Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about how the directory works, how leads are handled, and what to expect when comparing floor sanding contractors.
What is the Floor Sanding Australia directory?
A real directory of floor sanding and polishing businesses across NSW and Australia. It covers our own network of contractor sites alongside a broader set of independently operating businesses. Each listing has a profile page with contact details, services, gallery images and a lead form.
What is the difference between floor sanding and floor polishing?
Sanding is the prep stage — stripping back old coatings to bare timber so the surface is ready for a new finish. Polishing (or coating) is the finishing stage — applying a protective layer like polyurethane, hardwax oil or a penetrating seal. Most jobs involve both. Some contractors quote them as one package; others separate them. A good quote will spell out what each stage includes.
How are leads handled when I submit a contact form?
Leads submitted through the directory are captured in our database before being routed to the relevant business. We manage the initial intake — we do not pass raw contact details to third parties or lead brokers. The business you enquire with will be the one that follows up.
Are all listed businesses verified?
Not all of them. Listings marked Verified have been reviewed by our team or confirmed through our network. Our network listings (marked "Our network") are businesses we operate or manage directly. Other directory entries are listed in good faith from available public information — you should still do your own checks before booking.
Why are there Bona-certified contractors in the directory?
Outside our core local regions — Newcastle, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Hunter Valley — we use Bona Australia certified contractor data to extend national coverage. This helps the directory be useful for people in other states before we have direct relationships with businesses in those areas.
Can I get a free quote through the directory?
The lead forms on each listing page are the right starting point. Fill in where the job is, what condition the floor is in, what you are hoping to achieve and when you need it done. A detailed enquiry gets a more useful response. Most businesses will quote for free after a site visit or based on photos and measurements you supply.
What floor finishes do contractors typically offer?
Water-based polyurethane is the most common — it dries fast, is low odour and keeps the timber looking natural and light. Solvent-based (oil-modified) polyurethane can deepen the tone and was the industry standard for many years — it takes longer to cure and smells more. Hardwax oils are popular for a more natural penetrating finish, especially on European-style floors. Ask your contractor to explain which system suits your timber species, traffic level and aesthetic preference.
Does my business need to be based in NSW to be listed?
No. We are building national coverage. Businesses outside NSW are welcome to enquire about listing. Priority for featured placement currently goes to businesses in NSW regions where we have the strongest existing network.
Can a listed business have its own standalone website?
Yes. The directory is designed to complement standalone sites, not replace them. Several businesses in our network — including Phoenix Floor Sanding, Floor Star, Bay's and others — have their own sites that the directory links to directly. Being listed here drives additional search visibility without cannibalising existing traffic.
How do I know if a listing is part of your network or an independent business?
Listings with an orange border or the "Our network" badge are businesses we operate or manage. Everything else is an independent listing included to give the directory broader coverage. Network listings tend to have more complete profiles, better photography and an active lead management process.
Should I cover old timber floors with cheap flooring?
Most of the time, no. If there is a solid timber floor underneath, get a floor sander to assess it before anything goes over the top. Pulling up carpet and seeing staples and old coating does not mean the floor is ruined — it usually just needs sanding and repair.
Can solid timber floors go over a concrete slab?
Yes. Solid timber over concrete is fine when the slab is properly tested for moisture, the prep is done right, and the installation method suits the job. Concrete is not the issue. Poor moisture control and poor prep are.
What is the hardest Australian timber for flooring?
Ironbark at 14 kN Janka is the hardest commonly used Australian flooring timber. Spotted Gum (11 kN), Brushbox (9.5 kN) and Blackbutt (9.1 kN) follow. All are Class 1 or Class 2 durability. See the Timber Species guide for a full breakdown.
What Australian timber species are most popular for floor sanding?
Spotted Gum and Blackbutt are the most commonly requested Australian hardwoods. Tasmanian Oak is popular for lighter interiors. Jarrah is favoured for its rich red-brown colour and character. Cypress Pine is popular in older Queensland and NSW homes.
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