The Quick Answer: It Depends (But Here's Why)
Yeah, I know. “It depends” isn’t exactly the straight answer you were hoping for. But hang with me—there’s a good reason for the vagueness. The time needed for hardwood floor refinishing can vary based on a few key factors, like the size of the area, the floor's condition and the specific refinishing process you go with. Generally, you're looking at anywhere from three to seven days. I know that's a pretty big range but trust me there's a method to the madness.
What Affects the Timeline?
- Size of the Area
Big surprise: bigger spaces take more time. Refinishing a small bedroom might be a weekend project, but if you're tackling an entire floor, you could be looking at a full week. A good rule of thumb? Plan for about one day per 200 square feet, including drying time.
- Condition of Your Floors
If your floors just have a few surface scratches, great! This will go faster. But if we're talking deep gouges, stains or uneven planks, brace yourself for extra sanding, repairs and prep work.
- Refinishing Method
Not all refinishing methods are created equal. Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Buffing and Recoating: Fastest method—sometimes done in a day. Perfect for floors that need a little TLC but aren’t completely wrecked.
- Sanding and Refinishing: The full-on makeover. This can take several days, especially with drying times for stains and finishes.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Finishes: Water-based finishes dry faster (like, a few hours), while oil-based finishes are more of a 'patience is a virtue' situation—think 24 hours or more per coat.
What Does a Typical Hardwood Floor Refinishing Timeline Look Like?
To give you a better idea here’s a play-by-play of what you might expect:
Day 1: Prepping and Sanding
Prep Work: Moving furniture, covering vents, taping off rooms (1–2 hours).
Sanding: Depending on the size and state of your floors, this can take 4–8 hours. If your floors are older or more damaged, expect more time.
Day 2: Staining (Optional)
Staining: If you’re changing the color of your floors, staining could take a full day. Most stains need at least 24 hours to set properly. (Patience, my friend!)
Day 3–5: Sealing and Finishing
First Coat of Finish: Applying the protective finish. Water-based finishes dry in 2–4 hours, while oil-based need a full day.
Additional Coats: Typically you’ll need 2–3 coats with light sanding between each. With drying times, this part can stretch over a couple of days.
Day 6–7: Curing and Moving Back In
Even if the finish feels dry, it still needs time to cure. Avoid heavy furniture or rugs until it's fully set—this could be a few days to a week. (I know, the wait is brutal.)
How to Avoid Refinishing Delays
Prep Ahead: Clear the room before the pros show up. Trust me this saves a ton of time.
Keep It Breezy: Proper ventilation helps finishes dry faster.
Stick to the Plan: Last-minute changes to stain color or finish type can add days to the timeline.
What’s the Damage? (Talking Costs)
I won't sugarcoat it—refinishing hardwood floors isn’t the cheapest project. Prices can vary widely, but on average, you might be looking at $3 to $8 per square foot. For a 1,000-square-foot space, that’s anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000. Ouch. Still, it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than ripping out your floors and starting over.
When Can You Walk on Refinished Floors?
You’ve made it this far, don’t ruin it now! While you can often walk on floors with socks after 24 hours, keep shoes, heavy furniture, and rugs off for at least a week to avoid any damage. When in doubt, give it a bit more time—nobody wants to see fresh scuffs or scratches.
So, What's the Bottom Line?
Refinishing hardwood floors isn’t a quick weekend project, but it’s worth the time and effort. With a bit of patience and some good planning, you’ll be enjoying those fresh, shiny floors before you know it. Whether you’re prepping your home to sell or just craving that new-floor feel, understanding the process can help you set realistic expectations.
Visit to find out more: Matte, Satin, or Gloss? Choosing the Right Finish for Hardwood Floor Refinishing | Robar Flooring
