Hardwood Flooring FAQ — Goss Floors

Question 1

Can you spot-repair a hardwood floor damaged by a dishwasher leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes — in most cases we can remove just the damaged boards and lace new wood in seamlessly. We custom-match the stain so the repair blends with the rest of the floor. The key is catching it early: the longer water sits, the more boards cup, buckle, or grow mold underneath. Call us as soon as you notice damage.

Question 2

How much does it cost to repair a dishwasher or appliance leak on hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

Most dishwasher leak repairs run between $500 and $1,500 depending on how many boards were damaged and whether the subfloor needs attention. We give free in-home estimates so you know exactly what you're looking at before any work begins. Evenings and weekends are welcome.

Question 3

Can you add new wood to an existing floor and sand it to match?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — this is called lacing or weaving, and it's one of our specialties. We cut out the damaged or missing section, install new boards of the same species and profile, then sand and refinish the entire area so the repair is invisible. We custom-match the stain to your existing floor.

Question 4

My floor has a few scratched or gouged boards. Do I have to refinish the whole floor?

Accepted Answer

Not always. If the damage is limited to a small area, we can often replace just those boards and blend the finish. If the scratches are widespread but shallow, a screen-and-recoat (a light buff and new topcoat) may be all you need — no full sanding required. We'll tell you honestly which approach makes sense.

Question 5

Can you install hardwood floors over concrete?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Engineered hardwood can be glued directly to a concrete slab. Solid hardwood can also go over concrete using a sleeper system or a plywood subfloor installed on top. We test moisture levels first — concrete slabs can hold moisture that damages wood if not properly addressed. We'll walk you through the right approach for your slab.

Question 6

Can you install new hardwood over existing hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, but we usually don't recommend it. Installing over existing wood adds height that can cause problems at doorways, transitions, and stairs. It also hides whatever is underneath — if there's moisture damage or squeaks, they'll come right through. In most cases it's better to remove the old floor and start fresh.

Question 7

Can you install hardwood over linoleum or vinyl?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what's under the linoleum. If the subfloor is solid and level, engineered hardwood can sometimes go over it. But older linoleum (pre-1980s) may contain asbestos, which requires professional testing and abatement before any work begins. We'll assess the situation and let you know what's safe and practical.

Question 8

How much does it cost to install new hardwood floors?

Accepted Answer

Installation costs vary based on wood species, board width, subfloor condition, and square footage. As a general range, expect $6–$12 per square foot for installation labor on solid unfinished hardwood, plus the cost of the wood itself. We provide detailed free in-home estimates — no vague ballparks, no surprises.

Question 9

What is a diagonal or 45-degree hardwood install?

Accepted Answer

A diagonal install means the boards run at a 45-degree angle to the walls instead of parallel. It's a great choice for open floor plans, smaller rooms that need to feel larger, or homes where two rooms meet at a corner and you want the floor to flow naturally. It does require more material (about 15% extra for waste) and more labor, but the visual result is striking.

Question 10

How long does a hardwood floor installation take?

Accepted Answer

A typical room (200–400 sq ft) takes 1–2 days to install. Larger whole-home projects may take 3–5 days. After installation, site-finished floors need 24–48 hours of dry time per coat, with 2–3 coats typical. We work efficiently and always give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Question 11

How do I know if my floors need refinishing or just a recoat?

Accepted Answer

Do a simple water test: put a few drops of water on the floor. If it beads up, the finish is still protecting the wood. If it soaks in within a minute or two, the finish is worn and the wood is exposed. Refinishing (full sand) is needed when the wood itself is scratched, stained, or discolored. A screen-and-recoat works when the finish is dull but the wood underneath is still in good shape.

Question 12

How dusty is floor sanding? Do I need to leave my home?

Accepted Answer

We use a dust-containment sanding system that captures the vast majority of dust at the source. It's not 100% dust-free — some fine particles will settle — but it's dramatically cleaner than traditional open sanding. Most clients stay in the home during the day and return each evening after we've cleaned up. We seal off work areas and protect your belongings throughout.

Question 13

How long does floor refinishing take and how long before I can walk on them?

Accepted Answer

Sanding and applying the first coat typically takes 1–2 days. Each finish coat needs 24 hours to dry before the next coat, and most floors get 2–3 coats. You can walk on the floors in socks after 24 hours, but we recommend waiting 72 hours before moving furniture back, and 2 weeks before placing area rugs.

Question 14

Can you match my existing stain color when refinishing?

Accepted Answer

Yes — custom stain matching is one of our specialties. We bring stain samples to your home and test them on your actual wood species in your actual lighting before committing to a color. Every wood species takes stain differently, so what looks like 'medium walnut' on a sample board may look different on your red oak. We get it right before we sand the whole floor.

Question 15

How does the free estimate work?

Accepted Answer

Jim comes to your home, measures the space, assesses the subfloor and existing floors, and walks you through exactly what the job involves — including anything that might affect the price. You get a written estimate that covers everything: labor, materials, prep, cleanup, and finish coats. No vague line items, no surprises when the invoice arrives. Evenings and weekends are welcome.

Question 16

Do I need to move my furniture before you arrive?

Accepted Answer

For refinishing jobs, yes — the floors need to be completely clear. We can help move lighter items, but large furniture (pianos, heavy appliances, built-ins) should be moved before we arrive. For installation in a new construction or empty room, no prep is needed on your end.

Question 17

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Goss Floors is fully licensed (Lic# GOSSFFL851P1), bonded, and insured. We've been in business since 1999 and carry all required coverage for work in residential homes across King, Snohomish, and Skagit counties.

Question 18

How do I verify a contractor's license, bond, and insurance in Washington State?

Accepted Answer

Washington State makes it easy — and every homeowner should do it before hiring anyone. The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) maintains a free public lookup at lni.wa.gov where you can search any contractor by name or license number and instantly see whether their license is active, their bond is current, and their insurance is in force. Goss Floors has been continuously licensed since 1999 — first as a sole proprietorship, then as an S corporation starting in 2016, but the same company, the same people, and the same license the entire time. A lot of contractors in this industry change company names, restructure, or start fresh every few years. That's worth paying attention to. A long, unbroken license history is one of the clearest signals that you're dealing with a contractor who stands behind their work.

Question 19

Do you work on weekends or evenings for estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Jim is happy to come out evenings and weekends for estimates. We know most homeowners work during the day, and we want to make it easy to get a real look at your project without taking time off work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Repairs & Water Damage

Installation

Sanding & Refinishing

Process & Pricing

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