FAQ

A standard 3-bedroom home typically takes 2–4 days including sanding, coating and drying time. A lounge and hallway can often be done in a single day with water-based finishes. Bairt gives you a clear timeline at the quote stage.

Not necessarily during sanding. During coating, good ventilation helps — water-based finishes are low odour and most people can stay in other rooms or return the same evening.

Yes — the floor needs to be completely clear before work starts. Bairt will confirm exactly what needs to come out at the quote. Moving furniture is the homeowner's responsibility.

With water-based finishes, you can usually walk in socks after 2–3 hours per coat. Leave 24 hours before moving furniture back. Full cure takes 5–7 days.

All species common to Newcastle and Hunter Valley homes — Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Jarrah, Tallowwood, Brushbox, Tasmanian Oak, Cypress Pine and parquet. If you're unsure of your species, Bairt can identify it on site.

Water-based polyurethane, commercial-grade hardener finishes and hardwax oils — all in matt, satin, semi-gloss and gloss. Bairt will help you choose the right finish for your timber and lifestyle.

Yes. Custom colour matching with sample patches on your actual boards before any commitment. No guesswork.

Yes — colour-matched flexible gap filler applied before sanding for a seamless result. Particularly important for heritage and older Newcastle homes where boards have moved over the decades.

Usually yes. Deep scratches, stains and dents can often be sanded back completely. Bairt will assess at the quote and tell you honestly what's achievable.

Yes — parquet requires care because the grain runs in multiple directions. Don't let an inexperienced operator near your parquet.

Yes — full carpet and underlay removal including all staples and tack strips, leaving a clean surface ready for sanding.

HEPA-filter extraction equipment on every job captures the vast majority of dust at source. Some fine dust is unavoidable, but the impact is minimal compared to traditional sanding.

Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Hamilton, Charlestown, Glendale, Kotara, Warners Bay, Toronto, Morisset and all surrounding suburbs.

No. Bairt does every job himself — start to finish. He answers the phone, does the quote, does the work. No handoffs, no surprises.

Mild cupping from moisture variation can often be sanded flat. Severe cupping may need the moisture source addressed first. Bairt will assess this on site.

Call Bairt on 0410 642 455 or use the contact form. Free quote, no obligation.

Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment. For mopping, use a damp (not wet) microfibre mop. Avoid steam mops — the heat and moisture will damage the finish.

A pH-neutral timber floor cleaner only. Avoid vinegar, bleach, ammonia-based cleaners and anything abrasive. If in doubt, plain water with a well-wrung mop is safest.

Wait at least 2 weeks after the final coat — ideally 4 weeks. The finish needs time to fully cure. Use rugs with breathable backing only — rubber-backed rugs can trap moisture and discolour the finish.

Felt pads under all furniture legs — replace them every 6 months. No dragging furniture. Keep pet nails trimmed. A doormat at every entrance catches grit before it hits the floor.

Stilettos and damaged heels concentrate massive pressure on a tiny point — they will dent timber. Keep a shoes-off policy or use flat-soled indoor shoes.

Wipe up immediately with a dry or damp cloth. Standing water is the enemy of timber floors — even small puddles left overnight can cause white marks or swelling.

Yes — UV exposure changes timber colour over time. Some species darken, others lighten. Use curtains or blinds during peak sun hours. Rotate rugs periodically so the floor ages evenly.

Depends on traffic and lifestyle. A well-maintained residential floor typically needs a maintenance recoat every 7–10 years. High-traffic areas or homes with dogs may need it sooner.

A recoat is a light scuff and fresh topcoat — quick, affordable, extends the life of your existing finish. A full sand strips everything back to bare timber. Most floors only need a full sand every 15–20 years.

Minor surface scratches in the finish can sometimes be buffed out. Deep scratches into the timber need professional attention. Don't use DIY wood markers or wax sticks — they often make it worse.