Donatas

53 articles

My name is Donatas. 41 year old, born in Lithuania. I have finished two university degrees – building construction and later on Medical degree, which lead me to become a flooring refinishing Doctor. I came to the US 17 years ago, after graduating Medical University and instantly started working in floor refinishing industry. After 2 years of hard working for another company I felt in love with what I do, so I decided to start my own company. I knew, if I’m the boss, I can make my own decisions and make this industry much better. Hardwood flooring became my passion.

I also have a family, 2 wonderful kids. They get me up in the morning everyday and drives me to do amazing things.

On free time I have couple personal hobbies. Off-roading in the woods, playing pickleball and enjoying time with my family.

Can you refinish engineered hardwood? Article cover by Big Bro Hardwood

Can You Refinish Engineered Hardwood Floors?

Donatas

May 13, 2025

If you try researching this topic, you might be surprised by how confusing the answers are. That’s because there are many factors to consider, and the shortest answer is “Sometimes yes, sometimes no.” In this guide, we’ll share the knowledge we’ve acquired during our 17 years of experience and discuss the details you need to understand to determine whether you can refinish engineered hardwood floors in your home.

Screen and recoat hardwood floors article cover

Screen and Recoat Hardwood Floors: Why, When, and How

Donatas

April 17, 2025

At Big Bro Hardwood, we often have clients wondering whether their floors need just recoating or full sanding. This guide will show you how to find the answer by examining your floor. We’ll also describe how to screen and recoat hardwood floors on your own and answer other popular questions.

How to polish hardwood floors cover by Big Bro Hardwood

How to Polish Hardwood Floors Without Damaging Them

Donatas

March 31, 2025

This guide will walk you through every step of polishing hardwood floors, from choosing the polish to the final maintenance tips. Bonus: top reasons why the floor still looks dull despite your best effort and which “natural polishes” damage the finish.

Can you refinish prefinished floors? Article cover

Refinishing Prefinished Hardwood Floors – Everything You Need to Know

Donatas

February 20, 2025

Can you refinish prefinished hardwood floors? Yes, but it can be a bit more complicated. Here we’ll cover when refinishing is a good option, the full process, mistakes to avoid, and whether DIY or professional option is best for you.

How Long Does Polyurethane Take to Dry

Donatas

Updated: August 22, 2025

Here we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about drying and curing times for polyurethane!

How mush refinishing hardwood floor cost 2026 - cover

How Much Does Hardwood Floor Refinishing Cost in the Chicago Area? (2026)

Donatas

Updated: July 28, 2026

Refinishing usually isn't as expensive as homeowners expect — most pay $3–$8 per square foot. Below is exactly what shapes your final price, with real costs from our Chicago projects.

Hardwood Floor Resurfacing vs Refinishing article cover

Hardwood Floor Resurfacing vs. Refinishing: Everything You Need To Know

Donatas

November 29, 2024

Do you know the difference between hardwood floor resurfacing vs. refinishing? We will explain all the details.

How many times can you refinish hardwood floors cover

How Many Times Can Hardwood Floors Be Refinished?

Donatas

October 22, 2024

Hardwood floors can't be refinished endlessly—every floor has its breaking point. Curious about where that limit lies? Let’s find out!

How Often to Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Donatas

Updated: June 04, 2026

Learn how often hardwood floors should be refinished, which signs mean it is time to act, and when a simple recoat may be enough. This guide explains timing by room, floor condition, traffic, stains, scratches, and floor type so you can protect your wood before the damage gets worse.

How Long Does It Take to Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Donatas

September 26, 2024

In this article, we’ll break down the steps, factors that affect timing, and everything you need to know for a smooth refinishing project.

How Long Should You Stay Out of House After Refinishing Floors?

Donatas

Updated: November 25, 2025

Refinishing your hardwood floors is exciting, but figuring out when it’s actually safe to sleep in the house afterward is another story.

Water popping demonstration on a hardwood floor

Water Popping Wood Floors: Step-by-Step Guide

Donatas

September 10, 2024

Thinking about staining your hardwood floor? Learn exactly what water popping wood floors means, when to use it, and how to do it step by step to get deep, even stain results without costly mistakes.