Question 1

How do I know if I have hardwood floors under my carpet?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is to pull back the carpet in a closet corner. Use pliers to pull up the metal tack strip edge, then lift the carpet and padding. If you see tongue-and-groove wood planks underneath, you have hardwood floors. Plywood or particle board means no hardwood.

Question 2

What year homes have hardwood under carpet?

Accepted Answer

Homes built before 1980 in the Atlanta metro area are very likely to have original hardwood floors under carpet. Homes built in the 1960s-1970s almost always have hardwood, while homes from the 1980s-1990s have about a 50/50 chance. Homes built after 2010 rarely have hardwood under carpet.

Question 3

Can hardwood floors under carpet be refinished?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In most cases, hardwood floors found under carpet can be sanded and refinished to look brand new. The carpet and padding are removed, tack strips pulled up, and the wood is sanded down to bare wood. Then new stain and finish are applied. The process typically takes 3-5 days.

Question 4

How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors found under carpet in Atlanta?

Accepted Answer

In the Atlanta area, refinishing hardwood floors typically costs $3-6 per square foot, depending on the condition of the wood, stain choice, and finish type. Carpet removal is usually included. Use our free cost calculator at oakerds.com/quote-calculator for a personalized estimate.

Do I Have Hardwood Floors Under My Carpet?