Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Understanding the Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors

Understanding the cost of refinishing hardwood floors is an important aspect of putting it all together and bringing new life to those tired and worn out floors. Here are some of the main factors that will influence the cost of refinishing your wood floors, and, hopefully, provide you some clarity and confidence for this journey.


Factors Influencing the Cost to Refinish Wood Floors:

  • Floor Size and Condition:
  • Naturally, the size of the area to be refinished is usually what determines the cost. Larger spaces naturally require more time, work and resources and the current condition of the floors plays an important role. If there are deep scratches, extensive damage or the need for repairs, the overall cost will increase.
  • Type of Hardwood:
  • Exotic or rare hardwoods may require some specialized techniques and products which will certainly impact the overall cost and many hardwood species have varying degrees of hardness and characteristics.
  • Extent of Refinishing:
  • If the goal is to simply apply a new coat of finish, the cost may be lower than a total refinishing involving sanding, staining and multiple coats of finish. The level of refinishing required will have a significant impact on the cost.
  • Repairs and Patching:
  • Contributing to the overall cost is the amount of any damaged areas that require repairs or patching. Addressing these issues during the wood floor refinishing process will ensure a smooth and flawless result.
  • Staining and Finishing Options:
  • Your choice of stain and type of finish will also move the project in a certain direction. High-quality stains and high quality polyurethane finishes, will definitely impact the cost to restain and finish your hardwood wood floors.
  • Geographic Location:
  • The cost of living and business operating expenses in your location area can also influence the overall cost. Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living may see slightly higher prices for hardwood floor refinishing.


Understanding the Pricing:

  • Square Footage Pricing:
  • Most hardwood floor refinishing professionals charge by the square foot. This pricing structure allows for an easy estimation and prices can range from $3 to $9 per square foot, depending on the factors mentioned above.
  • Full Project Pricing:
  • Some wood floor refinishing contractors may provide an overall project cost rather than a per-square-foot rate. This can be advantageous for larger projects, offering a total view of the overall cost.
  • Hourly Rates:
  • In some cases, an hourly rate for labor can be charged. This usually happens if repairs, patching or additional services are needed. Hourly rates may range from $40 per hour to $90 per hour or more, depending on the expertise of the professionals.


Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors vs. Replacement:

While the cost to refinish hardwood floors is a significant investment, it is often a more budget-friendly choice than completely replacing the flooring. Refinishing preserves the existing hardwood, avoids the cost of new materials and minimizes the disruption to your home.


Tips for Managing the Cost:

  • Prioritize Repairs:
  • Any necessary repairs need to be done during the refinishing process to prevent future issues and additional costs.
  • Clear Communication:
  • Communication is key to understanding what to expect and what the budget will be. A transparent dialogue with the contractor ensures a better understanding of the scope of work and will eliminate any misunderstanding when the job is complete. 
  • Multiple Quotes:
  • Seeking quotes from multiple refinishing professionals to compare prices and services is highly recommended. Keep in mind that cheaper isn't always better. Quality and expertise over the lowest cost is always the best way to go.
  • Regular Maintenance:
  • A regular maintenance routine for your hardwood floors should be implemented to extend their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent refinishing.


Knowing and understanding the cost to refinish your hardwood floors is key to making and informed decision. Refinishing your floors is a great and worthwhile investment that not only rejuvenates the beauty of your home or office but also adds value to your property. By knowing and considering the key factors driving the pricing structures, you can move forward with your hardwood floor refinishing journey with confidence.


Contact us, Starkey's Wood Floor Refinishing in Colorado Springs for expert advice and spectacular hardwood floor refinishing services. Let us transform your hardwood floors into a stunning masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Contact Us
Share by: