Who to Hire to Refinish Hardwood Floors

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you’re wondering who to hire to refinish hardwood floors, consider a professional wood floor refinisher trained to work on solid and engineered wood. These specialists bring the right expertise and equipment to restore delicate or heavily worn floors. Some general contractors lack certifications for specific tools and materials, so choose a dedicated refinishing pro for the best results.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Floor Refinisher to Refinish Hardwood Floors

When your wood floors look dull or damaged, a professional wood floor refinisher delivers the best outcome. Pros follow methods, tools, and materials that protect the wood and extend its life. They complete the job correctly and quickly, improving appearance and even home value. You also avoid tedious, labor-intensive steps and reduce the risk of DIY damage.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a professional floor refinisher:

• Specialized equipment revives delicate or heavily worn floors

• Trained to handle solid and engineered wood floors

• Follows safe techniques, materials, and sanding sequences

• Reduces the risk of gouges and uneven sanding

• Extends floor longevity and enhances appearance

• Can support overall home value

• Completes projects faster for quicker room use

• Controls dust and manages cleanup efficiently

• Times multi-day stain and finish drying correctly

• Delivers smooth, consistent color and sheen

If your floors are especially worn or you want the best possible finish, consider hiring a hardwood floor refinishing pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Can I Hire a General Contractor to Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Most general contractors can refinish hardwood floors, though experience varies. Not all contractors carry certifications for specific tools and materials. 

If your floors are in good condition, an experienced contractor may handle the job. For delicate or heavily worn floors, a specialized wood floor refinisher is recommended to ensure a safer process and a more precise finish.

How Do Professional Floor Refinishers Refinish a Hardwood Floor?

Pros follow a proven sequence to protect the wood and achieve a smooth, durable finish:

1. Seal vents and doorways to contain dust

2. Remove base molding

3. Secure loose boards with nails and wood putty

4. Sand the field three times: 36 or 40 grit, then 60 or 80, then 100

5. Sand edges and corners in three passes

6. Vacuum thoroughly

7. Apply stain (optional)

8. Apply finish with a foam roller and let dry for 24 to 72 hours

How Much Does Refinishing a Hardwood Floor Cost?

Professional hardwood floor refinishing costs $1,890 on average, with most projects ranging from $1,100 to $2,675 based on floor size. Confident DIYers spend $500 to $1,000, primarily on tools, materials, or rentals. 

You can save if you already own equipment like a belt sander, buffer, and wet/dry vacuum. The project scope and square footage will determine the final price.