Hardwood Floor Refinishing CostWhat refinishing really costs — and what moves the number

Cost per square foot

National market rates for a professional sand-and-refinish run $3–$8 per square foot (NerdWallet, 2026 national figures, checked 2026-09-08). A screen and recoat — refreshing the finish without sanding to bare wood — runs $1–$2 per square foot, which is why it’s worth asking whether your floor actually needs the full job.

Worked examples

Want your own floor plugged in? The cost calculator does exactly this with your numbers.

What pushes a quote toward the top of the range

• Condition. Deep scratches, grey oxidised wood, old finish that fights the sander, or previous DIY work that has to be corrected first.
• Stain and finish choices. Natural with a clear coat is the simple end; custom stain colours, water-based finishes and extra coats add labour and product.
• Layout. Many small rooms, closets and hallways sand slower than one open space — edge work is hand work.
• Stairs. Priced per step, after we see them — treads, risers and balusters vary too much for a fair flat rate.
• Board repairs first. Water-stained or broken boards are a repair cost before refinishing starts, so the finish goes onto sound wood.

What should never move the price

Dust containment isn’t an upsell here — dust-contained sanding is how the job is done. And the quote you get is the quote you pay unless the floor hides genuine surprises, which we photograph and explain before any extra work happens.