Real wood floors are going to need to be refinished eventually. That's just a nature of the product. Refinishing floors means sanding away the surface layer and signs of damage, applying new stain and sealant and, just like that, your floors and aesthetic have a fresh start.
Importance of Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Between heavy foot traffic and sun exposure, hardwood floors can take a beating. This can be tempting improvement project for avid DIYers, but this is a time where professional services really are worth it. Hardwood floor refinishing costs may make some homeowners balk, but the process is worth it in the long run.
- Restores Aesthetic Appeal: Brings back the natural colors and beauty of the wood, eliminating scratches, dents, and discoloration.
- Increases Durability: Fresh sealant reinvigorates the protective layer to guard the wood from moisture and water damage.
- Cost-Effective Alternative to Replacement: Refinishing is more affordable than installing brand-new flooring. It also checks for problems before expensive severe damage occurs.
- Boosts Home Value: Well-maintained hardwood floors are highly desirable to potential buyers, which can raise your home’s market value.
Factors Affecting Refinishing Costs
The cost of refinishing hardwood floors depends on several key factors. Most reputable professionals will give you a base price with optional additional services (dustless refinishing, or dustless sanding). Like with all project costs, the expertise of your flooring contractor, cost of labor, and your zip code will all influence the actual costs.
Square Footage of the Area
One of the primary factors influencing the cost of refinishing is the size of the area being treated. Most professionals charge by the square foot, so the larger the space, the higher the overall cost.
Cost Considerations for Square Footage (National average):
- Small Areas (Up to 200 sq. ft.): Labor fees will be the bulk of your cost here, with estimates ranging from $500 to $1,000.
- Medium-Sized Areas (200–500 sq. ft.): Average costs for this range may be between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on the complexity of the job.
- Large Areas (Over 500 sq. ft.): Larger spaces often qualify for discounts on labor, but material cost (type of finish and type of stain) will add up. Pricing for these areas typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000.
Type of Hardwood Flooring
The type of wood also plays a role in determining the refinishing cost. Certain wood species are harder to work with, requiring specialized tools or techniques that can increase the price.
- Oak: Oak is the most common hardwood used in flooring. It’s relatively easy to refinish and falls within the average cost range of $3 to $5 per square foot.
- Maple: Known for its hardness, maple requires more effort and skill to refinish, potentially increasing labor costs to $5 to $7 per square foot.
- Exotic Woods (Brazilian Cherry Wood, Mahogany, etc.): These premium materials are typically more expensive to refinish due to their unique properties and may cost between $6 and $12 per square foot.
- Bamboo: Although technically a grass, bamboo is often treated as a hardwood for flooring purposes. Refinishing bamboo flooring requires specialized equipment and techniques. If the bamboo floor is strand-woven, it is even denser and tougher than traditional hardwoods. Depending on the density and type of bamboo used in the flooring, refinishing costs range from $5 to $8 per square foot.
- Parquet Floors: Whether they are made from oak, walnut, mahogany, or any other popular choice, these floors require extra care that comes with extra cost. The complexity of the parquet flooring pattern makes it more labor intensive. This refinishing project will cost between $8 and $12 per square foot.
When planning for hardwood floor refinishing, consider factors such as square footage and wood type to get a general estimate of the total cost. The current condition (deep stains, existing moisture damage, etc) may lead to floor repairs and affect the price. That being said, professional refinishing is a worthwhile investment that will preserve your floors for years to come.
