How Long Does It Take to Refinish Hardwood Floors?
26.09.2024
Reading Time ~ 14 minutes
Donatas
Table of Contents
Refinishing hardwood floors can completely transform a room, giving old, worn wood floors a fresh new look. But one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long does it take to sand and refinish floors?”
The timeline can vary depending on various factors, but understanding the refinishing process will help you plan ahead. 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 Does It Take to Refinish Wood Floors? Professional vs. DIY Refinishing
When it comes to refinishing your hardwood floors, you can choose between hiring a professional or tackling the project yourself. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your priorities—whether it’s saving time or cutting costs.
Hiring professionals like Big Bro Hardwood is the faster and more efficient route. Professionals come with experience and industrial-grade equipment, which helps them achieve smoother, more durable results.
Typically, a team can sand and refinish one room in 2–5 days, even handling all necessary repairs. They can also manage more complex refinishing projects, like the entire house, while ensuring a flawless finish.
On the other hand, DIY Refinishing of hardwood can save money, but it’s a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. A DIY project can take over a week or more, depending on your experience and the tools you have. Consumer-grade sanding equipment is less powerful, making the process slower.
Plus, you’ll need to handle any repairs and multiple coats of finish yourself, which can add to the overall time. While it’s more budget-friendly, the quality may not match a professional job, especially when dealing with larger or more damaged areas.
When deciding between professional refinishing and DIY, it often comes down to balancing time and money. Hiring professionals comes with a higher upfront cost but saves time and guarantees a high-quality finish. DIY sand and refinishing can save you money but demands significant time and effort, with potentially less polished results.
The choice is yours and depends on your goals for time, cost, and the quality you expect.
How Long Does It Take to Redo Floors? Step-by-Step Refinishing Process
Refinishing hardwood floors might seem like a big task, but when broken down into steps, it’s much more manageable. Each part of the process plays a crucial role in achieving the beautifully refinished hardwood floors you’re aiming for.
Let’s take a look at the key steps involved in refinishing, and how long each might take depending on whether you’re going the DIY route or hiring experts.
Preparation
The first step is to remove all furniture, rugs (old carpet might need a replacement), and other items from the room. If necessary, baseboards or shoe molding should be removed, and any repairs like filling gaps or fixing loose boards should be done. Old or new floors must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dust particles and any residue from previous cleaners that could interfere with the sanding process.
Sand the Floor
The sanding process is the most labor-intensive part. It involves using coarse-grit sand paper with a drum sander to remove the old finish and smooth out imperfections, followed by finer grits to prepare the surface for finishing. An edge sander is used to reach corners and tight spaces. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth surface.
Wood Floor Staining (Optional)
If you want to change your floor color, you can apply special wood stain. Make sure to carefully choose the right wood floor stain color. A darker stain can transform the look of your hardwood floors, but a light stain is also great if you like it. After applying the stain, it needs time to dry before moving on to the next step.
Applying Finish
Once the sanding process (and staining, if chosen) is complete, the finish is applied. Water-based polyurethane dries faster and may allow multiple coats in a day, while oil-based polyurethane typically takes longer between coats but provides a more durable finish. Typically, two to three coats are applied.
Final Coat and Curing
After the last coat is applied, it’s important to let the floor fully cure. Water-based poly cures faster than oil-based poly, but both need time before anything can be moved back in. We recommend waiting for the exact time that is advised by the manufacturer.
We prepared a table of how long does it take to refinish hardwood floors for a room sized between 400–500 sq ft:
| Step | DIY for 400-500 sq ft Flooring | Professional for 400-500 sq ft Flooring |
| Wood Floor Preparation | 0.5–1 day | 0.5 day |
| Sanding (depends on experience) | 3–5 days | 1–2 days |
| Staining (optional, includes drying time) | 1–2 days | 0.5–1 day |
| Applying Finish (multiple coats) | 2–3 days | 1–2 days |
| Final Coat and Curing (depending on finish) | 3–7 days | 3–7 days |
Various Factors Affecting Wood Floor Refinishing Time
Now that we’ve gone through the steps of how to sand and refinish hardwood floors, it’s clear the process can vary quite a bit in terms of time. There are several factors that can make the project faster or slower. Some of these are in your control, while others depend on the condition of your wood floors and the materials you choose.
Let’s dive into what can impact the timeline and how each factor plays a crucial role in either speeding up or extending hardwood floor refinishing.
Room Size and Layout
The size and layout of your room can significantly affect the time it takes to sand and refinish the floors. Larger rooms take more time simply because there’s more surface area to work on. A large living room with 500 square feet will take significantly longer than a small bedroom with 150 sq ft.
If your room has many tight corners, built-ins, or features like a fireplace, you will need to sand it more carefully, which can also slow things down.
So, if your room is large or has many obstacles, expect the refinishing process to take longer. Simpler layouts will naturally be faster.
How Long Does it Take to Refinish Based on Wood Flooring Condition
The condition of your floors can make or break your timeline. Almost new hardwood flooring takes way less time to refinish. If your floors have light wear—such as minor surface scratches — they’ll require less sanding and repair work.
However, wood floors that have deep scratches, dents, or water damage will need more intensive sanding and possibly repairs like wood filler or even board replacement.
Hardwood Installation
For sure if a floor has been heavily damaged by water, you might need to replace damaged boards before you can even start sanding.
In short, if your floors are lightly worn, the process will be faster. If your floors are deeply scratched or damaged, expect a more time-consuming refinishing process.
Type of Wood Floors
Different wood species take different amounts of time to sand and refinish. Hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory are dense and require more sanding passes to achieve a smooth surface.
On the other hand, softer woods like pine or fir are easier to sand and will take less time, but they are more prone to scratches and may require more careful handling. For example, sanding a dense oak floor could take twice as long as a softer pine floor, especially when dealing with large areas.
So for hardwood floor refinishing softer woods are easier. If you have harder, more durable floors, expect the process to take longer.
Existing Finish on Your Wood Flooring
The type and amount of existing finish on your floors can dramatically affect how long it takes to sand, stain and refinish them. Floors with thick layers of old polyurethane or paint can take extra sanding passes with coarse-grit sandpaper to fully strip them down to bare wood. On the other hand, floors with thin or already worn-down finishes will sand off more quickly.
If the old finish is thin, the sanding will be faster. If your floors are covered with thick layers of old finish or paint, expect to spend more time sanding.
Previous Cleaning Products Used for Your Wood Flooring
Some floor cleaning products, especially those designed to “shine” or “protect” wood floors, can leave behind a residue that makes the sanding process harder. These residues can clog sandpaper quickly, requiring more frequent sandpaper changes, which can slow down the process.
If oil-based cleaners or floor polishes have been used frequently, you may need to clean the floors thoroughly before sanding.
If your floors are free from heavy residues, sanding will go quicker. Otherwise, be ready for a longer process to remove the buildup.
Obstacles and Edges While Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Refinishing a room with lots of obstacles like built-in cabinetry, fireplaces, or intricate edges takes longer because of the detailed sanding needed around those areas.
You’ll need to use specialized tools like an edge sander, which slows down the process compared to sanding a wide, open space.
For a faster job, open spaces without obstacles are best. If your room has many edges and built-ins, prepare for extra time to handle the detailed floor sanding.
Weather and Humidity Level
Weather and the humidity level play a big role in how long it takes for the finish to dry and cure. In humid conditions, for oil-based finishes one coat can take up to 48 hours to dry, while in drier conditions, they may only need 24 hours for one coat.
Water-based finishes dry faster, even in higher humidity. Refinishing your floors during a rainy season could add days to your project, especially if you’re using oil-based finishes.
If you need to finish the project quickly, water finishes are a better choice. In fact, in most cases we don’t recommend oil-based polyurethane.
Curing Time: Water-Based Polyurethane vs. Oil-Based Polyurethane
The type of finish you choose significantly impacts the drying and curing process. Both water-based poly and oil-based poly offer great durability nowadays, but they have different pros and cons when it comes to application and drying time.
Water-Based Polyurethane for Hardwood Flooring
- Pros: Water-based poly dries faster, often allowing you to apply multiple coats in a single day. These finishes typically cure within 2–3 days, which means you can walk on the floor and move everything back in sooner. They also produce less odor and are more environmentally friendly. It’s better to always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the product you want to get.
- Cons: Water-based poly may dry faster but tends to have a thinner appearance and may need more than one coat to match the richness of oil-based poly. They also tend to be slightly more expensive.
Oil-Based Polyurethane for Hardwood Flooring
- Pros: Oil-based poly offers a rich, warm glow that enhances the wood’s natural color and grain. They are more forgiving during application and provide a longer working time, making it easier to get a smooth first coat. The thicker finish often means fewer coats are needed.
- Cons: Oil-based polyurethane takes much longer to dry and cure — often up to 7 days or more before you can safely move furniture back in. They also emit strong fumes and require good ventilation. While the durability is on par with water-based poly, the long drying time can make the overall project lengthier.
If speed is your priority, water-based poly finishes are the clear choice because they dry quickly and allow for faster project completion.
Both finishes now offer similar levels of durability, so your decision comes down to personal preference and how soon you need to use the space. But we don’t recommend oil-based polyurethane because water-based polyurethane offers way more today.
Considering the variables mentioned, like the condition of the hardwood floor and the sanding process, will help you get a better idea of how long it takes to refinish hardwood floors.
Maintenance Tips for Refinished Hardwood Floors
After refinishing your hardwood floors, regular maintenance is essential to keep them looking beautiful for years. Here are some practical tips to maintain your wood floors and extend their lifespan:
Wait Before Moving Furniture
Once the floor is refinished, it’s important to allow the finish to cure fully before moving furniture back in. For water-based poly, this can take 2–3 days, while oil-based finishes may require 7 days. Using furniture pads or felt protectors will help prevent scratches when you do move everything back.
Regular Cleaning
Dust and dirt can act like sandpaper on the surface of your wood floors, causing scratches over time. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust particles, but make sure your vacuum has a setting for hard floors to avoid damage. Using a soft-bristled broom or microfiber mop is ideal for daily cleaning.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Harsh chemicals can dull the finish or damage the wood. Stick to gentle, wood-safe cleaners designed specifically for hardwood floors. Avoid using water, steam mops, or vinegar-based solutions, as they can cause warping and degrade the finish.
Protect from Moisture
Wood and water don’t mix well. Wipe up spills immediately and avoid using excessive water when cleaning. Consider placing rugs in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas like entryways or under the kitchen sink to prevent water damage.
Manage Humidity Levels
Fluctuations in humidity can cause wood floors to expand and contract, leading to cracks or cupping. Use a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer to keep humidity levels stable between 35% and 55%.
Rotate Rugs
To prevent uneven wear, rotate your rugs and rearrange home furnishings periodically. This helps distribute traffic evenly across the floor and prevents certain areas from wearing down more quickly than others.
Floor Refinishing Every Few Years
Even with proper care, your wood floors may need to be refinished again in the future, depending on foot traffic and usage. In high-traffic areas, refinishing every 7–10 years can keep your wood floors looking fresh. Light buffing and applying a new coat of finish can extend the time between full refinishing.
Use Area Rugs and Doormats
Placing area rugs and doormats at entry points can trap dirt, moisture, and debris before they reach your hardwood flooring. Make sure these rugs don’t have rubber or latex backing, as these materials can trap moisture and damage the finish over time.
Shoes Off Policy
Implementing a “no shoes” policy inside your home is a simple way to protect your hardwood floors. High heels and heavy boots can dent and scratch the surface, while dirt and debris from shoes can wear down the finish faster.
Furniture Protection
Heavy furniture can leave dents or scratches. Aside from using pads, consider placing rugs under heavy pieces or using casters for things that are moved frequently. Always lift and place things instead of dragging them to avoid damaging the floor. However, if the furniture is too heavy and you don’t have anyone to help, it’s important not to lift it by yourself. Your health always comes first, so seek assistance or use home furnishing sliders to move heavy items safely.
Refinishing
Refinish Hardwood Floor Faster: Pro Tips
When you’re working on refinishing a hardwood floor, there are ways to make the process quicker without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re handling small wood floors or large areas, speeding up the process is possible with the right tools and techniques.
These pro tips will help you achieve faster results while keeping your hardwood floor in great condition.
- Use a Dustless Sander. Invest in or rent a dustless sander to reduce cleanup time and speed up the sanding process.
- Opt for Water-Based Poly. It dries faster than oil-based poly, allowing you to apply an extra coat in a single day.
- Prepare in Advance. Clear the room and do any necessary repairs (like fixing loose boards) before starting the sanding process to avoid delays.
- Work in Sections. Break the job into smaller sections, focusing on one area at a time for faster progress.
- Hire a Helping Hand. Having an extra person to assist with tasks like moving items or sanding edges can drastically reduce the overall time.
- Plan for Optimal Conditions. Refinish during dry weather to speed up drying times for finishes and prevent humidity-related delays.
Should I Hire a Professional for My Hardwood Floor Refinishing Project?
Refinishing hardwood floors can be a rewarding DIY project, but it’s not without risks because of all the variables mentioned before. If you’re confident in your skills and have the right tools, you can handle the process yourself. However, if you have any doubts, it’s best to hire a professional. Mistakes like over-sanding or uneven application can be difficult to fix and could even ruin your wood floors, leading to the costly option of replacing them entirely.
At Big Bro Hardwood, we’re a family-owned business that treats your house like our own home. We take pride in delivering quality results and will do everything we can to ensure your hardwood floors are finished to the highest standard.
Free estimate
Final Thoughts
We were glad to share this comprehensive guide on refinishing your hardwood floors, and we hope the information about floor sanding and refinishing that we provided was helpful to you. If you have any doubts or need assistance, feel free to reach out to Big Bro Hardwood — we’re here to ensure your floors look their best!
Thank you for reading, and we wish you the best of luck with your refinishing project!
frequently asked questions
How long does it take to refinish 1000 square feet of hardwood floors?
Refinishing 1,000 sq ft of hardwood floors by yourself can take anywhere from 7 to 10 days. This includes time for preparation, floor sanding, applying the finish, and allowing for curing time. Sanding alone may take several days due to inexperience or less efficient tools.
Hiring professionals for the same space will generally take 3 to 5 days. Relatively new floors may take even less time. Professionals can work faster, thanks to their experience and industrial-grade equipment, with better efficiency for sanding and quicker application of finishes. Rooms more than 1000 sq ft most certainly need a professional.
How long does it take to refinish hardwood floors after water damage?
Refinishing wood flooring after water damage can take longer than usual due to the need for repairs. The damaged boards may need to be replaced or thoroughly dried before you can sand and refinish. We recommend using stain to make sure the flooring looks even.
Overall, the project can take anywhere from 5 to 10 days, depending on the extent of the damage and the size of the area. Hiring a professional may reduce the time needed for repairs and ensure proper handling of water-damaged wood in your house.
Overall rating
5
(1 vote(s))
Comments