Unit Conversion: Linear Feet to Square Yards in Laminate

In 2026, professional hardwood floor refinishing costs between $3.50 and $7.00 per square foot ($3,500 to $7,000 for 1,000 sq ft). Basic screen-and-recoat maintenance costs $1.50 to $2.50 per sq ft. Complete sand-and-refinish (drum sanding down to bare wood, stain, and 3 coats of commercial waterborne polyurethane like Bona Traffic HD) costs $4.50 to $6.50 per sq ft.

Hardwood flooring technician operating a dustless continuous-belt drum sander on oak floor

Published 2026-03-01 · Updated 2026-03-01 · 10 min read

Screen & Recoat vs Full Sand and Refinish

• Screen & Recoat (Buffing): Lightly abrades the existing topcoat with a 150-grit mesh screen without cutting into the wood grain. Restores shine and hides minor scuffs if existing wood stain is intact.

• Full Sand & Refinish: Strips 1/32" of wood with 36/60/100-grit drum sander passes. Required for deep pet stains, gouges, water damage, or color changes.

Worked Example: 800 Sq Ft Oak Floor Complete Refinishing

Refinishing 1960s red oak living and dining room floors with custom walnut stain and 3 coats of commercial polyurethane.

Full professional refinishing restores 800 sq ft of hardwood to brand-new condition for $4,400, saving $10,000+ compared to replacement.

How many times can a solid hardwood floor be sanded?

A 3/4-inch solid hardwood floor can be completely sanded and refinished 5 to 7 times over its 100+ year lifespan.

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