What Happens After the Estimate? A Step-by-Step Guide to Hardwood Floor Services in Eden Prairie, MN
At Timberwolf Hardwood Floors, we know getting an estimate is just the beginning—and for many homeowners, it’s the part that brings the most questions. What happens next? How long does the process take? What should you expect before, during, and after the work is done?
We’re here to make things clear. Our team handles every step of your flooring project in Eden Prairie, MN, from your first in-home consultation to long-term floor care. Here’s what the process looks like once you get your free estimate.
Step 1: Your Free In-Home Evaluation
Every project starts with a free, no-pressure estimate. When we visit your home, we take time to learn about your space and how you use it. Do you have kids or pets? Are you hoping to match an existing floor or start fresh with something new?
We’ll inspect your current floors and subfloor to check for things like moisture issues or wear and tear. Based on what we find, we’ll recommend the best solution—whether that’s new installation, refinishing, buffing, or repairs.
After the visit, you’ll get a detailed written estimate outlining the scope of work, materials, and the estimated timeline. There’s no push to commit—we want you to feel comfortable and informed before making any decisions.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Flooring and Finish
Once you’re ready to move forward, we’ll help you pick out materials that suit your lifestyle and budget. Not every type of hardwood or finish is right for every home, so we’ll walk you through your options and explain the pros and cons.
You’ll choose details like:
- The wood species (white oak, maple, walnut, hickory, etc.)
- The plank width and grade
- The finish — whether you prefer a water-based polyurethane, oil-based option, or WOCA natural oil
We’ll also talk about how each option handles foot traffic, sunlight, and maintenance. Our goal is to help you find a look that fits your style and performs well for years to come.
Step 3: Scheduling and Preparation
Once your materials are selected, we’ll schedule a start date. If your project is part of a remodel, we’ll coordinate with your builder or contractor so everything runs smoothly.
Before any installation or refinishing begins, we test the moisture levels in your subfloor and let your new wood acclimate to your home’s environment. This step prevents future warping or gapping and sets your floors up for long-term success.
We’ll also take care of moving furniture if needed and protect nearby areas to keep your home clean during the project.
Step 4: Installation, Refinishing, or Buffing
Now it’s time for the fun part—watching your new or restored floors take shape. Depending on your project, we may:
- Install brand-new hardwood flooring
- Sand and refinish your existing floors
- Perform a buff and coat to refresh your current finish
We use professional-grade equipment that keeps dust to a minimum and maintains clear communication throughout the process. Our team gives you daily updates so you always know what stage we’re in.
Most installations take just a few days. Buff and coat projects can be completed in a single day, while full refinishing takes a bit longer to allow for drying between coats.
Step 5: Final Touches and Walkthrough
After the final coat is applied, we’ll tell you exactly how long to wait before walking on your new floors or moving furniture back in—this varies depending on your chosen finish.
Once everything is cured and ready, we’ll do a final walkthrough together. If you see anything you’d like adjusted, we’ll take care of it right away. We leave your home spotless, with every detail polished and ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Long-Term Floor Care and Maintenance
Our relationship doesn’t end once the job is done. We’ll provide a simple care guide with tips on how to clean and protect your floors, such as:
- Sweeping or vacuuming regularly to remove grit
- Using felt pads under furniture
- Placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas
We’ll also explain what products are safe for your finish and what to avoid—like steam mops or vinegar-based cleaners.
To keep your floors looking their best, we recommend a professional buff and coat every few years. This adds a protective layer and refreshes your finish without the need for full refinishing. And if you ever need touch-ups or board replacements, we’re just a call away.
Start Your Flooring Project in Eden Prairie With Confidence
When you choose Timberwolf Hardwood Floors, you’re not just hiring an installer—you’re partnering with a team that walks you through every stage of the process. From your first estimate to years of ongoing care, we make sure your experience is smooth, transparent, and worry-free.
Whether you need new hardwood installation, Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Eden Prairie, MN, our experts are here to help. Contact Timberwolf Hardwood Floors at 612-430-9595 or email timberwolfhardwood@gmail.com to schedule your free in-home estimate today.