Professional hardwood floor refinishing costs $2 to $7 per square foot or $1,200 to $2,400 total on average. Refinishing hardwood stairs costs $25 to $85 per step.

Refinishing includes sanding the surface layer to remove dings, scratches, or discoloration. After sanding, most contractors add a stain and a clear seal to protect the floor. Instead of sanding, you can lightly buff and recoat hardwood for $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot.

Hardwood floor refinishing is cheaper than the cost to install new hardwood floors, which is $6 to $15 per square foot. Floors should be replaced instead of refinished when they have substantial water damage, warping, or subfloor issues.

Refinishing hardwood floors is worth it because it increases the value of your home and may prevent costly repairs or replacements later on. Solid hardwood floors can be refinished 4 to 10 times, depending on thickness and age, before they shold be replaced. 

Homes built before the 1920s often have thinner wood flooring that shouldn't be sanded. In those cases, buffing and recoating is a better option.

Tipping floor refinishers is optional but appreciated. Most contractors are paid an hourly wage and do not expect tips. You may choose to tip $10 to $30 per person if their work exceeds your expectations.

Hardwood floor refinishing takes 2 to 6 days, depending on the home size, layout, and finish type. After refinishing:

• Wait 24 hours before walking on the floor in socks and 7 days for bare feet or shoes.
• Wait 4 to 5 days before moving furniture into the room.
• Wait 3 to 4 weeks before placing area rugs on the floor.

You should refinish hardwood floors every 7 to 10 years, especially when the floors have:

• Scratches
• Dings
• Discoloration
• Other damage

Start by searching our list of professional hardwood floor refinishers, then:

• Get at least three free estimates to compare.
• Read reviews and browse their work on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose a company that is licensed, bonded, and experienced.
• Verify their insurance, guarantees, and warranty.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before work begins.
• Avoid making large payments up front. Follow a payment schedule instead.

After asking questions and verifying their credentials, hire the best refinishing company your area.

Consider the following questions when looking for hardwood floor refinishers:

• How long have you been in business?
• Can I see a portfolio of your work?
• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
• Are you a member of the National Wood Flooring Association (NFA)?
• Do you charge for in-home estimates? If so, do you apply that to the total cost?
• What type of wood is best for my home?
• How long will the project take?
• Do you offer a warranty? If so, what does it include?
• Can you give me a written estimate and contract?