Getting a reliable quote for flooring can be confusing. This guide will help you understand the costs.
The cost depends on factors like wood type, total area, and finish. Prices typically range from $3 to $8 per square foot.
Key Summary
- Hardwood floor refinishing costs typically range from $3 to $8 per square foot.
- The total project cost depends on floor size, wood type, finish type, and condition.
- Most homeowners pay between $3,000 and $10,000 for refinishing per 1,000 sq ft.
- Labor is the biggest cost factor, ranging from $2.50 to $7 per sq ft.
- Professional refinishing can save 50% to 75% compared to full floor replacement.
Hardwood Floor Refinishing Cost Breakdown
We have different flooring options for your home. Choose from Carpet, Hardwood, Luxury Vinyl, and Laminate. Visit our showroom to see samples.
Financing options are available to help with your flooring purchase. Contact us for more details.
Cost by Flooring Type
The type of hardwood flooring you choose can change the cost. Some woods are easier to work with, while others need more attention.
Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood is simple to sand and can be done many times. Oak and maple are common choices.
Cost: $3 to $7 per sq ft.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood can be sanded if the top layer is thick enough. Thicker ones allow at least one sanding.
Cost: $4 to $8 per sq ft.
Exotic Woods
Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry or mahogany are lovely but might need special care, which can cost more.
Cost: $5 to $10 per sq ft.
| Flooring Type | Cost per Sq Ft |
| Solid Hardwood | $3 – $7 |
| Engineered Hardwood | $4 – $8 |
| Exotic Woods | $5 – $10 |
Cost by Finish Type
The finish you pick will change the overall cost.
Matte Finish
Has a modern, dull look. Simple to keep clean.
Cost: $0.50 to $1.50 per sq ft.
Semi-gloss Finish
Gives a nice shine without too much dust or scratches.
Cost: $0.75 to $2 per sq ft.
Gloss Finish
Has a bright, shiny look but may scratch easily.
Cost: $1 to $2.50 per sq ft.
Stained Finishes
Changing wood color or adding stains can raise costs.
Cost: $1.50 to $3 per sq ft.
| Finish Type | Cost per Sq Ft |
| Matte | $0.50 – $1.50 |
| Semi-gloss | $0.75 – $2.00 |
| Gloss | $1.00 – $2.50 |
| Stained Finish | $1.50 – $3.00 |
Labor Costs
Labor costs are a big part of flooring expenses. Prices change based on location, contractor skill, and job difficulty.
- Standard labor rates: $2.50 to $7 per sq ft
- Hourly rates (for repairs or special requests): $50 to $100 per hour
Complex designs, special woods, or custom finishes can raise labor time and costs.
| Labor Type | Cost |
| Standard Labor Rate (per sq ft) | $2.50 – $7.00 |
| Hourly Labor Rate (for repairs) | $50 – $100 per hour |
Additional Cost Factors
Many things can change your total cost:
Floor Repairs
Fixing scratches, changing boards, or filling gaps can make labor more costly.
Moving Furniture
Some workers might charge more to move and put back furniture.
Stairs
Working on stairs needs more work because of their shape and detail.
Cost: $40 to $75 per stair.
Patterned or Inlaid Floors
Floors with designs need special care, which takes more time.
Dustless Sanding
This is a cleaner, healthier way to sand.
Additional Cost: $1 to $3 per sq ft.
| Additional Service | Typical Cost |
| Floor Repairs | Varies by damage scope |
| Moving Furniture | May add $50 – $200+ total |
| Stairs (per stair) | $40 – $75 |
| Patterned/Inlaid Floors | Custom pricing |
| Dustless Sanding | Adds $1 – $3 per sq ft |
DIY vs. Professional Refinishing
Some people try to refinish their hardwood floors themselves to save money. Doing it yourself can be cheaper for tiny areas, but bigger or tricky jobs are better with experts.
Pros and Cons
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| DIY Refinishing |
Cheaper cost Flexible timing |
Needs special tools Mistakes are easy Takes a lot of time |
| Professional Refinishing |
Experts do it well Quick and efficient May have a warranty |
Costs more than DIY |
Most people pick professional refinishing for top results and to avoid big mistakes.
How Long Does Hardwood Refinishing Take?
The time required to refinish hardwood floors depends on the size of the area, the condition of the floors, and the finish type chosen.
| Project Size | Estimated Timeline |
| Small Room (up to 500 sq ft) | 1 day |
| Medium Room (500 – 1,000 sq ft) | 2 days |
| Large Area (1,500+ sq ft) | 3 days |
Note:
- Stained finishes or custom work may add an extra day.
- Dustless sanding can sometimes speed up the process by reducing cleanup time.
Signs Your Hardwood Floors Need Refinishing
Not sure if it’s time to refinish your hardwood floors? Look for these common signs:
- Visible scratches and dents across large areas.
- Fading or discoloration from sunlight or wear.
- Gray or black stains indicating water damage.
- Worn finish where the wood looks dull or bare.
- Splintering or rough texture when walking barefoot.
- Squeaky or loose boards that suggest structural wear.
If you notice two or more of these signs, refinishing is usually recommended to protect and restore your floors.
Hardwood Refinishing Cost vs. Replacement Cost
Refinishing your existing floors is often a much smarter financial choice compared to replacing them entirely.
| Option | Average Cost per Sq Ft | Total for 1,000 sq ft |
| Refinishing | $3 – $10 | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| New Hardwood Installation | $8 – $25 (materials + labor) | $8,000 – $25,000 |
Key advantages of refinishing:
- Saves 50% to 75% compared to replacement.
- Retains the original character of your floors.
- Faster and less disruptive to your home.
- Eco-friendly — reduces material waste.
Unless your floors are severely damaged or too thin to refinish again, refinishing offers the best balance of cost and long-term value.
Ready to Bring Your Hardwood Floors Back to Life?
Choosing to refinish your hardwood floors is a smart way to restore beauty and durability without the high cost of replacement. Now that you understand the key cost factors, you’re one step closer to transforming your space. But you don’t have to tackle the process alone.
We’d love to help you through every step of the refinishing process in a free consultation with one of our flooring experts. From assessing your floor’s condition to selecting the perfect finish and understanding the timeline, our team is here to make sure you get results you’ll love for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule your free in-home flooring consultation and see if we serve your area.
