Price to Refinish Hardwood Floors: A Comprehensive Guide (2023)

Average Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

According to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), the average cost to refinish hardwood floors ranges from $3 to $10 per square foot. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and equipment.

Table 1: Average Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Factors Affecting the Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Several factors can affect the cost to refinish hardwood floors, including:

• Type of wood: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry cost more to refinish than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Floor condition: Floors with extensive damage or scratches will require more time and materials to refinish, increasing the cost.
• Square footage: The larger the floor area, the higher the cost to refinish.
• Location: Labor and material costs vary by region, affecting the overall cost.
• Type of finish: Oil-based and water-based finishes have different costs and lifespans, influencing the overall refinishing budget.

Benefits of Refinishing Hardwood Floors

Refinishing hardwood floors offers numerous benefits, including:

• Improved appearance: Refinishing removes scratches, dents, and discolorations, restoring the floor's original beauty and luster.
• Increased value: Refurbished hardwood floors can significantly enhance the value of your home.
• Extended lifespan: Proper refinishing can extend the lifespan of hardwood floors by 10-15 years or more.
• Improved air quality: Refinishing removes allergens and dust accumulation, improving indoor air quality.
• Environmental friendliness: Refinishing is an environmentally sustainable option compared to replacing hardwood floors.

Choosing a Hardwood Floor Refinishing Professional

To ensure a high-quality refinishing job, it's crucial to choose a qualified professional. Here's how:

• Get referrals: Ask friends, family, or realtors for recommendations.
• Check credentials: Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews to assess their reputation and customer satisfaction.
• Get multiple quotes: Compare quotes from several contractors to find the most competitive price and services.
• Inspect their work: Ask to see examples of their previous refinishing projects to evaluate their craftsmanship.

DIY Hardwood Floor Refinishing vs. Hiring a Professional

While it's possible to refinish hardwood floors yourself, it's generally recommended to hire a professional for the best results. DIY refinishing requires specialized equipment, expertise, and attention to detail.

Table 2: DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Refinishing

How to Prepare for Hardwood Floor Refinishing

To prepare for hardwood floor refinishing, follow these steps:

• Clear the floors: Remove all furniture, rugs, and other items from the floors to be refinished.
• Clean the floors: Sweep or vacuum the floors to remove surface dirt and debris.
• Protect walls and baseboards: Cover walls and baseboards with plastic or painter's tape to prevent damage.
• Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to provide ventilation during and after refinishing.

Hardwood Floor Refinishing Process

The hardwood floor refinishing process typically involves the following steps:

• Sanding: The floor is sanded multiple times to remove the existing finish and reveal fresh wood.
• Cleaning: The sanded floor is thoroughly cleaned to remove dust and sanding residue.
• Applying stain: Optional step - stain is applied to change the color of the wood (if desired).
• Applying finish: Several coats of a protective finish (oil-based or water-based) are applied to seal the wood and protect it from wear and tear.
• Buffing or polishing: The final step is to buff or polish the floor to enhance its shine and smoothness.

Maintenance for Refinished Hardwood Floors

Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of your refinished hardwood floors:

• Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum floors regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Use a damp mop: For deeper cleaning, use a damp mop with a neutral pH cleaner. Avoid excessive moisture.
• Protect from spills: Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Use floor mats: Place mats under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
• Trim pet nails: Keep pet nails trimmed to minimize scratches.

Innovative Application: Hardwood Floor Rejuvenation

For floors that don't require a full refinishing, consider hardwood floor rejuvenation. This process involves cleaning, polishing, and applying a protective finish, restoring the floor's luster without the need for sanding.

FAQs About Hardwood Floor Refinishing

1. How often should hardwood floors be refinished?

The frequency depends on traffic and wear patterns. Typically, refinishing is needed every 5-15 years.

2. Is refinishing hardwood floors a DIY project?

While possible, DIY refinishing requires experience and specialized equipment. Hiring a professional is recommended for optimal results.

3. Can hardwood floors be refinished multiple times?

Yes, hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times. However, excessive sanding can reduce the lifespan of the wood.

4. What types of finish are available for hardwood floors?

Common finishes include oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, and penetrating oil. Each type has its unique advantages and durability.

5. What is the latest trend in hardwood floor refinishing?

Matte and natural finishes are gaining popularity, offering a more contemporary and organic aesthetic.

6. Can I refinish hardwood floors over laminate?

No, it is not possible to refinish hardwood floors over laminate flooring.

7. What is the average lifespan of refinished hardwood floors?

With proper maintenance, refinished hardwood floors can last for decades or even a century.

8. Is hardwood floor refinishing environmentally friendly?

Yes, refinishing hardwood floors is generally considered eco-friendly as it extends the lifespan of existing floors and reduces waste compared to replacing them.

Table 3: Refinishing Costs for Different Room Sizes

Table 4: Estimated Refinishing Costs Based on Floor Condition