How Much Does It Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a beautiful part of any home. They add warmth, style, and a classic charm that never goes out of fashion. But like anything that sees daily use, they can start to show their age. Scratches, dull spots, and general wear and tear can make them lose their shine.

You don’t need to replace them. Refinishing your hardwood floors can bring them back to life and make them look as good as new. Now, you might be wondering: Is refinishing expensive? What will it actually cost to give your floors a fresh start?

Here we’ll talk about the cost of refinishing hardwood floors, the things that can affect pricing, and what you should know before making a decision.

Average Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Refinishing hardwood floors usually costs between $1,000 and $2,500 overall. If you’re looking at cost per square foot, it typically falls between $3 and $8.

Keep in mind, that these are just general estimates. The actual price can change quite a bit depending on things like the size of the space, the condition of your floors, and how much local contractors charge for labor. We’ll explain these factors in more detail and help you understand what can affect the final cost.

Factors Influencing Hardwood Floor Refinishing Costs

There are many factors that can impact the cost, so it’s important to keep those in mind when planning your floor refinishing project.

Size of The Area

The size of the area you’re refinishing plays a big role in the overall cost. Bigger spaces will cost more overall, but the price per square foot often goes down. Most contractors offer discounts for larger projects. So, the more space you’re refinishing, the less you’ll typically pay per square foot.

This means that refinishing a larger area, like an entire home, can actually be more cost-effective in the long run.

Wood Types and Flooring Condition

The type of wood you have plays a big part in how much refinishing will cost. Some woods, like oak, are easy to work with, while others, like maple or exotic species, need more time, effort, and care. Prefinished hardwood also requires extra steps, making the job more complicated.

Finishes and Stains

The finish or stain you choose affects both the price and the final look of your floors. Basic finishes are cheaper, while high-end finishes and custom stains cost more but offer better durability and a unique appearance.

Labor Costs

Labor is a big part of the total cost of refinishing floors and depends on where you live, the complexity of the project, and the experience of the flooring contractor. In busy urban areas, where demand is high, labor rates are usually more expensive.

Average labor cost is about $2–$7 per square foot. This includes sanding, staining, and finishing your floors.

If your floors need extra work—like refinishing prefinished hardwood or dealing with detailed patterns like parquet flooring—expect to pay more. These jobs take more time, skill, and effort to get right.

Floor Location and Layout

Where your floors are located and the layout of the space can affect the overall cost. Open spaces are faster and easier to refinish, while tighter or more awkward areas take extra time and effort.

• Kitchens, Hallways, and Staircases. These areas are trickier because of corners, cabinets, and other obstacles. You can expect to pay 10%–20% more for labor in these spaces.
• Multiple Floors. If refinishing is needed on a second, third floor, or even higher, contractors might charge a bit extra for carrying equipment and materials upstairs.

How Much Does It Cost to Refinish Wood Floors Based on Floor Condition

The condition of your floors is another factor that affects pricing. Floors with minor wear are easier and cheaper to refinish, but floors with significant damage may need repairs first.

• Minor Repairs. Small scratches are easily removed with sanding. Some cracks or gaps can be fixed for a very small fee.
• Severe Damage. If your floors are warped, water-damaged, or have deep scratches, they may need to be replaced before refinishing. This can cost $6–$12 per square foot.

Additional Services That Affect Hardwood Floor Refinishing Cost

Sometimes, extra services are needed to get your floors looking their best or to make the project more convenient for you. These services can increase the cost of refinishing hardwood floors even though they are optional.

DIY Hardwood Floor Refinishing: Cost Breakdown

Thinking about refinishing your hardwood floors yourself? While it can save you money on hiring professionals, there are upfront costs for tools, materials, and equipment you’ll need to get the job done.

1. Equipment Rentals

You’ll need to rent specialized tools for sanding and finishing. Prices are typically charged per day.

• Drum or Belt Sander. $50–$80/day
• Edger (for edges and corners). $35–$45/day
• Shop Vacuum. $40–$180 to buy, or rent for $15–$30/day

2. Sandpaper

You’ll need multiple types of sandpaper to smooth the floors properly.

• $30–$60 for a set (coarse, medium, and fine grit)

3. Stains and Finishes

You’ll need stain to color the wood and a finish to protect it.

• Wood Stain. $20–$60 per gallon (covers about 400 sq. ft.)
• 1-Component Water-Based Polyurethane. $25–$50 per gallon
• 2-Component Water-Based Polyurethane. $40–$70 per gallon
• Oil-Based Polyurethane. $20–$45 per gallon (not recommended due to strong odors and long drying times)

4. Additional Materials

These supplies help with prepping, applying the finish, and minor repairs.

• Plastic Sheeting. $12–$25 per roll (to block dust from other rooms)
• Tape. $5–$7 per roll (to secure plastic sheeting)
• Rags and Brushes. $10–$30 (for applying stain and finish)
• Rollers and Roller Covers. $15–$25
• Nails and Wood Filler. $5–$20 (for small repairs)

5. Safety Gear

Sanding creates dust, and some finishes release fumes, so safety gear is important.

• Dust Mask or Respirator. $30–$70
• Safety Goggles. $5–$15
• Knee Pads. $10–$20

6. Cleanup Supplies

You’ll need to clean the floors thoroughly before applying any stain or finish.

• Tack Cloths. $10–$20
• Hardwood Floor Cleaner. $15–$30

For an average-sized room (300–400 sq. ft.), the cost for materials, rentals, and supplies ranges from $500–$1,000.

Keep in mind, this estimate doesn’t include the time and effort required, and mistakes could lead to additional expenses or repairs.

Wood Floor Refinishing: Regional Costs

The cost to refinish hardwood floors depends on where you live. Prices usually range from $3 to $8 per square foot, but several factors can make them higher or lower. But why do costs vary by region?

1. Labor Costs. Labor is a major expense. It’s the most part of the cost of hardwood refinishing. In expensive cities like New York or San Francisco, rates are higher. In smaller towns or rural areas, labor is usually more affordable.
2. Material Availability. If you live near manufacturing hubs or suppliers, materials may cost less.
3. Local Demand. In busy cities, contractors charge more because demand is high. In slower markets, contractors may offer discounts to get more customers.
4. Seasonality. In colder areas, prices may drop in the winter when demand slows. In warmer regions, demand stays steady, so prices don’t change as much.

How to Understand if You Need to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are tough, but even the sturdiest ones will start to show signs of wear and tear as the years go by.

• Scratches or Dents. If your floors have noticeable scratches or dents, especially ones that go past the finish and expose raw wood, it’s a clear sign they need refinishing. Heavy furniture, pets, and daily intense usage often cause this over time.
• Fading or Discoloration. Sunlight can fade hardwood, and areas that get the most use (near doorways or living spaces) can start to look dull or worn compared to less-used spots. If your floors look uneven, refinishing can bring back their original color and shine.
• Water Damage. Water exposure can cause deep stains, warping, or even mold.
• Worn Finish. The protective finish on your floors helps block moisture and dirt. If it’s worn, it basically no longer protects the wood.

Pour a few drops of water on your floor. If it beads up, the finish is still good. If it soaks in, the finish is worn, and it’s time to refinish.

• Cupping, Warping, or Splinters. Wood planks that bow inward (cupping), bend unevenly (warping), or splinter are signs of wear or moisture damage.
• Difficulty Cleaning. If your floors feel sticky, trap dirt, or are hard to clean no matter how much you mop, the finish may be too worn.
• Age of the Floors. Hardwood floors usually need refinishing every 7–10 years, depending on their use and care. If it’s been close to or over a decade, it’s worth checking if they need attention.

How to Refinish Hardwood Floors

When you understand the refinishing process, it’s easier to see what goes into the cost to refinish hardwood floors.

Preparation

Before anything can begin, the space needs to be completely cleared of furniture. If you need help moving furniture, contractors usually charge around $20–$50 per room. Nails or other protrusions in the wood are repaired to create a smooth surface, and dust barriers may be set up to protect the rest of your home from sanding dust.

Sanding

This is one of the most important steps when you refinish hardwood floors. The old finish is removed, along with scratches, dents, or imperfections, using a drum sander for large areas and an edger for corners and tight spaces. After using the floor sander, your floors will feel completely smooth and ready for a new finish. Sanding is a labor-intensive step, and you can expect it to cost about $2–$3 per square foot.

Staining (Optional)

If you want to change the color of your floors, this step happens right after sanding. Stains add character and style, but darker or custom colors require extra effort, making the refinishing process slightly more expensive. Adding a stain typically costs $1–$2 per square foot. If you’re happy with you wood’s natural color, you can skip this step and go straight to finishing.

Finishing

Once the hardwood floor is smooth and ready, a protective finish is applied. Most hardwood floor contractors recommend two or three coats for durability. Water-based finishes dry faster and look more natural, while oil-based finishes give the wood a warm, rich glow but take longer to dry. Applying the finish adds about $1–$2 per square foot to the floor refinishing project cost. This step is what gives your floors their new shine and protects them from future wear.

Drying and Curing

After the finish is applied, your floors need time to dry. Water-based finishes dry in about 24 hours, while oil-based finishes can take several days. Curing, or fully hardening, may take up to a week, so you’ll need to avoid heavy furniture or rugs until then. While there’s no added cost for this step, you’ll need to plan for a little downtime to let the floors fully set.

Want more details? Check out our full step-by-step guide on hardwood floor refinishing!

DIY or Professional Hardwood Floor Refinishing?

Refinishing hardwood floors can be a rewarding project, but deciding between doing it yourself or hiring a pro depends on your time, skills, and preferences.

If you like hands-on projects and have the time and energy, DIY refinishing can save you money on labor. It’s a great way to have full control over the process, and it can feel satisfying if you enjoy working with tools. But keep in mind that refinishing takes a lot of work. You’ll need to handle heavy equipment, deal with dust, and spend hours sanding. Mistakes can be expensive to fix, so it’s not for everyone.

If that sounds stressful, hiring a professional is probably the best thing to do. Pros bring the tools, skills, and experience to get the job done right. They take the hard work off your plate and ensure a smooth, flawless finish. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or just want beautiful floors without the hassle.

At Big Bro Hardwood, we love what we do and take pride in caring for your wood flooring. We’ll go over every detail with you before we start so there are no surprises. Plus, we offer free estimates and guarantee no hidden charges. Let us handle the tough part while you sit back and enjoy stunning, like-new floors!

What to Ask a Pro Before Refinishing Your Floors

Hiring someone to refinish your hardwood floors is a big investment, so it’s important to ask the right questions to make sure you’re picking the right contractor.

Tips to Save Money on Refinishing Your Hardwood Floors

We all like to save money when we can—there’s nothing wrong with that! With a little planning and effort, you can lower the cost of refinishing your hardwood floors without skimping on quality. Here are some tips to help you out:

Do the Prep Work Yourself

Contractors often charge extra for moving stuff, removing carpets, or cleaning up before they start. Save some cash by doing this prep work yourself. Clear the room, sweep the floors, and get rid of any obstacles to make the contractor’s job easier.

Choose Basic Finishes

If you want durability and a nice look but don’t need anything fancy, go for a standard water-based polyurethane finish. Custom stains and premium finishes like 2-component water-based options can really add to the cost to refinish hardwood floors.

Refinish Hardwood Floors During the Slow Season

Contractors are usually busier during the warmer months. If you schedule your project in the winter or early spring, you might get better rates because demand is lower.

Bundle Services

If you need other wood flooring work done (fix damaged parts, refinish hardwood floors in extra rooms) ask if the contractor offers discounts for bundling services. Bigger jobs often mean lower rates per square foot.

Get Multiple Estimates From Wood Flooring Professionals

Always get at least three quotes from different contractors. Compare their prices, services, and reviews to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Watch out for quotes that seem too low; they might have hidden fees or lower-quality work.

Dustless Refinishing

Dustless refinishing keeps your home cleaner but sometimes costs more. If dust isn’t a big concern for you, going with traditional refinishing can save money. But here’s the good news: Big Bro Hardwood doesn’t charge extra for dustless refinishing with commercial vacuums!

Don’t Refinish Hardwood Floors Too Often

Only refinish hardwood floors when it’s really needed. If they just look a bit dull but aren’t scratched or damaged, consider recoating them instead. It’s cheaper and can extend the time before you need a full refinishing job.

Also, you can save greatly if you refinish less often. First of all you need to take good care of your hardwood floors. Here is a quick checklist to help you:

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide has helped you get a clearer understanding of hardwood refinishing costs and the steps involved. No matter if you’re planning to go the DIY route or hire a professional, having this information will make it easier to make the best decision for your home.

If you have any more questions or need help with your refinishing project, feel free to reach out to us! We’re always here to assist and would love to help you bring your floors back to life.