Hardwood Floor Refinishing vs Resurfacing (Recoating): Cost, Dust, Time & Best Option

What is the difference between refinishing and resurfacing wood floors? Refinishing is the deeper reset, while resurfacing or recoat is the lighter update, to answer your question about hardwood floor refinishing vs. resurfacing. In order to fix scratches, worn finishes, and color issues before a new finish is put, refinishing removes the old top layer through sanding. Resurfacing typically entails applying a new top coat over an already good-looking floor, which is quicker and less disruptive but does not fix deeper damage. 

Refinishing is the better choice when your floor has visible scratches, worn-through finish, uneven sheen, or you want a meaningful color update. Resurfacing or recoating is the better choice when the wood itself is still in good condition and the main issue is a tired-looking finish layer.

Refinishing

Hardwood Floor Refinishing is typically a more extensive and time-consuming process than resurfacing, as it requires the use of specialized equipment and a certain level of skill to achieve a smooth and even finish. It is the right option when you need to remove scratches, smooth out wear, improve uniformity, or change the final look with a different stain or tone.

Resurfacing

Hardwood Floor Resurfacing is generally quicker and easier than refinishing, as it does not require the use of heavy machinery or specialized equipment. Resurfacing, often called recoating, is the lighter-touch option. However, it is important to note that resurfacing will not be able to repair any deeper imperfections in the wood, such as scratches or dents, and may not be as durable as a refinishing job. But if you're looking for cheaper way to restore hardwood floors without sanding, then resurfacing is the way to go. Resurfacing is a maintenance option, not a substitute for full refinishing when the floor is visibly damaged.

So which option is best for you? If your wood floor is in good condition, with only minor scratches or wear, hardwood resurfacing may be a suitable option. However, if your floor has more significant damage or imperfections, or if you are looking to change the color or finish of your floor, hardwood refinishing may be a better choice.

Cost, time, dust, and durability: what homeowners usually care about:

→ Cost

Refinishing is generally more expensive than hardwood resurfacing, due to the use of specialized equipment and the time and labor required to complete the process. Homeowners should prepare to spend about $5–$9 per square foot on average. However, refinishing may be a more cost-effective option in the long run, as it can extend the life of your wood floor and may be less prone to wear and damage compared to a resurfaced floor.

Moreover, according to Homeadvisor, refinishing hardwood floors costs between $1,099 and $2,660, averaging at $1,879. In contrast, hardwood floor repair, akin to resurfacing or recoating, averages $1,024, with costs typically ranging from $478 to $1,636. This initial cost difference highlights refinishing's higher upfront investment. Yet, considering refinishing's long-term benefits of extended floor life and resilience against wear, the higher expense may justify itself over time.

Sources: How Much Does It Cost To Refinish Hardwood Floors?; How Much Does Hardwood Floor Repair Cost?

→ Time

Refinishing takes longer because it requires additional preparation and work compared to resurfacing. The time required for sanding, coating, and cure windows all affect the work schedule. It should also be noted that oil-based coatings dry much more slowly than water-based systems.

→ Dust

Refinishing usually involves more dust-producing work than resurfacing because it requires a deeper sanding process. Resurfacing or recoating is lighter, so there is generally less dust. For many professional hardwood flooring companies (like Weles), dustless sanding is standard, which helps keep the refinishing process much cleaner than homeowners often expect.

→ Durability

As mentioned earlier, refinishing typically results in a more durable finish than resurfacing. This is because the sanding process removes the top layer of the wood, allowing the new finish to bond more effectively with the wood. Hardwood resurfacing, on the other hand, simply adds a new layer of finish on top of the existing surface, which may not be as durable.

→ Aesthetics

Hardwood refinishing allows for more flexibility in terms of the appearance of your wood floor. By sanding down the surface, you can choose to apply a different color or finish to your floor, giving you the opportunity to completely transform the look of your space. With resurfacing, you are limited to the appearance of the existing floor, as the new layer of finish will not be able to hide any underlying imperfections or change the color of the wood.

→ Level of Disruption

Both refinishing and resurfacing can be disruptive processes, as they involve sanding and applying finishes to your wood floor. However, refinishing is typically more disruptive, as it requires the use of heavy machinery and may take longer to complete. Resurfacing is generally a quicker and less disruptive process, as it does not require sanding down the surface of the wood.

Choosing Between Hardwood Floor Resurfacing and Refinishing

When refinishing is better than resurfacing

Use refinishing when:

1. the finish is worn through in traffic lanes;

2. you have visible scratches, dents, pet wear, or uneven sheen;

3. you want a stain change or a more uniform color result;

4. you want the longer-term reset rather than a shorter-term cosmetic refresh.

When resurfacing or recoating is enough

Use resurfacing or recoating when:

1. the floor is structurally sound and the wear is mostly superficial;

2. you want a faster refresh with less disruption;

3. you do not need to remove deep defects;

4. you are not trying to make a major color change.

Refinishing Pros and Cons

Resurfacing Pros and Cons

Frequently asked questions