Old heart pine and oak floors in New Orleans have often been sanded before, so we measure what wood is left. Then we choose between a full sand and a lighter recoat.
Most refinishing around New Orleans is on old floors: oak in 1920s bungalows and heart pine in shotguns and cottages that can be a century older. Many have been sanded several times already, so before we start we check how much wood is left above the tongue. Pulling a floor register or a threshold usually shows the board thickness, and that tells us whether a full sand is safe or a lighter recoat is the better call.
A full refinish means sanding to bare wood, filling gaps where it makes sense, staining if you want color and laying several coats of finish. A screen and recoat lightly scuffs the finish already there and adds a fresh coat. That is enough for floors that look dull but are not worn through to the wood. Heart pine is full of resin, so some stains go on blotchy, and many owners keep it natural.
Our damp air slows drying, so the air conditioning should run during the job and for days after. Water-based finishes dry faster and stay clear, while oil-based finishes add an amber tone that suits old pine. We tell you in the written quote how long to keep pets, rugs and furniture off the floor. Ceiling fans help move air, but windows left open on a muggy day work against you.
Hardwood refinishing in New Orleans: common questions
Can heart pine floors be sanded again?
Usually, if enough wood remains above the tongue. Old heart pine has often been sanded before, so we measure first and sand only as deep as the floor allows.
Will stain look even on heart pine?
Not always. The resin in heart pine can make stain take unevenly, so we test a small spot first. Many owners choose a clear finish instead.
Does humidity affect refinishing?
Yes. Finish dries slower in damp air, so keep the air conditioning on during the work and while the finish cures.
How it works
- Free in-home estimate: Call, text or book online. We measure the rooms and check the subfloor.
- Written quote: Material, prep and price in writing.
- Prep & delivery: We plan the order of rooms, deliver material and let wood acclimate.
- Install & walk-through: Our crew installs or refinishes, cleans up and walks it with you.