Resurfacing wood floors is a great way to revitalize your home, but understanding the costs involved is crucial. The price can vary significantly based on factors like the refinishing method, the floor’s condition, and labor costs. Let’s break down the expenses you can expect when resurfacing your wood floors.
Refinishing Method Matters
The method your contractor uses to refinish your floors significantly impacts the overall cost. Traditional refinishing is generally more affordable than dustless refinishing.
Traditional Refinishing Costs
Traditional refinishing typically ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot. This involves sanding down the top layer of your hardwood floor. A significant drawback of this method is the amount of dust it generates, which can be challenging to clean up completely and may trigger allergies.
Dustless Refinishing Costs
Dustless refinishing comes with a higher price, usually between $5 and $8 per square foot. This method significantly reduces dust by using a commercial vacuum attached to the sander, collecting dust as it’s created. This is a worthwhile investment for homeowners with allergies or respiratory issues.
The Condition of Your Flooring
Existing damage to your hardwood floors can also influence the cost of resurfacing.
If your floors have scratches or dents, your contractor will need to spend more time sanding, increasing the overall cost. More extensive damage might necessitate repairs. Flooring repairs can range from $200 to $600, depending on the extent of the damage.
If a floorboard needs replacement, hardwood floor installation costs range between $6 and $12 per square foot. For DIY enthusiasts, replacing a floorboard yourself can save between $400 and $1,400 in labor costs.
Labor Costs
Labor typically constitutes a significant portion of your resurfacing estimate, often around 80%. Expect to pay between $2 and $8 per square foot for labor. Higher prices often reflect the complexity of the flooring material, such as pine or mahogany. Areas requiring more intricate work, like stairs, tight corners, or older floors, will also increase labor costs. Hourly rates for a flooring project can range from $60 to $160.
Additional Cost Factors to Consider
Beyond the basics, several other factors can affect the final cost of resurfacing your wood floors:
Subfloor Repairs
If your subfloor is warped, sinking, or water-damaged, it may require replacement. Replacing a subfloor can cost between $3 and $10 per square foot, with additional labor costs for removing and replacing the hardwood planks.
Carpet Removal
Removing old carpet to reveal hardwood floors underneath can add to the cost. Carpet removal typically costs between $120 and $720, or $1 to $5 per square foot. DIY carpet removal is possible for around $25, but it’s labor-intensive. Hauling away the old carpet can cost an additional $75 to $150.
Furniture Moving
Some contractors offer furniture moving services for $20 to $50 per room. While you can save money by moving furniture yourself, professional teams have specialized equipment like dollies and protective wrap, as well as manpower.
Screening or Buffing
For floors with minor damage, screening or buffing might be sufficient. Buffing a hardwood floor costs between $1 and $2.50 per square foot. This process involves using a fine sanding disc to remove a thin layer of the topcoat, without affecting the wood underneath.
Sanding and Staining
Sanding is a crucial step in the refinishing process, contributing between $0.50 and $3 per square foot, depending on the severity of the damage.
Staining is optional, used to enhance the floor’s color, especially if it has faded due to sun exposure or wear. Staining adds $1 to $3 per square foot to the overall cost and requires about 24 hours of drying time.
Coating and Finishing
The final topcoat provides a protective layer against wear and tear and adds a stylish sheen. Options include oil- or water-based polyurethane, floor waxes, and acid-cured finishes. A gallon of finish typically costs between $20 and $55, although specialty finishes like penetrating oil or acid-cured finishes can be more expensive.
Conclusion
Resurfacing wood floors involves various costs, from the refinishing method to the condition of the floor and additional services like carpet removal or furniture moving. By understanding these factors, you can get a more accurate estimate and budget effectively for your floor resurfacing project, ensuring beautiful and long-lasting results.
