style brings its own character—your contractor can help you pick the one that best fits your space, lifestyle, and budget.
Services Offered by Wood Flooring Contractors
Not all contractors offer the same services. Here’s what a full-service contractor typically provides:
1. Hardwood Floor Installation
- Subfloor inspection and preparation
- Moisture testing and barrier installation
- Layout planning (straight, diagonal, herringbone)
- Plank installation using nails, glue, or floating systems
- Finishing and sealing
2. Hardwood Floor Refinishing
- Removing old finish using sanding machines
- Repairing damaged planks
- Applying new stain and polyurethane finish
- Buffing for smoothness and shine
3. Floor Repairs & Maintenance
- Replacing warped or cracked boards
- Fixing squeaky or uneven floors
- Re-coating with protective sealants
- Annual maintenance services
How to Choose the Right Wood Flooring Contractor
Choosing the right contractor can make or break your project. Follow these steps to ensure you hire a trustworthy expert.
Step 1: Look for Licensing & Insurance
A legitimate contractor should have:
- A valid contractor’s license (varies by state)
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
Pro Tip: Ask for proof of both license and insurance before signing any agreement.
Step 2: Check Experience & Specialization
Not all flooring contractors are equal. Look for:
- At least 3–5 years of hardwood-specific experience
- Specialization in the type of flooring you want (solid vs engineered)
- Membership in trade associations (like NWFA – National Wood Flooring Association)
Step 3: Read Reviews & Ask for References
- Browse Google, Yelp, and Houzz reviews.
- Ask the contractor for 3 recent references.
- Visit completed projects if possible.
Step 4: Get a Detailed Written Estimate
A good estimate should include:
- Labor cost
- Material cost
- Timeline
- Warranty information
- Cleanup & disposal
Red Flag: Beware of quotes that are too low. This may mean poor materials, lack of insurance, or inexperienced labor.
What to Expect During the Installation Process
Here’s a quick timeline of what typically happens when you hire a wood flooring contractor:
| Stage | Description | Timeline |
| Initial Consultation | Measurements, material selection, quote | 1–2 days |
| Subfloor Prep | Removing old flooring, leveling, moisture barrier | 1–3 days |
| Installation | Installing hardwood planks | 2–7 days |
| Sanding & Finishing | Sanding, staining, sealing | 2–5 days |
| Final Walkthrough | Inspection, warranty handoff | 1 day |
Total Project Duration: Typically 5–14 days, depending on home size and complexity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor
Here are some pitfalls you’ll want to dodge:
- Hiring based on price alone
- Skipping a written contract
- Not checking moisture levels
- Ignoring acclimation time for wood
- Forgetting to ask about warranty
Quick Comparison: DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor
| Feature | DIY | Contractor |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
| Time investment | High (days/weeks) | Moderate (pro team) |
| Skill level required | Advanced | Professional-grade |
| Risk of mistakes | High | Low |
| Warranty | None | Usually 1–5 years |
| Long-term durability | Variable | Consistently high |
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Wood Flooring Contractor
Let’s wrap up the value they bring:
- Precision & craftsmanship
- Access to quality materials
- Proper equipment & tools
- Faster project timelines
- Warrantied work
- Peace of mind
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common homeowner questions about wood flooring contractors:
1. How much does it cost to hire a wood flooring contractor?
Answer: Costs vary by location, materials, and project size. On average:
- Installation: $6 – $15 per sq ft
- Refinishing: $3 – $8 per sq ft
Always request 2–3 quotes for comparison.
2. How long does hardwood floor installation take?
Answer: Most installations take 5 – 10 days, including prep and finishing. Larger homes or custom layouts may take longer.
3. Can a contractor refinish my existing hardwood floors?
Answer: Yes! As long as the floors have at least ¼ inch of wear layer remaining, most contractors can sand, stain, and reseal them.
4. Do contractors help with furniture moving?
Answer: Many contractors offer furniture moving as an add-on service. Always ask upfront—some may charge extra or recommend you handle it.
5. What kind of warranty should I expect?
Answer: Typical warranties range from 1 – 5 years on labor. Some may also pass along manufacturer warranties on materials.
6. Is engineered hardwood better than solid hardwood?
Answer: It depends! Engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture and great for basements or humid climates. Solid hardwood lasts longer and can be refinished more often. A good contractor will help you choose the best fit.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Enjoy Your Floors for Decades
Your wood flooring project is a big investment—and a big opportunity to transform your home. Choosing the right wood flooring contractor ensures the job is done right the first time, saving you money, stress, and future headaches.
From installation and refinishing to repairs and maintenance, a qualified pro brings experience, craftsmanship, and accountability that DIY just can’t match.
Want to get started?
- Call a licensed contractor in your area
- Ask for references & a detailed quote
- Plan your dream floor with confidence
If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend, leave a comment, or bookmark it for later. Your dream floors are only one great contractor away!