How dustless is dustless ?
Dustless sanding is a step up in latest technology in machines required to perform a virtually dustfree environment during the sanding process. Any airborne dust is drawn directly into a closed bag or vacuum cleaner connected to the machine. - however, in some instances, smaller machines used in tight corners etc will generate some dust.
In most cases, it is not necessary to remove curtains, wall hangings etc. Remember........we work clean, and clean up our mess if any.

What is the sanding procedure ?
The sanding procedure consists of a progressive sanding from wall to wall with a good belt sander, followed by progressive edge sanding around the perimeter and right up to the skirtings, (which do not have to be removed). Sanding starts off with a course paper (Grit 16/24/36 and 40) to level uneven boards or remove any old imperfections, residues, paints, stains, varnishes etc, followed by a medium paper (Grit 60or 80), to level off the floorboards further and to prepare it for fine sanding with Grit 100 or 120 to give the floor a flat, smooth surface.

What is the difference between solvent based or waterborne sealants ?
Solvent based (polyurethane) type sealants are carcinogous (cancer causing) sealants which tend to burn the wood and change colour or darken in time. They tend to leave a strong odour for up to 3 or 4 days after application, are generally cheaper, locally manufactured and readily available at your local hardware store. They have a good resistance to chemicals and wear, but are not easily "patchable" in damaged areas, requiring a full sanding. Most solvent based sealants require at least 3 coats with an intermediate sanding between coats.

Waterborne sealants are the latest in modern technology and have definite benefits attached. They are eco-friendly, generally odourless, easy to maintain, a small damaged area in a room is easier to "repair" without having to redo the whole room in most cases. Various sealants are suitable for residence, low traffic to commercial, high traffic(shops, stalls, classrooms,halls, restuarants) extreme wear and sports floors with excellent resistance to scuffing, chemicals and wear. Most waterborne sealants only require 2 coats of sealant, preceeded by a suitable primer to the wood floor. They tend to maintain the natural colour of the wood. An additive such as a UV protector prevents light woods such as Ash, Beech or Maple from turning yellowy/ orange as with a polyurethane type finish.

What about furniture and appliances ?
Before any work can proceed, all moveable furniture, appliances, sensitive equipment, items of value etc, should be removed from the work areas.
It is virtually impossible to work around furniture, or to move items from one room to another and work in stages as this increases the time allowed for in your quote and increases your cost in time and money.
In cases where carpets are to be uplifted and disposed of, there is a nominal charge for this service as it incurs extra labour, travelling, downtime etc. before the sanding procedure can start.
We are willing to assist with bulky or heavy items such as a piano or large cumbersome furniture or appliances, but we are not furniture removers and therefore do not accept any liability for any loss or damage to any property.

How long does it take to sand & seal floors ?
Generally, this is determined by the condition of the floors, which may need repairing first, (as in the case of parquet flooring, loose blocks will have to be re-glued down at least 24 hours before sanding can start) the size and layout of the work area, the type of finish required ie, staining, varnishing or oiling of the wood floor. A competent sander will sand approximately 40 - 55 square meters per day. A primer to the floor will need about 1 - 2 hours to dry. Subsequent coats of sealant will need approximately 4 - 6 hours to dry per coat. Oils generally require 12 - 24 hours per coat to dry. The floors are generally ready for light traffic after this period, but full curing of the final coat will need about 5 - 7 days to maximise wear resistance. In a nutshell, a 45m2 room would take 2 - 3 days providing there is no prior remedial work to be done first.

What if my floors are badly damaged ?
Should your floors require remedial work such as repair or replacement of boards, trims, etc, this will be charged as extra for your account, unless already quoted for in the contract.

How do I clean my floors ?
We supply the full range of correct and economical care & maintenance products to keep your floors looking good for years. Never use "spaghetti" mops with water and detergents or waxes.
Vacuum your floors often, damp mop/wipe any spillages immediately, keep water and grit away from your floors, place a good absorbent mat at each entrance/exit to the house.