We know that choosing the right hardwood flooring, refinishing service, or custom woodworking project comes with questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common inquiries to help you feel confident in your decision.

FAQ

Hardwood Flooring

  • Dust is a common concern, but JAE Woodworking uses a state-of-the-art dust containment system connected to all sanding machines. This drastically reduces airborne dust compared to traditional sanding methods. Additionally, we use protective plastic coverings on large furniture and recommend removing pictures or mirrors from walls to prevent dust from settling.

  • Unfinished hardwood flooring allows for a seamless, custom installation with no micro bevels or gaps, unlike prefinished flooring. This creates a smooth, uniform surface that enhances the beauty and durability of your floors. Additionally, unfinished hardwood is finished on-site, allowing for custom stain choices and a more cohesive look throughout your home.

  • The timeline depends on the project size and scope, but a standard installation typically takes 2-5 days. If refinishing is required after installation, additional drying time for stains and finishes may extend the process.

  • Yes! We specialize in seamlessly integrating new hardwood with existing flooring, ensuring a flawless transition where most people won’t be able to tell the difference. Our expert craftsmen carefully select wood species, stain colors, and finishing techniques to create a uniform, natural look.

  • Absolutely! We use top-of-the-line dustless sanding equipment, which captures airborne dust before it spreads, keeping your home cleaner and minimizing cleanup. This makes the refinishing process smoother and more convenient for homeowners.

  • We primarily use modern water-based finishes, which have low odor, dry faster, and allow you to return to your space sooner. Water-based finishes also provide excellent durability and enhance the natural beauty of your hardwood without yellowing over time.

  • The frequency of refinishing depends on wear and tear. In high-traffic areas, refinishing is typically recommended every 7-10 years, while lower-traffic areas may only need it every 15 years or more. If your floors have deep scratches, dull spots, or discoloration, refinishing can restore their original beauty.

  • Yes! While our sanding process removes most scratches and surface imperfections, deep stains or severe damage may require replacing specific boards. We ensure that any new wood blends seamlessly with the existing floor for a natural, cohesive look.

  • Hardwood floors are a timeless, durable, and eco-friendly investment. Unlike laminate and vinyl, which are single-use products that must be replaced when worn, hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished multiple times, lasting for generations. Additionally, many luxury vinyl plank (LVP) floors are not biodegradable or recyclable, making hardwood the more sustainable choice.

  • This depends on the type of finish used:

    • With our modern water-based finishes, light foot traffic can resume in as little as 2 hours.

    • Furniture should be moved back after 3-5 days to allow for full curing.

    • For premium finishes with faster curing times, some options fully cure within 3 days.

  • Yes, hardwood can be installed over concrete, including in basements. This process requires specific preparation, including moisture barriers and adhesives, to ensure a durable and long-lasting installation.

  • The key to preserving your floors is regular cleaning and maintaining stable humidity levels in your home. We recommend:

    • Using a Bona Hardwood Floor Mop Kit for safe and effective cleaning.

    • Keeping a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity, preventing wood expansion or shrinkage.

    • Unfinished hardwood allows for a seamless, custom installation with no micro bevels or gaps, creating a smooth, uniform surface. It also provides more customization options for stain and finish.

    • Prefinished hardwood has factory-applied micro bevels, which can collect dust and dirt in the small gaps between planks, making cleaning more difficult.

Staircases & Railings

  • We offer both full staircase replacements and railing updates. Whether you need new treads and risers or just want to swap out old spindles for modern wrought iron or sleek square balusters, we can customize a solution to fit your style and budget.

  • Yes! We craft in-house custom railings and newel posts, allowing us to tailor every detail to match your home’s design. Choose from stained or painted finishes and a variety of spindle styles, including traditional wood, square modern designs, and wrought iron.

  • The timeline varies depending on the scope of the project, but most staircase refinishing or railing upgrades take a few days, while full staircase rebuilds may take 1-2 weeks.

Custom Woodworking

  • Yes! We love working on unique custom projects, including game tables, modern chairs, built-in shelving, and more. If you have a vision for a handcrafted wood piece, we’d love to bring it to life.

  • Absolutely! We carefully match stain colors to ensure your new custom piece blends seamlessly with your existing décor.

General & Service Areas

  • Getting a quote is easy! Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll assess your project, discuss your options, and provide a detailed estimate.

  • JAE Woodworking proudly serves homeowners and businesses throughout Berks, Chester, and Montgomery Counties, bringing expert craftsmanship to communities such as Reading, West Chester, Downingtown, Chester Springs, Phoenixville, Glenmoore, King of Prussia, Pottstown, and beyond.

    While our core service area is southeastern Pennsylvania, we are happy to travel beyond these locations for the right project. If you’re located outside of these communities, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to discuss your needs and see how we can bring your vision to life.