How Much Will It Cost to Refinish My Hardwood Floor?

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.