How long does floor installation take? A room-by-room timeline for Philadelphia homeowners

One of the most common questions we get before an install is: how long will this take, and when can I move furniture back in? The honest answer depends on floor type, room size, and what prep work is needed. Here's a realistic timeline for each scenario.

LVP installation timeline

LVP is the fastest floor type to install. A single bedroom (200 sq ft) typically takes half a day. A full first floor (800–1,000 sq ft) takes one full day for an experienced crew. LVP has no cure time — you can walk on it and move furniture back in immediately after installation is complete.

Hardwood installation timeline

Hardwood takes longer for two reasons: acclimation and finish cure time. Before installation, hardwood planks need to acclimate to your home's temperature and humidity for 3–7 days. The install itself is similar in speed to LVP, but if the floor is site-finished (sanded and coated after install), you need 24–48 hours between coats and 3–5 days before moving furniture back.

Hardwood refinishing timeline

Refinishing is typically 3–4 days for a standard floor. Day 1: sanding. Days 2–3: coats of finish with dry time between. Day 4: final coat. You can walk on the floor lightly after 24 hours, but should wait 3–5 days before replacing furniture and 2 weeks before putting area rugs down.

What slows a project down

• Existing floor removal adds a half day to full day
• Subfloor leveling or repair can add 1–2 days
• Large staircase work adds a full day
• Intricate patterns (herringbone, diagonal) take 30–50% longer to install