After the timber floors have had the finishing coat applied, it's generally recommended to wait for 24 hours before walking on them and at least 48 hours before returning furniture. This allows sufficient time for the finish to dry and harden, reducing the risk of marks or damage. However, for optimal results and to ensure the longevity of the finish, it's advisable to wait a full 72 hours or more before placing heavy furniture back on the newly sanded and polished floors.
These timeframes may vary depending on the specific products used, environmental conditions, and the advice provided by your flooring professional. Always follow the guidelines given by the professionals who performed the sanding and polishing, as they will have the best understanding of the specific conditions of your flooring project.