4 min read
How to Choose a Floor Restoration Contractor: 8 Key Questions
Published on 24 Apr 2025
Restoring your floors—whether they’re wood, stone, amtico, or ceramic tile—is more than just a surface-level fix. It’s an investment in your home’s comfort, style, and long-term value.
Think of your floor as the largest design feature in your house. It frames the entire space and can either elevate your décor or quietly drag it down.
If you’ve already gathered a few quotes and are trying to decide, you might be tempted to choose the cheapest option. But there’s a big difference between price and value, and if this is your first floor restoration project, that difference isn’t always obvious.
We explore this more in our article, “Price, Value, Cost & Profit – The True Cost,” but here’s the short version:
- Pay a bit more for expert results, and you might lose a little.
- Pay too little, and the job goes wrong, and you could lose everything—time, money, peace of mind—and still be left with a floor that doesn’t fit your space or your lifestyle.
To help you make a confident and informed choice, here are eight essential questions to ask before hiring a floor restoration contractor.
1. Are They Familiar with Your Type of Floor?
A wood floor isn’t restored the same way as a marble one. Porcelain tile requires different care than terrazzo. A qualified contractor will understand these differences and have real examples of similar floors they’ve restored.
Ask them what methods they use and why. If their answer sounds vague or one-size-fits-all, it may be best to keep looking.
2. Do They Use the Right Equipment for the Job?
The right tools make all the difference. Dust-free sanders for wood, diamond grinders for stone, and pressure-regulated tools for deep cleaning—these are essentials, not extras.
It’s not just about the final look. Proper tools help protect your home during the process. When a contractor cuts corners on equipment, it often shows in the quality of their work.
3. Are They Properly Trained and Certified?
Accreditation and training matter. Look for contractors who are certified by:
- Pallmann
- IICRC
- NuLife/Klindex
- Floor Skills
Ask who trained them, when the training occurred, and whether their team is certified or just experienced. Ongoing education shows they’re serious about staying current in their field.
4. What Kind of Products Do They Use—and Why?
Not all finishes and sealers are created equal. Some companies use cheaper, DIY-grade products that may look okay at first but wear out quickly or unevenly.
At Silver Lining Floor Care, for example, we use:
- Pallmann 2K Lacquers
- Magic Oil
- Dr, Schutz PU Sealer
Each product is matched to your specific floor type and your lifestyle to ensure durability and long-lasting beauty.
5. Do They Offer a Real Guarantee?
A guarantee shouldn’t just be a line in the contract—it should mean something. Ask what happens if there’s a problem after the job is done. A reputable contractor should offer a clear, written policy that backs up their work.
We offer a 2-year guarantee on wood floor finishes (when maintained properly), and we don’t ask for final payment until you’re fully satisfied with the results.
6. Are They Running a Professional Business—or Just Taking on Jobs?
There’s nothing wrong with solo tradespeople. Many do excellent work. But what happens if they get sick, fall behind schedule, or stop responding?
We run a structured business with systems for:
- Communication and updates
- Scheduling
- Aftercare
- Ongoing support
Professionalism is about more than just the quality of the work—it’s about dependability.
7. Do They Educate You on Floor Aftercare?
The job doesn’t end when the last coat dries. Maintaining your floors properly is key to protecting your investment.
Whether it’s avoiding harsh chemicals on sealed stone or re-oiling wooden floors periodically, a good contractor will give you clear aftercare instructions and stay available for questions down the line.
8. Do They Have a Pricing Strategy—or Just Make It Up?
Some quotes seem more like guesswork than calculated analysis. That’s because sometimes, they are.
At Silver Lining Floor Care, we provide:
- Transparent, structured pricing
- Quotes tailored to your home’s materials and square footage
- Flexibility if adjustments are needed—whether that’s bundling services, changing the finish, or reducing prep work
We’re always open to creative solutions, like offering a discount if we can take photos for our portfolio or scheduling your job during a quieter period.
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Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
We understand that higher quotes can be off-putting. But don’t walk away without a conversation. Is it possible to modify the scope? Can we suggest alternatives?
We believe in honest, two-way discussions. Let’s talk and find a way to work together.
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Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Compare Prices—Compare Value
Floor restoration isn’t just about sanding and sealing. It’s about preparation, the right finishes, product knowledge, and customer support.
When comparing quotes, don’t just look at numbers. Consider the experience, the systems, and the values behind the contractor. This approach will help you choose the best contractor for your home.
