Floor Refinishing Services in O’fallon / St. Charles County, MO

The cost of floor refinishing varies based on factors like:

• Floor Size: Larger areas require more labor and materials, increasing overall cost, though some contractors may offer discounts for bigger projects.
• Wood Type:
  • Hardwoods like oak usually cost between $3 and $5 per square foot to refinish.
  • Pine is softer and more prone to dents, so it requires special care during restoration, and it ranges from $4 to $7 per square foot.
  • Exotic or complex woods like mahogany or maple can cost about twice as much due to labor intensity.
• Floor Condition: Floors with deep scratches or damage require more extensive sanding and repairs, increasing labor time and cost.
• Refinishing Method:
  • Light wear can be addressed with buffing and recoating, costing around $1 to $2.50 per square foot.
  • Full sanding and refinishing for heavily worn floors typically cost $2 to $7 per square foot.

For the most accurate cost, it is best to consult a professional like Footprints Floors.

No, it is not recommended to DIY a floor refinishing project. Restoring hardwood floors is a complex process, requiring specialized equipment such as drum sanders, edgers, and professional-grade vacuums to control dust. Only professionals know how to sand evenly without gouging, select the right finishes, and apply them correctly. Improper techniques can lead to uneven finishes, permanent floor damage, and costly repairs.

Between the cost of renting the proper equipment and the cost of repairing amateur mistakes, hiring a professional for floor restoration is typically less expensive than a DIY attempt.

Refinishing floors is generally less expensive and disruptive than a full replacement. Many homeowners consider refinishing a practical solution to preserve their floors while minimizing time and expense.

However, some floors may be beyond repair. Floors with thin wear layers—typically less than ¾ of an inch—risk damage from sanding. Floors refinished multiple times may have insufficient wood thickness left, making further refinishing impossible. Severe structural issues like warping, large cracks, or extensive moisture damage usually require full replacement instead of refinishing.

If your floor is too damaged for restoration, Footprints Floors will give you a free estimate for the cost of replacing it.

Hardwood floors generally require refinishing every 7 to 10 years, but this can vary depending on each home. Homes with pets or children may see faster wear. High-traffic rooms, like entryways, kitchens, and living spaces, may require more frequent refinishing.

You should avoid walking on the floors for 24 to 48 hours to allow the finish to set properly. Moving furniture back onto the floors should be delayed for at least three days to prevent marks. Maintaining good ventilation and a stable temperature will also help the finish harden evenly.