Hardwood Floor Sanding and Refinishing Cost
Refinishing hardwood floors is an excellent way to restore their beauty, enhance their durability, and increase the value of your home. Whether your floors are worn, scratched, or simply outdated, sanding and refinishing can bring them back to life. But before proceeding, you may wonder about the cost of hardwood floor sanding and refinishing, as well as the factors that impact it.
Why Refinish Your Hardwood Floors?
Hardwood floors are a timeless and durable flooring option, but over time, they can become scratched, dull, or discolored due to regular wear and tear. Sanding and refinishing provide an effective way to restore their beauty without the high cost of installing new hardwood floors. In addition to being a more affordable option, refinishing hardwood floors offers several benefits:
- Restores Appearance: Removes scratches, stains, and discoloration.
- Increases Longevity: Protects the wood from future damage.
- Enhances Home Value: Well-maintained hardwood floors are a major selling point for homebuyers.
- Up-to-Date Style: Refresh your floors with a new stain color or finish to match current trends and your home’s decor.
Sanding and Refinishing Process
Refinishing hardwood floors involves multiple steps to ensure a high-quality result.
Step 1: Preparation
- Remove all furniture and cover nearby surfaces to protect them from dust.
- Inspect the floor for deep scratches, nails, or damage.
Step 2: Sanding
- A professional-grade sander removes the top layer of wood, erasing scratches and stains.
- Different grit sandpapers are used: coarse for initial sanding, medium for smoothing, and fine for finishing.
Step 3: Staining (Optional)
- If changing the floor color, a stain is applied and allowed to dry before sealing.
Step 4: Sealing and Finishing
- A protective finish (oil-based, water-based, or polyurethane) is applied to enhance durability and shine.
- Typically, 2-3 coats are applied, with drying time between each coat.
Cost of Hardwood Floor Sanding and Refinishing
The cost of refinishing hardwood floors depends on several factors, including the floor condition, total area, and finish type. Here’s a general price breakdown:
| Service | Estimated Cost per Square Foot |
| Hardwood floor sanding only | $2.00 – $3.00 |
| Basic floor sanding & finishing | $2.50 – $4.00 |
| Hardwood floor staining + finishing | $3.50 – $5.50 |
| Dustless sanding | $3.50 – $6.00 |
| Oil-based finish | $2.50 – $4.50 |
| Water-based finish | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| High-end finishes | $4.00 – $7.00 |
Factors affecting cost
- Floor condition: Deep scratches or uneven surfaces require more work.
- Type of wood: Exotic woods may require specialized refinishing techniques.
- Room layout: Small, complex spaces increase labor costs.
- Finishing choice: High-quality finishes last longer but cost more.
- Surface area: The larger the space, the more competitive the price per square foot may be when hiring a professional for floor sanding.
Choosing the Right Finish
Different finishes / varnishes offer varying levels of durability, appearance, and maintenance. Here’s a comparison:
| Finish Type | Durability | Drying Time | Appearance | Maintenance |
| Oil-Based Polyurethane | High | 24-48 hours per coat | Warm, amber tone | Requires occasional buffing |
| Water-Based Polyurethane | Medium-High | 2-4 hours per coat | Clear, natural look | Easier maintenance |
| Rubio Monocoat (Oil Finish) | Medium | 24 hours | Matte, natural look | Requires periodic reapplication |
| Wax Finish | Low-Medium | 24 hours | Soft, traditional look | Needs frequent reapplication |
For homes with pets and children, polyurethane finishes are the best option due to their durability. Water-based polyurethane is preferred for its faster drying time and eco-friendliness. Prices also vary from one floor finish option to another.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While some homeowners may attempt a DIY floor refinishing project, hiring a professional ensures a smoother, longer-lasting result.
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
| Cost | Lower | Higher but better quality |
| Time | 3-5 days | 1-3 days |
| Equipment | Needs rental | Professional-grade tools |
| Risk | Higher (mistakes can be costly) | Low, expert craftsmanship |
Professional services provide better dust control, even sanding, and high-quality finishing, making it a worthwhile investment. And even if the cost of hiring a professional for floor sanding is a little higher, it’s totally worth it!
Get a quote to have the exact cost for floor sanding
As you can see, the cost of hardwood floor sanding and refinishing can vary depending on the size, condition, and finish you choose. But one thing’s for sure—hiring a professional guarantees the best results!
Want an exact price for sanding and refinishing your hardwood floors? Why not request a quote? It’s quick, free, and with no obligation! Just give us a call at 514-791-5641 or fill out our contact form here.
