Hardwood flooring is great — until it’s got signs of wear and tear, scratches from years and years of foot traffic, and it’s lost that perfect shine it once had. You’ve probably heard all about refinishing and how it can bring your floors back to life, but how much does it actually cost? The good news is that it’s not as expensive as it would be to replace your hardwood floor altogether. It’s also a great way to switch up the feel of your space without spending a bunch of cash.
Here’s everything you need to know about the cost of hardwood floor refinishing in Brooklyn, whether it’s worth it, and if it’s something you can handle on your own.
Average Cost of Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Here, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $10 per square foot for the full refinishing process. This includes sanding, staining (if you choose to), and applying a new finish.
For a standard 200-square-foot room, that would bring your total cost to somewhere between $1,000 and $2,000. If you’ve got a larger area to refinish, the cost is obviously going to go higher.
Also Read: What Is The Difference Between Hand-Scraped And Smooth Hardwood Floors?
What Goes into the Cost of Refinishing Hardwood Floors?
While refinishing might seem like you’re just getting a new coat of paint on your hardwood floor, that’s hardly the case. Here’s what you’re actually paying for:
1. Sanding
The first step is sanding down the old finish — probably the most important part of the entire process. Sanding helps remove the wear and tear, scratches, and stains from your hardwood floor.
2. Staining
Staining is optional. If you’re looking to change the color of your hardwood floors, staining can completely transform the way your room looks. You could go darker for a dramatic effect or lighter for a natural look — the choice is yours.
3. Sealing and Finishing
The last step is to seal your hardwood floor with a protective finish. You’ll get a couple of options here, such as oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, or even a wax finish. Whatever you choose, make sure you know that it impacts both the price you pay and how long before you can finally enjoy your floors!
Factors That Affect the Cost of Refinishing Your Floors
While the per-square-foot range gives you a general idea, there are a few factors that can affect the final cost.
Here’s what you need to consider before committing to the project:
- Floor Condition: The better your floors are kept, the less work they’ll need. Deep scratches, stains, or water damage will need more sanding and repair.
- Wood Type: Some woods are harder than others, and that can make a big difference in the cost. If your floors are made of a softwood like pine, refinishing is generally easier and cheaper. But if you’ve got dense hardwoods like oak or maple, it might take a bit more effort.
- Finish Type: The type of finish you choose can also influence the cost. A high-quality polyurethane finish is more expensive, whereas a simple wax finish might be more budget-friendly.
- Size of the Area: Of course, the bigger the room, the more it’s going to cost. But if you’re refinishing multiple rooms, some contractors might offer a discount on a larger project, so always ask about package deals.
Can You Handle Hardwood Floor Refinishing On Your Own?
The big question all homeowners in Brooklyn ask themselves at one point or another during a home renovation project: Can you DIY?
DIY refinishing sounds appealing because of the potential savings, but keep in mind that it’s a lot more work than it looks.
Sanding floors properly requires proper equipment, which you most probably don’t have lying around already. Did we mention that if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s easy to make mistakes?
A bad sanding job can ruin the wood and leave the finish looking uneven. It’s also an incredibly time-consuming task, so you’re looking at days of work here.
So, for most homeowners, professional refinishing is the way to go. Professionals have the right equipment, experience, and knowledge to make your floors look perfect, and they do it quickly.
Is Hardwood Floor Refinishing Worth It?
If you’ve got hardwood floors, you already know how great they are. They add so much character and warmth to any room. But let’s be real, even the best floors need a little love and care every now and then. Refinishing them is a great way to bring back that fresh, polished look and make them shine again.
The best part?
It’s way more affordable than completely replacing your floors.
Hardwood Floor Refinishing Might Be Just What Your Floors Need!
Hardwood floor refinishing is an excellent way to restore your floors to their former, luxurious selves. If you’re ready to give your hardwood flooring a new life, reach out to Floorika Fine Hardwood today! We’ll walk you through what’s best for your floor and get you sorted in no time!
