Learn About the Many Factors That Determine Price Of Wood Floor Refinishing
Refinishing hardwood floors can be a wise investment, especially when you consider the major benefits of having wood floors in your home: increased property value, durability, ease of cleaning, and beauty.
When your wood floors are damaged or worn, refinishing them is certainly more affordable than a full replacement. But how much does it really cost to refinish hardwood floors? The truth is there is no short answer because there are so many variables that must be factored in.
Keep reading to learn more about those variables that professional hardwood floor refinishers will consider when they provide a free estimate.
Square Footage
The total area of the hardwood floor to be refinished is one of the biggest factors in determining cost. The more hardwoods in the home, the more it will cost to refinish.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to refinish the whole house all at once, and in fact, not all rooms will require refinishing at the same rate. For example, a low-traffic guest room floor will need to be refinished less frequently than a high-traffic entryway or living room. Spreading out refinishing over the course of a few years can make the cost of refinishing hardwood floors more affordable.
Present Condition
Your wood floor’s current condition will also influence how much it costs to refinish them. Wood floors that have sustained gouges, warping, or major scratches will require more sanding than those that just need a light sanding and finish refresh.
A flooring professional can look at your floors’ condition and determine how much sanding, staining, and sealing will be necessary to make them beautiful again.
Sometimes sections of your wood floor may be too damaged to be refinished. In this case, hardwood floor repair can supplement the refinishing project. In this case, the cost to refinish your hardwood floors may be slightly greater, especially if individual planks need replacement.
Wood Species
Certain wood species will cost less to refinish than others. Common hardwood flooring materials, like white oak, red oak, or maple, for example, usually cost less to refinish. More rare wood species in the same condition as the aforementioned species, can cost more. These more rare species include ash, American cherry, and birch, among others.
If you aren’t sure what species of wood your floors are made of, a flooring professional can identify them during a consultation.
Obstacles and Tricky Areas
If you need furniture moved or if there are complicated areas in your home, the cost to refinish your wood floors can be greater.
For example, if your home has hard-to-reach corners, lots of built-in cabinets with bases on the floor, or stairs, it will take your refinisher more time and effort to complete the work to your shared high standards.
Labor Costs For Wood Floor Refinishing
When you hire a reputable, experienced flooring company, you’ll likely pay more for labor than if you hired a local handyman to refinish your wood floors.
Expertise is incredibly valuable and can result in better looking floors. Cost often directly translates to a superior job, so make sure your budget isn’t too stringent so you can hire a true professional.
Stain and Finish Choices
The type of stain and finish you choose for your wood floors can affect the total cost of your hardwood floor refinishing project. When you work with a true professional, they’ll use only the highest quality stains and finishes.
If your wood floor requires a specialty finish, it will also likely increase the total cost of refinishing.
Specialty Tools
Should you be thinking of trying to refinish your floors yourself, you may think twice when you realize how expensive the required specialty tools and sanders are. Although you can rent most of these tools and pay only a fraction of the purchase price to do so, you’ll still be spending a significant amount of money.
And frankly, your time is money, too. People who lead busy lives rarely have time to actually complete a hardwood floor refinishing project on their own and follow every best practice to ensure optimal results. The hours you’ll spend on a DIY project could be better spent elsewhere, and a professional wood floor refinisher can finish in far less time, without having to spend extra on tools.
Find Out the True Cost of Hardwood Floor Refinishing
The cost of refinishing wood floors will vary so widely that it is impossible to determine an exact cost by scouring the internet for advice. The only way to find out exactly how much it will cost to refinish the wood floors in your home is to get a free no-obligation estimate from a local hardwood flooring professional.
FAQs
What is staining wood floors?
Staining wood floors is the process of applying a colored liquid to the surface of a wooden floor to change its appearance.
What are the benefits of staining wood floors?
Staining wood floors can enhance the natural beauty of the wood, add depth and richness to the color, and provide protection against wear and tear.
What types of stains are available for wood floors?
There are two main types of stains for wood floors: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains penetrate deeper into the wood and provide a richer color, while water-based stains dry faster and have less odor.
How do I prepare my wood floors for staining?
To prepare your wood floors for staining, you should sand them to remove any existing finish or coating, clean them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris, and apply a wood conditioner to ensure even absorption of the stain.
How do I apply the stain to my wood floors?
To apply the stain to your wood floors, you should use a brush, roller, or sprayer to evenly distribute the stain over the surface of the wood. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
How long does it take for the stain to dry?
The drying time for the stain will depend on the type of stain used and the humidity and temperature of the room. Generally, oil-based stains take longer to dry than water-based stains, and it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for the stain to fully dry.
How do I maintain my stained wood floors?
To maintain your stained wood floors, you should sweep or vacuum them regularly to remove dirt and debris, and clean them with a damp mop and a mild cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the stain or the wood.
