How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors? Expert contractors reveal what also will increase the price

There is nothing quite like real hardwood flooring to elevate a home. However, with such a gorgeous finish comes regular maintenance to keep scuffs, scratches, and dullness at bay.

Refinishing hardwood floors is a great way to restore their grandeur, but it can be a costly endeavor that can vary wildly depending on the square footage, the type of wood, and the extent of existing damage.

Here, professional contractors break down how much it costs to refinish hardwood floors yourself or with expert help so you can make the best decision for your home reno.

How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors?

While the cost of refinishing hardwood flooring varies greatly depending on the finishing method and the location, Rotem Eylor, CEO and founder of Republic Floor explains that you can expect to pay about ‘$4 to $8 per square foot. This means, generally speaking, a 150 sq ft room would be between $750 to $1200.’

That being said, there are several things that impact this final price, adds Juan Reina, director of products at RIVA Spain, luxury flooring specialists.

• Square footage of the job: Larger areas will naturally cost more to refinish.
• Condition of the Floor: Floors with significant damage may require more extensive sanding or repairs before refinishing, increasing the cost.
• Staining: If you want to change the color of your floors, this will add to the cost.
• Type of Finish: Much like restoring wood furniture, the cost varies depending on the type of finish you choose for instance oil-based, water-based, or polyurethane. Higher-quality finishes tend to be more expensive.
• Additional repairs: If there are any necessary repairs, such as replacing damaged boards or addressing subfloor issues, this will increase the overall cost.’

If you want to save money on home renovations, you can attempt to refinish hardwood floors yourself, helping to save on labor costs. However, this is not a quick or easy DIY project, and is only recommended for experienced DIYers.

Juan Reina, luxury flooring expert, explains that ‘We always recommend that an experienced professional do a proper job. It requires careful preparation, the right tools, and some experience with home improvement projects. The process involves sanding the floors to remove the old finish, applying a new stain or sealant, and then finishing with a protective top coat.

‘It's a labor-intensive job that can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail, so if you're not comfortable using power tools or dealing with dust, it might be best to hire a professional.’

That being said, if you do choose to refinish the floors yourself, Kristin Hintlian, co-owner of Bonsai Builders, says ‘Renting equipment and buying supplies can cost $500-$1,500.’ However, she reminds us that ‘mistakes are costly,’ and it is still better to err on the side of caution and hire experts.

FAQs

How often should you refinish hardwood floors?

Kristin Hintlian, seasoned construction expert, says ‘Hardwood floors should be refinished every three to five years. This prevents permanent damage from scratches, stains, and wear while resealing the wood to protect it from moisture. Neglecting refinishing leads to dull, scratched wood, visible seams, and gaps between planks. Refinishing maintains beauty, prevents repairs, and retains home value.

‘Watch for scratches, stains, dull or uneven coloration, cupping or creaking boards, and gaps. These signs indicate it’s time for refinishing to restore wood and protect your investment. Refinishing hardwood floors regularly helps them last for decades.’

To prolong the lifespan of natural wood, it is important to care for and clean hardwood floors properly and regularly, helping to maintain its shiny, natural appearance in between refinishing. From honing the best way to mop hardwood floors to picking the best vacuum for hard floors, every little cleaning tip makes a difference to longevity.