In the last century, if you had hardwood floors, it often meant you couldn’t afford carpeting. In those days, everyone with the funds put heavy piles over those burnished boards. However, times have changed, and hardwood floors are highly valued for the timeless beauty and warmth they bring to a room.
Homebuyers who stumble upon an older house with original hardwood floors consider themselves incredibly fortunate. Similarly, owners of new homes often insist that the builder installs wood flooring to enhance the elegance and charm of their living spaces. But even after years of being hidden beneath carpeting, those once-gorgeous floors can appear dull and lackluster.
If you have a passion for working with wood and possess the skills to restore these neglected floors to their former glory, then a hardwood floor refinishing business might be the perfect venture. Not only can you enjoy the flexibility of working from home, but you can also start part-time with relatively low startup costs.
The satisfaction of breathing new life into fine wood and witnessing its deep glow is truly rewarding. It is worth noting that the service is in high demand in major cities, so, for example, floor refinishing in Brooklyn can be very profitable.
Peculiarities of doing business
It’s important to note that hardwood floor refinishing is an art that requires a deep understanding of wood. You should be able to assess its health, recognize signs of moisture or dryness, and appreciate how it interacts with its surrounding environment.
Additionally, you’ll need to possess solid skills and knowledge in working with various equipment and materials, such as polyurethanes, varnishes, and stains.
To begin your hardwood floor refinishing journey, you must acquire some essential equipment. This will include a drum floor sander, an edger, a buffer with steel wool pads, and a trustworthy vehicle like a pickup truck to transport yourself and your equipment to job sites.
Your potential customers will primarily be homeowners, apartment owners, remodeling contractors, and interior designers. For effective marketing, consider targeting neighborhoods with homes and apartments built before the late 1950s, as they are more likely to have hardwood floors. Leave flyers on doorsteps or use door hangers in these areas to generate interest.
Additionally, send flyers to interior designers and contractors and follow up with phone calls to reinforce your company in their minds. Leave business cards or flyers at local hardware or home improvement stores, as they can serve as valuable referral sources.
You may also explore opportunities to have your company featured in your local newspaper’s real estate or home section. Finally, network within your community to expand your reach and build connections.
Your business can thrive and flourish by providing exceptional hardwood floor refinishing services and establishing a strong presence in your target market. So, if you’re ready to embark on this fulfilling entrepreneurial journey, let your passion for wood and craftsmanship guide you toward success.