So you’ve just had your hardwood floors refinished and you’re wondering when you can put your furniture back in the room. It’s a common question, and one that many people ask. The answer is that it depends on a few factors, but generally, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before returning furniture to the room.
The reason why you need to wait is that the finish on your hardwood floors needs time to dry and cure properly. If you move furniture back into the room too soon, it can scratch or damage the finish, resulting in a less durable and less attractive floor. You don’t want all the hard work and money you put into refinishing your floors to go to waste, so it’s essential to be patient and wait until the finish has fully cured.
The length of time you need to wait before returning furniture depends on the type of finish used, the temperature and humidity of your home, and the size of the room. Different types of finishes have different curing times, so it’s important to ask your flooring professional for specific guidelines for your particular finish. However, as a general rule of thumb, oil-based finishes take longer to cure than water-based finishes, and high-gloss finishes take longer to cure than satin or matte finishes.
The temperature and humidity of your home can also affect the curing time of your hardwood floors. If it’s particularly hot and humid, the finish may take longer to dry and cure properly. On the other hand, if it’s cooler and drier, the finish may cure faster. You should aim to keep the temperature and humidity in your home consistent during the curing process, as fluctuations can cause the finish to dry unevenly or take longer to cure.
The size of the room is also a factor in how long you need to wait before returning furniture. If it’s a small room, the finish may cure faster than a larger room. If you’re not sure how long to wait, it’s best to err on the side of caution and wait at least 24 to 48 hours before moving furniture back in. This will give the finish enough time to dry and cure properly, ensuring that your floors look their best for years to come.
In addition to waiting before moving furniture back in, there are a few other things you can do to protect your newly refinished floors. First, avoid walking on the floors with shoes or high heels for the first few days, as they can scratch or damage the finish. Second, avoid dragging furniture across the floor, as this can also scratch or damage the finish. Instead, use furniture sliders or lift the furniture carefully and place it back in its original position.
In conclusion, how long you should wait before returning furniture after floor refinishing depends on a few factors, including the type of finish used, the temperature and humidity of your home, and the size of the room. As a general rule of thumb, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours before moving furniture back in. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your newly refinished hardwood floors. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your flooring professional for guidance and advice.
