What do we do with our kitchen appliances/washer dryer?

Do Appliances Need to Be Removed for Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Cleveland, Ohio?

This is a very common question we get from homeowners throughout Cleveland, Ohio and surrounding suburbs.

The answer: it depends on your expectations and future plans. We typically offer two options and guide you toward what works best for your home and family.

Option 1: Leave Appliances in Place (Most Common)

Most of our hardwood floor refinishing projects in Cleveland are completed with appliances left in place.

In these cases, we:

• Sand tightly up to appliances

• Often reach 5–6 inches underneath using low-profile equipment

• Make it visually unnoticeable that appliances were not removed

Appliance-specific notes:

• Dishwashers: Usually stay in place—we sand right up to the kickplate

• Refrigerators: Sometimes boxed into cabinets; if there’s space, we may pull them out briefly (especially if changing stain color)

• Stoves: Often left in place unless future replacement is planned

If you are not changing the floor color, leaving appliances in place typically blends in very well.

Option 2: Remove Appliances (Best for Future Flexibility)

If you’re:

• Replacing appliances soon

• Unsure of future appliance sizes

• Changing stain colors

• Or want the most complete finish possible

Then removing appliances before sanding is the better option.

This ensures:

• Full sanding underneath

• No exposed unfinished areas later

• Flexibility for different appliance footprints

Important: Plumbing & Gas Line Safety

For any appliances connected to water or gas lines, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed professional.

We are not certified to disconnect:

• Gas lines

• Water lines

We’re happy to recommend trusted professionals here in Cleveland, Ohio to make this process safe and easy.

What About Washers & Dryers?

Same rule applies—it depends on:

• Current footprint

• Future replacement plans

If new units may expose more flooring, it’s smart to address that now.

Avoid Costly Damage After Installation

This is a big one.

Many of our repair calls come from appliances being dragged across newly finished hardwood floors.

We strongly recommend:

• Lifting appliances into place (never dragging)

• Using protection like cardboard or Ram Board

• Taking your time during reinstallation

Protect your new wood floors—it matters.

Cleveland Hardwood Floor Experts – We’ll Guide You

Every home is different, and these decisions can feel overwhelming.

Our goal is to:

• Help you make the right call upfront

• Avoid future issues

• Deliver a clean, seamless final result

Have Questions About Your Project?

Let’s talk through your layout, appliances, and future plans.

Chris – 216.695.5660

Or visit:Pasquale Floors

We help Cleveland homeowners refinish their hardwood floors the right way—with no surprises.