Refinishing your hardwood floors can be expensive, but protecting and enhancing your home is worth the investment. To help you stay within budget, compare prices from multiple floor contractors.
Wood type and size can also impact cost. For example, oak and cherry are durable and popular with homeowners, but they may cost more to refinish than other wood types.
Sanding
Stunning hardwood floors are an excellent addition to any home, adding value. However, they can become damaged over time, and refinishing is one of the best ways to restore them.
A professional flooring contractor will use a drum sander and sandpaper with progressive grits to remove any existing coating. The cost for this part of the refinishing process depends on square footage and the type of wood used.
For instance, common woods that are durable and popular add less to the overall cost than rarer, harder types that easily scratch and have a difficult time absorbing wood stains. Additionally, if the wood has sustained water damage, it will likely require repair work before the refinishing process can begin, which adds to the total refinishing cost. This includes repairing loose floorboards and removing previously installed carpeting on the wood floors. The price for this portion of the project is usually based on an hourly rate plus material costs.
Staining
While many homeowners may not think to stain their hardwood floors, it can be a great way to make the flooring stand out. Especially for floors with a unique grain pattern like hickory or red oak, it can be a way to bring out the beauty of the floor.
Staining can also be a good way to hide scratches or discolorations that occur over time from everyday use. It’s important to note that this process is typically done with the sanding and can add an extra $3 to $8 per square foot to the project cost.
Lastly, it would help if you chose a polyurethane finish for your refinished hardwood floors. Hardwood floor refinishing Denver can range from a water-based to an oil-based finish. Typically, the water-based polyurethane will cost less to apply since it doesn’t have an oily odor and dries quicker than the oil-based. It will also remain clear over time, whereas the oil-based polyurethane will take on a warmer color and will become yellow when applied to grays or whites.
Recoating
Over time, even with regular maintenance, hardwood floors can show signs of wear and tear. Scratches, dents and dullness are not uncommon, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. Recoating or refinishing is a way to revitalize hardwood flooring and make it look new again.
Refinishing involves sanding down the existing finish layer and then applying stain and a topcoat of polyurethane. This process can be messy and costly, so hiring a professional contractor is best. A professional will charge about $2 to $8 per square foot for labor and materials.
In addition to labor, you’ll need to pay for a drum sander or orbital sander, sanding paper in varying grits and various other supplies. The best time of year to refinish wood floors is summer since it’s less humid. Also, ask if the contractor offers dustless sanding with Bona products for an easier and quicker project so you can return to your home faster.
Cleaning
Using harsh cleaners can be expensive for homeowners who have hardwood floors. Homeowners can save money by choosing a contractor not to use these chemicals and cleaning products. They can also save by moving their furniture and helping clean up.
Refinishing usually does not include repairing cracks or holes in the floorboards. Those repairs must be made before refinishing, costing $2-$20 per square foot.
The type of wood used on the floor can also impact refinishing costs. Oak and cherry wood are common and easy for professionals, but a rare wood such as mahogany may require extra care to preserve its deep hue.
Homeowners can lower their costs by comparing estimates from multiple contractors. However, they should refrain from being tempted by bargain-basement offers since cheap companies may cut corners or make mistakes that will need to be repaired at a higher cost later on.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.