If you’re searching for hardwood floor staining near you, you’ve come to the right place. At Old World Painting Family, we’ve been in business for over 25 years delivering expert painting and flooring-adjacent services across Northern Colorado. Our long history means we bring real craftsmanship, professional refinishing know-how, and trusted advice you can rely on.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you should consider—from choosing a stain color to prepping your floor, selecting the right contractor, understanding cost, and maintaining the finish. Whether you’re in a residential or commercial space, our aim is to make the process clear and achievable.
Why Stain Your Hardwood Floors
Staining hardwood floors is more than just aesthetic—it’s about preserving your investment, improving durability, and enhancing the look of your space.
Benefits of hardwood floor staining:
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Refreshes worn or outdated floors without full replacement
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Enhances wood grain or changes the tone to match your décor
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Adds value to your property by giving floors a fresh, unified appearance
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Boosts protection against wear when sealed with a proper finish like polyurethane
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Provides the opportunity to fix scratches, blotches, or uneven color in older floors
Key Factors to Consider Before Staining
Before you hire a contractor or roll up your sleeves, evaluate these important factors.
The Type of Wood and Flooring
Can you stain engineered hardwood floors or only solid wood? You can stain engineered hardwood, but be mindful of its thin wear layer. Over-sanding can expose the underlying plywood. Solid hardwood is more forgiving and can be refinished multiple times.
Prep Work: Sanding, Cleaning, and Repair
Proper prep is non-negotiable. The best stain job will look inconsistent if the floor hasn’t been sanded and cleaned properly.
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Remove furniture and vents, and seal off the space
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Sand from coarse to fine grits for an even surface
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Vacuum and tack-cloth the floor to eliminate dust
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Fix gouges, protruding nails, or damaged boards before staining
Choosing the Right Stain Type and Color
Your stain choice affects both look and longevity:
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Oil-based stains: Deep penetration, rich tones, longer drying time
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Water-based stains: Faster drying, lower odor, cooler tones
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Color groups: Light, mid-tone, dark, and neutral stains can completely change a room’s mood
Always test samples in your room at different times of day before committing to a color.
Professional vs. DIY
While DIY can save money, there are risks such as uneven stain or blotchiness. Working with a seasoned contractor ensures:
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Professional sanding and dust control
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Even application and finish layering
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Warranty or guarantee on workmanship
Look for contractors with strong local reviews and proven hardwood floor staining results. See what our customers are saying
What to Expect During the Staining Process
Here’s what a typical professional hardwood floor staining project involves:
Step-by-Step Overview
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Furniture removal and prep: Clear rooms and mask off openings
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Sanding: Remove old finish or stain for a clean surface
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Cleaning: Vacuum and wipe down the area thoroughly
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Stain application: Apply stain with a roller, rag, or pad along the wood grain
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Drying time: Allow 24–48 hours depending on product type
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Finishing coats: Apply 2–3 coats of polyurethane for protection
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Curing and furniture return: Wait for the finish to fully harden before moving items back
Timing and Disruptions
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A medium-sized room usually takes 2–4 days
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Expect some odor and dust, even with dust-control systems
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Use proper ventilation during and after staining
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Plan around furniture movement and drying times
Cost Considerations for Hardwood Floor Staining Near You
Cost depends on several factors, but understanding typical drivers helps you plan your budget.
Key Cost Factors
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Square footage of the project
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Floor condition and previous finish
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Type of stain and finish products
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Local labor rates and travel distance
On average, refinishing (including staining) can range between $3 and $8 per square foot depending on your area. Request a detailed estimate that outlines materials, labor, and schedule.
Maintenance After Staining: Protect Your Investment
After you’ve invested in professional hardwood floor staining, it’s essential to maintain it properly.
Maintenance Tips
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Sweep or vacuum regularly with a hardwood-safe setting
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Wipe spills immediately—don’t let water sit
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Use area rugs or mats in high-traffic areas
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Avoid harsh cleaners, vinegar, or steam mops
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Rotate rugs and furniture to reduce uneven fading
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Maintain indoor humidity between 40–60%
How to Choose the Right Local Contractor
Finding the right professional makes all the difference in your results.
What to look for in a contractor:
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10+ years of experience in hardwood floor staining and refinishing
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Clear, detailed written estimates
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Verified reviews and references
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Use of dust-control systems and low-VOC stains
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Licensing and insurance coverage
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Transparent communication from start to finish
Old World Painting Family brings more than 25 years of experience working on interior and exterior surfaces, ensuring your hardwood floors receive the attention and skill they deserve.
FAQ – Your Hardwood Floor Staining Questions Answered
Q1: Can I stain just part of my floor or match new boards to existing stain?
Yes, but full-room staining gives the most consistent result. Matching new boards is possible but should always be tested first.
Q2: Is water-based stain less durable than oil-based?
Not necessarily. Water-based stains dry faster and have lower odor, while oil-based stains provide richer tones. Both can last long with a good top coat.
Q3: How many times can hardwood floors be refinished and stained?
Solid hardwood can typically be refinished several times; engineered hardwood has a thinner top layer and fewer refinish cycles.
Q4: How long before I can move furniture back after staining?
Wait at least 24 hours after the final coat for light use and around 7 days before adding rugs or heavy furniture.
Q5: Will my stained floors fade over time?
Yes, natural wood can lighten or darken with UV exposure. Use curtains, UV-blocking film, and regular maintenance to reduce fading.
At Old World Painting Family, we understand that choosing to stain your hardwood floors is a meaningful investment. From stain selection to expert finishing, we’re here to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Old World Painting Family delivers expert painting services across Northern Colorado with over 25 years of experience specializing in residential and commercial painting, new construction, and remodel projects. Our family-oriented approach ensures customized interior and exterior painting solutions with exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and clear communication. Serving homeowners, contractors, and property managers, we prioritize reliable scheduling and treat every project like our own, reflecting our commitment to quality and professionalism. Contact Old World Painting Family today to request a free estimate and discover how our trusted painting contractors can transform your space. Visit us at oldworldpaintingfamily.com to learn more.
