Process
How to get started and expectations
Step 1: Getting an estimate
There are three ways to get an estimate. The first is to have an onsite estimator come look at your project. This is the most accurate way and recommended for non standard or larger size projects. The second is by email. Gathering a floor plan and internet data can be enough information to provide an fairly accurate proposal. The third is have an over-the-phone verbal estimate for your basic jobs. Keep in mind the second and third options are rough proposals and could change in total cost.
Step 2: Scheduling the job
Depending on our schedule, we usually need few weeks notice before starting a job. We encourage our clients to contact us as soon as they know they would like to proceed. This gives us, as well as the client, more time to prepare before starting the job.
Preparations for the client include:
· Clearing the areas of work. We need to have everything off the floors before we arrive unless stated in the proposal.
· If in a building complex or townhouse, it is recommended the homeowner notify neighbors and/or property manager of the job being done because of noise, dust, and fumes of polyurethane.
A 50% down payment is required before the starting of a job. The remaining balance is due on completion of the job.
Step 3: Working on site
Most jobs will not be completed in one day, and we insist that the client provide us with a key to the site which will be put in a lock box and remain there the entire duration of the project. Being in the service industry, we know that schedules are constantly changing, and that is why two hour time windows are often used. We have also noticed this is often inconvenient for most clients, so having a key to the site will provide us, as well as the client, the flexibility needed.
For jobs that require sanding, we will need access to a fuse panel because our sanding equipment requires a 220-volt power source. Sometimes, we can use the 30 amp outlets dedicated for electric ranges or dryers. If there is no 220-volt power available, please contact us to make alternative arrangements.
Estimated time to complete.
A typical three coat oil-base refinishing job will take approximately five days to complete. A large amount of that time is drying time and during this phase the hardwood floors will not be walkable. A timeline of an oil-base job process is as follows:
Day 1 - sand, buff, apply first coat of polyurethane
Day 2 - apply second coat of polyurethane
Day 3 - drying day
Day 4 - apply third and final coat of polyurethane
Day 5 - drying day
Day 6 - floors walkable. We recommend not moving the furniture on finished floors until 48 to 72 hours after the final coat has been applied (depending on drying conditions). This will allow the polyurethane to cured properly.
A typical four coat water-base refinishing job will take approximately three days to complete. Water-base poly dries much faster than oil-base poly, but the tradeoff is in price, with water-base poly being more expensive. A timeline of a water-base job is as follows:
Day 1 - sand, buff, apply first coat of sealer
Day 2 - buff apply first coat of polyurethane,
Day 3 - buff apply final coat
Day 4 - floors walkable and furniture can be moved in
Dry times will vary depending on drying conditions. Installation jobs will vary in time depending on size of the job. Please ask an estimator for an approximate time to completion.
We, at Boston Premier Flooring, know that time can be an issue and will recommend any steps necessary in order to get a job done as fast as possible without compromising the quality. Even though inconvenience is inevitable, minimizing it is not, and this is what we strive for. Whether you are installing or refinishing hardwood floors, we believe it should be a good experience and we do everything we can so that it is achieve
Maintenance tips
Maintenance
Wood
- Dust mop, vacuum or sweep your floor regularly. If you do sweep, we recommend soft bristles. If vacuuming, use a soft head vacuum.
- For general cleaning, damp mop your floors with a wood floor cleaner (we recommend Bona), making sure not to over-wet your floor. Using too much liquid will soak into your wood floors and cause damage.
- Make sure your tables and chairs have soft felt floor protector pads on the bottom of their legs to help prevent scratches. The felt pads must be kept free of grit, and will periodically need to be replaced.
- Use exterior walk-off mats and an area rug inside and outside your entry doors to help keep dirt out.
- Place area rugs in high traffic areas, especially in front of your kitchen sink and stove.
- Keep your pet's nails clipped.
- When moving heavy furniture or appliances, always pick them up rather than sliding it.
Even with proper maintenance, eventually your floor may become dull and worn looking. Recoating / top coating your floors is a part of maintenance that people often don't know. This will reseal your floors and adds additional years of protection without prerforming a full refinish. Maintenance is the key to the longevity of your floors.
Tile
- Dust mop, vacuum, or sweep your floor regularly. Although ceramics and stones are very durable surfaces, they still can be damaged. Keeping the floor clean of any abrasive debris will improve the appearance of the floor.
- For general cleaning, damp mop your floors with a tile floor cleaner, making sure not to over-wet your floor. Too much liquid will can also cause damage.
- If you notice grout lines becoming stained or dirty, a gentile bristle brush with grout cleaner can be used. Re-grouting is an option if cleaning doesn't work.
Contract terms
Contract terms
1. BPF is not held responsible for damaged baseboards. Expect minor scuffs and scratches with any flooring work. Precautions are taken to eliminate damages.
2. Not held responsible for any damages caused by blue painters tape. Painters tape is used to secure plastic protection to walls, trim, cabinets, doorways, etc. Please notify us if you choose not to use any plastic protection and painters tape.
3. Not held responsible for cleaning fine dust or any items affected by it. Items of concern should be moved to another location not affected by our work. Dust is to be expected and is natural with and part of any flooring work.
4. Jobsites are to be cleared of any items, materials, and debris before the schedule start date, unless stated otherwise. Clients will be charged $175 per hour for any delays.
5. Cancellations or rescheduling less than 24 hours notice from the scheduled date will be charged a fee of $400.
6. This proposal is based on our evaluation and does not include material price increases from date of proposal or additional labor and materials which may be required should unforeseen problems arise.
7. BPF warranties all workmanship for one year from the completion date.
8. Final payment is due within 14 business days of job completion. Interest of 25% APR is accumulated onwards.
9. A deposit payment is a valid acceptance of this contract/proposal.
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Signature Date