Wood flooring is known for its durability, but years of daily wear and tear can add up. Flooring that’s covered with scratches, dents, and discolored areas is unattractive, and can even be a source of embarrassment.
The cost to refinish wood floors is affordable for most homeowners, and it’s definitely worth it. Refinishing hardwood flooring can instantly improve a house’s appearance and make a positive impression on visitors and potential buyers.
How Much Does It Typically Cost to Refinish Wood Floors?
One of the first things homeowners wonder about is how much to refinish hardwood floors. The price depends on several factors, but it typically falls in the range of $3 to $8 per square foot. If you want to refinish the floors in your house, you’ll have to contact a few local contractors and ask them to inspect your flooring and give you estimates.
Is Refinishing Wood Floors Cheaper Than Replacing Them?
Yes. Installing new hardwood flooring can cost thousands of dollars. The cost to refinish wood floors is much lower.
Another advantage of hardwood flooring is that it can be refinished several times over its lifespan. If you plan to stay in your house for the foreseeable future, being able to refinish the wood flooring, rather than replace it, can lead to significant long-term savings.
What Factors Affect the Cost to Refinish Wood Floors?
The price of hardwood floor refinishing depends on several factors, including:
- Square footage: Contractors generally charge by the square foot, so refinishing two or more rooms will cost more than refinishing a single room. That being said, refinishing a large area can be more cost effective. As the square footage increases, contractors often charge a lower price per square foot. Since they already have workers and equipment at the house, it’s not difficult for them to refinish a larger area.
- Wood species: Some types of wood are more difficult to work with than others. That’s reflected in the price of refinishing.
- The floor’s current condition: Before contractors can give you quotes, they will have to inspect your wood flooring. When they do, they might discover other problems, such as damage to the subfloor, that they’ll have to address. That will increase the total cost of the project.
- Furniture and/or carpet removal: The room will have to be emptied before workers can refinish the flooring. Some contractors will remove furniture for a fee. If your wood flooring is currently covered by carpet, you’ll have to pay to have it removed and disposed of.
Does Refinishing Wood Floors Increase Home Value?
Refinishing your hardwood flooring is a simple way to raise your home’s value. Buyers typically find hardwood flooring desirable, and in some cases, essential. If you decide to sell your home, wood flooring that has recently been refinished will make the house more appealing to potential buyers.
Get a Quote for Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Barbati Hardwood Flooring has been providing expert wood floor installation and refinishing for Pennsylvania homeowners since 1987. A member of our team can tell you how much it will cost to refinish hardwood floors in your home. Contact us today at (484)354-8869 to get an estimate.