Hardwood floors add timeless beauty and warmth to any home, but over time, they can show signs of wear and tear. If your hardwood floors have seen better days, sanding and refinishing can restore them to their former glory. But how much does it cost to sand and refinish hardwood floors?

Read on as we break down the costs associated with this project, whether you hire professionals or tackle it yourself.

Professional Costs

Here is a breakdown of hardwood floor sanding and refinishing costs associated with hiring wood floor professionals:

1. Labor Costs

Hiring professionals to sand and refinish hardwood floors can cost $3 to $8 per square foot. This price varies depending on your location, the condition of your floors, and the job’s complexity. For a 1,000-square-foot home, you could be looking at $3,000 to $8,000 for professional services.

An Artisan Wood Floors team member sanding on-site using a dustless sanding system

2. Material Costs

Professionals typically include materials in the quoted price, but it’s essential to understand what you’re paying for. This includes:

• Sandpaper: Multiple grits are required, starting from coarse to fine.
• Stain: If you want to change the color of your floor, hardwood floor stains can range from $30 to $100 per gallon.
• Finish: Polyurethane is the most common finish, and it is available in oil-based and water-based options. Costs range from $40 to $100 per gallon.

3. Additional Costs

Wood floor professionals may also charge for the following:

• Furniture moving: Some companies include this service, while others may charge extra.
• Repairs: If significant damage or wood floor gaps exist, expect additional costs to repair hardwood floors.
• Cleanup: Dust containment systems are often used, but thorough cleanup might be an added service.

DIY Costs

Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with do-it-yourself hardwood floor sanding and refinishing:

Floor Sander Rental Guide from easiklip.com

1. Equipment Rentals

Sanding hardwood floors requires specific equipment, including hardwood floor sanders, which can be rented from most hardware stores. Here’s a breakdown of rental costs:

• Drum Sander: $50 to $80 per day
• Edge Sander: $20 to $30 per day
• Buffer: $20 to $30 per day
• Vacuum: $30 to $50 per day

For a 1,000-square-foot area, you might need these tools for 3 to 4 days, bringing the total rental cost to approximately $300 to $400.

2. Material Costs

Like the professionals, you’ll need to purchase:

• Sandpaper: Around $50 to $100 for various grits.
• Stain: $30 to $100 per gallon.
• Finish: $40 to $100 per gallon.
• Miscellaneous Supplies: Brushes, rags, and other supplies can add up to $50 to $100.

3. Safety Gear

Don’t forget safety gear, which is essential to any DIY wood floor sanding and refinishing project. Safety gear includes:

• Dust masks/respirators: $20 to $50
• Safety glasses: $10 to $20
• Ear protection: $10 to $30

Professional vs. DIY: When to Choose Each

Choosing between professional services and a DIY approach for sanding and refinishing your hardwood floors depends on various factors, including how to know what your wood floors need and when. If you feel confident knowing what your floors need, then you can move forward deciding how best to go about the project.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best option for your situation:

Photo of a floor sander from UnitedRentals.com

1. When to Choose Professionals

• Experience matters: If you have little to no experience with sanding a hardwood floor, it’s best to hire professionals. The process requires precision, time, and know-how and even small mistakes may be costly.
• Time constraints: Professional teams can complete the job faster than a DIY project. If you need your floors done quickly, hire professionals.
• Quality assurance: Professionals bring expertise and high-quality equipment, ensuring a flawless finish. If you want the best results without the hassle, hire a professional.

2. When to Choose the DIY Option

• Cost savings: The most significant advantage of DIY is cost savings. If you’re on a tight budget, doing it yourself can save you thousands of dollars.
• Flexibility: You can work at your own pace, allowing you to spread the project over several weekends if needed.
• Satisfaction: Completing a project yourself brings a unique satisfaction. DIY can be rewarding if you enjoy hands-on work and take pride in home improvement.

Steps to Sand and Refinish Hardwood Floors Yourself

Follow these steps to sand and refinish hardwood floors yourself:

1. Preparation

• Clear the room of all furniture.
• Cover vents and doorways to prevent dust from spreading.

2. Sanding

• Start with a coarse grit sandpaper (36-40) on the drum sander.
• Progress to medium grit (60-80) and fine grit (100-120).
• Use the edge sander for corners and edges the drum sander can’t reach.
• Vacuum thoroughly between the sanding stages.

3. Staining (Optional)

• Test the stain on a small area.
• Apply the stain evenly with a brush or cloth, following the wood grain.
• Wipe off excess stain and let it dry completely.

4. Finishing

• Apply the first finish coat (polyurethane) with a brush or roller.
• Allow it to dry completely, then sand lightly with fine grit sandpaper (220).
• Vacuum and apply additional coats (2-3) as needed, sanding lightly between coats.

The Cost of Sanding and Refinishing Hardwood Floors

Sanding and refinishing hardwood floors in NJ can be a substantial investment, whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. Understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision. DIY might be the best route if you’re confident in your skills and want to save money. However, if you prioritize quality and speed, hiring professionals ensures a beautiful, durable finish.

Sanding and refinishing hardwood floors will revitalize your home, making it look and feel new. By weighing the costs and benefits of professional versus DIY, you can choose the best option for your needs and budget. No matter which path you choose, the result will be a stunning, refreshed hardwood floor that enhances the beauty and value of your home.

If you’re still unsure which option is right for you, contact the NJ hardwood flooring professionals at Artisan Wood Floors to discuss your options. Call 215-515-7355 and ask for Steve!