Cost of Refinishing Hardwood Floors | DIY vs Professional

Did you think about refinishing your hardwood floors? Look no further! Resurfacing the hardwood floor will bring a new look to your home, but costs are to be considered. Now, let’s dive into the cost of refinishing hardwood floors.

Firstly, you need to understand that preserving your hardwood floors is very important. It’s because overtime they get worn out and dull. With refinishing we can bring their natural beauty and strength back to normal.

Now, let’s talk about the price. Materials and labor are a few among many factors that determine the final bill. Therefore, whether you are an experienced homeowner or have just started this adventure, come with us as we explore the cost landscape of refinishing hardwood floors.

Cost of Refinishing Hardwood Floor by Material

Let’s get into the cost of refinishing hardwood floors using the material, covering the most popular ones – Bamboo, cherry, cork, maple, oak, and walnut. Every material has its own properties and price influences

Bamboo and Cherry

First of all, bamboo has an exotic look and eco-friendly image. Moving on to Cherry, characterized by its vivid red color, is handy in brightening any environment. Bamboo and Cork are about $3 to $8 per foot.

Cork and Maple

Secondly, we have Cork; it is popular because of its sustainability and cushioning properties. It is also a mid-range priced option. On the other hand, Maple has a light, modern look, and its prices are based on the grade and the finish. Cherry and Maple come in between $4 and $10.

Oak and Walnut

Next, we will look at Oak, a classic product that has a reputation for being durable and affordable. Lastly, Walnut, known for its rich dark tones and luxurious feel. however it comes at the top of the price range. The price range for Oak is typically from $2 to $8 per square foot, while that for Walnut can be between $6 and $15 per square foot.

Each material is associated with its cost factors. By considering aspects like the type of material, cost, quality, and finish, you can make purchases that are within your budget and taste.

Cost of Refinishing Hardwood Floor by Area Size

Generally, larger areas involve more materials and labor. The prices increase as one moves from small to medium or large. Moreover, contractors often calculate the cost of their services based on the size of the refinished area. Consequently, the house owners will see differing quotes due to the size of the work. Below, we give you a quick chart for better understanding.

Cost of Refinishing Hardwood by Type of Finish

Let us proceed with the cost of refinishing hardwood floors using materials starting with oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, penetrating oil, and acid-cured finish. Every recommendation has unique characteristics and cost differently according to manufacturer.

Water & Oil-based Polyurethane

Initially, oil-based polyurethane created a shiny and durable finish. It is the most expensive among the options. The transition to water-based polyurethane, commonly considered to have a low odor and quick drying, comes at a moderate price. Oil-based Polyurethane costs about $2 to $4 per square foot, while Water-based Polyurethane costs $3 to $5 per square foot.

Penetrating Oil & Acid-cured Finish

Now we came to Penetrating oil, which is loved for its natural look and simple application. On the other hand, Acid-cured finish, also known as conversion varnish, has a hard and durable surface. However, it is more expensive because of its specialized application process. Penetrating oil can vary between $3 to $6 per square foot, and acid-cured finishes often retail at $5 to $8 per square foot.

Additional Factor Affecting Costing

Many additional factors affect the overall cost of refinishing hardwood floors, and the following points are below.

Floor Condition:

The state of the existing floors can influence the final cost. Cracked or heavily worn floors can mean additional work during preparations and more labor and material costs.

Accessibility:

The accessibility of the area to be refinished also influences the pricing. Remote areas may need to be covered with specific gear or more workers, thus increasing the budget.

Labor Rates:

Local labor fees are one of the main components that determine the price. The projects in the areas with higher living costs usually have higher labor rates, affecting the overall budget.

Type of Wood:

This depends on the type of wood being refinished, which may affect the cost. Tougher woods may take more time and effort to sand and finish, resulting in a higher price.

Additional Repairs:

The total cost will rise with every additional repair requirement, including filling cracks or replacing damaged boards.

Cost of DIY Refinishing the Hardwood Floors

By going through the DIY refinishing hardwood floors price, homeowners can save a good amount of money. In this manner, professional services fees are eliminated, leading to significant savings.

Nevertheless, attention should be paid to material costs. On the budget side, you can find sandpaper, stain, and finish for about $500 if the room is 500 square feet. Renting equipment such as sanders, buffers, etc may attract extra costs, which range from $50 to $100 per day.

In addition to this, homeowners should also consider the time and effort involved since most DIY projects cover several days or sometimes even weeks. Overall, you will start with additional expenses like materials and equipment rental, but you will likely have significant savings if you choose DIY painting instead of hiring professionals.

DIY refinishing ranges between $500 and $800 for a medium-sized room on average, a budget-friendly alternative for homeowners looking to renew their hardwood floors.

Also Read: Best Polyurethane Brands For Hardwood Floors 2024

FAQs

How Long Does It Take to Refinish Hardwood Floors of 2000 Sq. Foot?

Refinishing 2000 sq. ft. of hardwood floors usually requires several days of working. First, the floors will have to be sanded and remove the existing finishes. This process can take 1-2 days, depending on the floor’s condition and the equipment utilized. Secondly, applying the stain and finish, the most time-consuming part, takes 1-2 days each. The drying time between each coat should also be considered, which adds extra time to the project. Generally, the period may finished from 4- 7 days.

Which is More Cost Effective Replacing or Refinishing a Hardwood Floor?

Some key factors will determine whether refinishing or replacing a hardwood floor is more economical. Initially, look at the condition of the floor that exists now. It may need to be replaced if it is heavily damaged or worn out.

On the other hand, refinishing is cheaper and more beneficial in terms of disruption. Additionally, consider long-term value: refinishing can lengthen the lifespan of hardwood floors, and it is a cost-effective way of solving these issues. The assessment of the current situation, resources, and the expected goal should be done to make the most reasonable fiscal decision.

When is Refinishing a Hardwood Floor Not a Good Idea?

It may not be wise to refinish the hardwood floor in certain situations. Initially, if the flooring is severely damaged or has structural problems, refinishing won’t be able to heal these issues. Moreover, if the cost of the refinishing job exceeds the value it would add to the house, other flooring options should be considered. Even so, the homeowner who plans to sell the property quickly may need more return on this investment. Consequently, these elements must be studied thoroughly.

How Often Should the Hardwood Floor Be Refinished?

Hardwood floors should be refinished regularly to retain their visual appeal and longevity. From worn to refreshed, refinishing removes scratches and revives the original shine. Often, hardwood floors would have to be sanded and refinished every 7-10 years, depending on a few factors, including the level of traffic and the extent of wear. Also, the floors should be checked frequently to determine if the refinishing is needed. In summary, refinishing a hardwood floor regularly aids in extending its lifespan and ensuring its alluring appearance.

Can Damaged Hardwood Floors Be Refinished?

Yes, you can refinished hardwood floors with minor damages. On those occasions The damaged areas are sanded down, and a new finish is applied, making the floors look as good as new. Nonetheless, it is critical to evaluate the level of malfunction and consult a specialist to decide what course of action to take. Proper care and attention in refinishing can bring damaged hardwood floors back to life.

Conclusion: Recommended Professionals

Remember, professionals have information and relevant skills to get the best results. Homeowners can utilize their experience to fill in the gaps and achieve a smooth and good finish. Also, practitioners can offer relevant advice and suggestions that meet the needs of every project. For this reason, the secret to maximizing the benefits of hardwood floor refinishing lies in cooperation with trusted professionals. This results in the floor being more resilient and beautiful for a prolonged period.

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