FLOORING
Hardwood Refinishing Cost: Bring Old Floors Back
Estimate hardwood floor refinishing cost per square foot — with the free flooring calculator.
Before you replace worn hardwood, know this: refinishing restores it for $3–$8 per sq ft — a third of replacement cost. Here's the real 2026 pricing.
THE SHORT ANSWER
The short answer
Hardwood refinishing runs $3–$8 per sq ft in 2026 ($5–$8 for dustless). Sanding adds $0.50–$3, staining $1–$3, and finish $1–$2 per sq ft. A 1,000 sq ft floor runs $3,000–$8,000.
What it costs
Sanding runs $0.50–$3 per sq ft depending on depth needed. Staining adds $1–$3. The finish coat adds $1–$2. Dustless refinishing costs $5–$8 per sq ft but saves you the cleanup nightmare.
- Sanding: $0.50–$3 per sq ft
- Staining: $1–$3 per sq ft
- Finish coat: $1–$2 per sq ft
- Full refinish: $3–$8 per sq ft
When to refinish vs replace
If the boards are sound and only the finish is worn, refinish — it buys 10-15 more years. If boards are cupped, warped or water-damaged in spots, spot-replace then refinish. If more than 30% is damaged, replace.
Try the flooring calculator
Enter the area, material and labor per sq ft to estimate the project.