What Is The Cost To Refinish Wood Floors

The cost to refinish wood floors varies depending on the size of the floor, the condition of the floor, the type of finish you choose, and the labor costs in your area. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to refinish wood floors is between $3 and $8 per square foot. However, the cost can range from $2 to $12 per square foot, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Size of the Floor

The size of the floor is a major factor in determining the cost to refinish it. A larger floor will require more materials and labor, which will increase the cost. For example, a 1,000-square-foot floor will cost more to refinish than a 500-square-foot floor.

Condition of the Floor

The condition of the floor will also affect the cost to refinish it. A floor that is in good condition will require less preparation, which will save you money. However, a floor that is in poor condition may require more extensive repairs, which will increase the cost.

Type of Finish

There are a variety of different finishes that you can choose for your wood floors. The type of finish you choose will affect the cost of refinishing. For example, a polyurethane finish is more expensive than a wax finish. However, a polyurethane finish will last longer and is more durable.

Labor Costs

The labor costs to refinish wood floors will vary depending on the location of your home and the experience of the contractor you hire. In general, labor costs will be higher in large metropolitan areas than in rural areas. Additionally, a more experienced contractor will typically charge more for their services.

Other Factors

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a number of other factors that can affect the cost to refinish wood floors. These factors include the following:

The presence of stairs or other obstacles
The need for repairs
The time of year
The availability of contractors

How to Save Money on Refinishing Wood Floors

There are a number of ways to save money on refinishing wood floors. Here are a few tips:

Get multiple quotes from different contractors.
Choose a less expensive type of finish.
Do some of the work yourself, such as removing the old finish.
Refinish the floors during the off-season.

Refinishing Wood Floors vs. Replacing Them

If your wood floors are in very poor condition, you may be wondering if it is better to refinish them or replace them. In most cases, it is cheaper to refinish wood floors than to replace them. However, there are some cases in which it may be necessary to replace the floors, such as if they are severely damaged or if the subfloor is rotten.