Assess & prepare
Discuss the rooms, floor condition and any repairs. Confirm access, furniture removal and which adjoining surfaces need protection before work begins.
BLACK GORILLA SURFACES · PITTSBURGH AREA
Bring worn hardwood back to bare wood and plan the finish that comes next. Black Gorilla Surfaces sands hardwood floors, landings and stair treads for homeowners and trade projects.
START WITH THE WOOD
A dull finish, surface scratches or an unwanted stain color can be reasons to consider sanding. The first step is to check the floor itself: solid or engineered wood, remaining wear layer, previous sanding and any damaged boards.
Not every floor can be sanded again. Thin wear layers, deep damage or movement between boards may require a different approach. Share photos and the floor's history so we can discuss an assessment before committing to the work.
If your goal is a complete refresh, visit our hardwood floor refinishing overview to see how sanding, staining and finishing fit together.
THE SCOPE OF YOUR PROJECT
Discuss the rooms, floor condition and any repairs. Confirm access, furniture removal and which adjoining surfaces need protection before work begins.
Sanding removes the existing surface finish and prepares the wood. Floors, room edges, landings and stair treads each need attention within the agreed scope.
Discuss a natural look or a stain color, followed by the finish. Wood species affects color, and drying and cure times depend on the selected products.
REAL PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHS
These photos show the same room at two stages of our work: sanded wood and a dark color with a coat of finish applied. They document the process, rather than a fully furnished room.


PLAN YOUR ESTIMATE
We welcome inquiries from Pittsburgh and surrounding communities, including Sewickley, Wexford, Fox Chapel, Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. We confirm availability for your location and schedule with the estimate.
Coordinating a renovation or new build? See our information for contractors, builders and architects.
SANDING QUESTIONS
Sometimes, but the remaining wood wear layer and the manufacturer's guidance matter. Tell us the product if you know it. An assessment is needed before deciding whether sanding is appropriate.
Tell us exactly where our work should begin and end, including who will apply the stain or finish. We can discuss the preparation requirements and whether the requested scope is a fit.
Not necessarily. Deep stains, damage below the surface and gaps may remain or need repairs. We discuss visible issues and realistic options before the work.
Floor area, condition, repairs, room layout, stairs and the agreed finish all affect the estimate. Drying and cure time also affect when the room can be used. We discuss these details for your project.
LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR FLOORS