How much does floor sanding and polishing cost? [2024]

If your timber flooring is scratched, faded or generally showing signs of wear and tear, floor sanding and polishing can rejuvenate its appearance and make it as good as new. But how much does floor sanding and polishing cost?

Read this guide to get ideas about:

• When is floor sanding and polishing needed?
• How much does floor sanding cost?
• How much does floor sanding and polishing cost?
• Types of floor polish finishes
• Hiring a floor sanding and polishing expert

When is floor sanding and polishing needed?

Wooden floorboards are hard-wearing, but they need maintenance to keep them looking their best. Floor sanding and polishing can repair damage, level out imperfections and restore or alter the appearance of timber flooring. Which approach you need depends on the condition of your floor.

• If your floor is generally in good condition, floor polishing can fill in minor scratches and make old flooring look fresh and new. However, it doesn't address more severe damage or signs of ageing. Professional floor polishing is recommended about once a year.

• If your timber flooring is damaged or looking tired and worn, it might need to be sanded and refinished. This involves removing the floor's existing finish so it can be replaced with a new stain or varnish. Floor sanding is generally needed every 10 years.

Local flooring specialists can inspect your floor and recommend which service is needed to revive its appearance.

How much does floor sanding cost?

Floor sanding costs range from approximately $30 - $60 per square metre (m2). The cost of floor sanding mainly depends on the state your timber flooring is in, which will determine how much work is needed. Prices start from:

• New timber flooring  -  $30 per m2
• Existing flooring in fair condition  -  $40 per m2
• Uneven, soiled or damaged flooring  -  $45 per m2

If your floor is in poor condition, you may need to pay for other repair services and materials, such as having nails counter-sunk and the holes puttied.

After sanding, a new surface stain or sealer will usually be applied, which will cost an additional $12 - $15 per m2.

How much does floor sanding and polishing cost?

The cost of floor sanding and polishing depends on the condition of your flooring and the type of finish you want. Prices per square metre range from:

• $30 - $40 per m2 for floor sanding and polishing using solvent-based polyurethane
• $35 - $45 per m2 for floor sanding and polishing using water-based polyurethane
• $35 - $45 per m2 for floor sanding and polishing using oil-based varnishes
• $55 - $60 per m2 for floor sanding and polishing using lime wash

Floor sanding and polishing costs for the average room can range from:

• Bathroom (3m2)  -  $90 - $180
• Kitchen (13.5m2)  -  $405 - $810
• Bedroom (14m2)  -  $420 - $840
• Living room (25m2)  -  $750 - $1,500

On average, floor sanding and polishing costs $1,000 - $8,000, depending on the size of your home. The cost for a 3-bedroom home is around $2,500.

Types of floor polish finishes

Different floor polishing techniques have different prices and can have differing results. The common options are:

• Solvent-based polyurethane
• Water-based polyurethane
• Oil-based varnishes
• Lime wash

Solvent-based polyurethane ($30 - $40 per m2)

This tough finish can protect flooring in more high-traffic areas of the home. While more affordable, it does contain some volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful until the finish dries.

Water-based polyurethane ($35 - $45 per m2)

Water-based polyurethane is a popular choice for medium-traffic areas in homes. The finish is low-VOC and dries quickly, so can be a good choice for families who can't leave the home while it's being polished.

Oil-based varnishes ($35 - $45 per m2)

Traditional oil-based varnishes are still the most popular choice in Australian homes. These finishes are hard-wearing, so good for busy areas, but their drawback is that they're slow drying, so you'll need to avoid the area for a while. 

Lime wash ($55 - $60 per m2)

Lime washing is a more complex and expensive technique for floor polishing, but one that produces an attractive translucent effect. This method is often used for commercial flooring.

Gloss Levels

You can also specify the gloss level you want for your floor. Most Australian homeowners choose a satin finish. This has enough gloss to make a floor sparkle, but it won't mark or stain easily. A high-gloss finish looks great when it's new, but scratches will be more noticeable than on a satin or matte finish. 

Hiring a floor sanding and polishing expert

Floor polish will only get you so far. If you want your floor to look its best, or need to repair damage, you'll need to hire an experienced professional. They have the expertise to recommend the best type of stain or sealer to use on your floor and have the knowledge and equipment necessary to give your floors an even and beautiful finish.

When you get quotes from floor sanding and polishing services near you, get their opinion on the type of finish that will suit your floors and lifestyle. Compare your quotes carefully and remember to ask for references.

Don't always go for the cheapest quote. It's better to pay a little more for sanding and polishing from a reputable company than to save a few dollars but get less-than-perfect results.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.