How Much To Sand And Refinish Wood Floors

The cost to sand and refinish wood floors in a 10x10 room ranges from $650 to $1,400, or $7 to $14 per square foot, on average. Wood species, stain, finish, condition of the floor, and geographic location all influence the cost. Refinishing involves sanding the old finish off the wood, staining it, and applying a new protective layer. Replacing damaged planks is often part of a refinishing project, and it will increase the overall cost by about $10 to $20 per plank.

Sanding Costs

Sanding is the most labor-intensive part of the refinishing process, and it accounts for about 50% of the total cost. The cost to sand a wood floor ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the condition of the floor. A floor with minimal damage will require less sanding than a floor with deep scratches or gouges, and it will, therefore, cost less to sand.

Staining Costs

The cost to stain a wood floor ranges from $1 to $3 per square foot. The type of stain you choose will affect the cost. Water-based stains are less expensive than oil-based stains, but they offer less protection from wear and tear. Oil-based stains are more durable, but they can be more difficult to apply.

Finishing Costs

The cost to finish a wood floor ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot. The type of finish you choose will affect the cost. Polyurethane is the most common type of finish, and it is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas. Water-based polyurethane is less expensive than oil-based polyurethane, but it is not as durable. Oil-based polyurethane is more durable, but it can be more difficult to apply.

Other Costs

In addition to the cost of sanding, staining, and finishing, there are other costs to consider when refinishing wood floors. These costs include:

Moving furniture: $100 to $500
Replacing damaged planks: $10 to $20 per plank
Cleaning supplies: $50 to $100

Factors That Affect Cost

The cost to sand and refinish wood floors can vary depending on several factors, including:

The size of the room
The condition of the floor
The type of wood
The type of stain
The type of finish
The geographic location

DIY Considerations

It is possible to sand and refinish wood floors yourself, but it is a challenging and time-consuming project. If you are not experienced in woodworking, it is best to hire a professional. The cost of professional refinishing will vary depending on the factors listed above, but you can expect to pay between $7 and $14 per square foot.