How Much Does It Cost to Sand and Polish Timber Floors?

How Much Does It Cost to Sand and Polish Timber Floors?

If you’re thinking about restoring your timber floors, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: How much does it cost to sand and polish timber floors?

The good news is that restoring your existing timber floors can be a fantastic way to transform your home without the expense of replacing the flooring.

At Coastal Eco Floor Sanding, we believe homeowners should have a clear understanding of the costs involved before starting a project. Here’s our guide to timber floor sanding and polishing prices, the different finishes available, and what can affect the final cost of your job.

What is the average cost to sand timber floors per square metre?

Across the Mid North Coast of NSW, a useful budgeting guide for a typical timber floor sanding and finishing project is $55–$65 per square metre. Older or more damaged floors requiring extensive restoration can cost more.

Here are some general price estimates to help you plan your project.

1. Standard sanding and polishing: $55–$65 per m²

For a relatively good timber floor that needs standard sanding and a new protective finish, you can generally budget around $55–$65 per square metre.

For example, a secret-nailed Blackbutt timber floor in reasonable condition may suit this type of service.

A typical job may include:

• Sanding the timber to prepare the surface.

• Applying a three-coat water-based finish system.

• Final preparation and finishing to achieve a beautiful, durable result.

The final price depends on the floor’s condition, the selected finish and the size of the project.

2. Older floors and full restoration: $60–$90 per m²

Older timber floors often need more work to bring them back to life. They may have years of wear, scratches, old coatings, uneven boards, nail holes or previous repairs.

Depending on the condition, restoration may involve:

• Additional sanding passes to remove old coatings and improve the surface.

• Levelling and careful preparation where required.

• Punching exposed nails and filling appropriate holes and gaps.

• Additional detailing and preparation before applying the new finish.

For these more involved projects, allow approximately $60–$90 per square metre.

Every floor is different, so we recommend an assessment before confirming the price.

How much does it cost to sand and polish an average home?

To give you an idea of the overall budget, here are some examples using the standard rate of $55–$65 per square metre.

Floor area

Estimated cost

40 m²

$2,200–$2,600

60 m²

$3,300–$3,900

80 m²

$4,400–$5,200

100 m²

$5,500–$6,500

120 m²

$6,600–$7,800

These figures are indicative estimates for standard floor areas only, before any applicable minimum charge or additional work. They assume the entire measured area is included in the quoted scope.

Older floors requiring extensive restoration may cost more. Stairs, staining, repairs and other additional work may also be quoted separately.

What about stairs, nail punching and filling?

Not every part of a timber flooring project can be priced using the same square-metre rate.

Stairs: Timber stairs require considerably more detailed work than an open floor. Each tread, riser, edge and corner may need individual attention. Stair sanding and finishing are therefore usually priced separately.

Nail punching: Exposed nails need to be punched below the timber surface before appropriate filling and sanding. The amount of work depends on the flooring type, the number of nails and the condition of the boards.

Filling gaps and holes: Filling requirements vary. Small nail holes are different from large gaps between boards, and not every gap should be filled because seasonal timber movement can cause filler to crack or come loose.

Staining: If you want to change the colour of your timber floors, staining introduces extra preparation and application steps. The timber species, desired colour and selected finish all affect the process and cost.

These items should be discussed during your quotation so you understand exactly what is included.

Which timber floor finish should you choose?

The finish you choose affects the appearance, durability, maintenance requirements and overall cost of your restored floor.

Water-based polyurethane

Water-based polyurethane is a popular choice for modern timber floors. Quality systems can provide a clear, natural-looking finish without significantly changing the timber’s colour.

We often recommend a suitable three-coat system, following the manufacturer’s instructions for preparation, priming and application.

Water-based products generally have lower VOC emissions than conventional solvent-based polyurethane products, although the exact emissions depend on the formulation.

Hardwax oil

Hardwax oil is another excellent option, particularly for homeowners who appreciate the natural appearance and feel of timber.

A quality hardwax oil system penetrates and protects the timber while creating a beautiful, natural-looking surface. Depending on the product, maintenance and localised repairs can be straightforward.

At Coastal Eco Floor Sanding, we value quality products that deliver reliable results. We have found the Fiddes hardwax oil made in UK, Loba water based polyurethane made in Germany and Handleys Solvent based made in NZ to be a product line worth considering for suitable projects. We assess the timber and the client’s expectations before recommending the right system.

Solvent-based polyurethane

Solvent-based polyurethane can be a suitable option for some projects and budgets. However, these products can have stronger odours and higher VOC emissions than many water-based alternatives.

If you choose a solvent-based system, proper ventilation, suitable protective equipment and compliance with the manufacturer’s safety instructions are essential.

We will help you compare suitable options so you can make an informed decision about your home.

Why does the price vary between floor sanding companies?

There isn’t one fixed price that applies to every timber floor. Several factors influence the final quotation.

1. The size of the job

Larger projects can often achieve a lower square-metre rate because setup and preparation costs are spread across a bigger area. Smaller projects may attract a minimum charge.

2. The condition of the timber

A floor in reasonable condition generally requires less preparation than a heavily worn, uneven or damaged floor.

3. The type of timber

Different species have different hardness, grain patterns and sanding characteristics. Some timbers also require particular care when staining or applying finishes.

4. The finish you select

Water-based polyurethane, hardwax oil and solvent-based polyurethane systems have different product costs, application requirements and maintenance considerations.

5. Access and location

Travel time, distance, site access and the logistics of working at a property can affect the total price. This is particularly relevant for jobs across regional NSW.

6. Additional repairs

Stairs, board replacements, extensive filling, nail punching and colour changes may all add to the cost.

When comparing quotations, make sure you are comparing the same scope of work, including preparation, the number of coats, the finish specified and any additional charges.

Getting an accurate quote for your timber floors

Online prices are useful for budgeting, but the best way to determine the cost of your project is to have your floors assessed.

At Coastal Eco Floor Sanding, we provide free quotations and are happy to help you understand your options.

To help us prepare an accurate estimate, please provide:

• Your suburb or property location.

• The approximate square metres of timber flooring.

• A few clear photos of the floors.

• Any information about existing damage, old coatings or repairs.

• Your preferred finish or the look you would like to achieve.

If you aren’t sure which finish is right for your home, that’s absolutely fine. We can discuss the options with you.

Local timber floor sanding across the Mid North Coast

We love working locally and helping homeowners bring their timber floors back to life.

Coastal Eco Floor Sanding provides professional timber floor sanding, polishing and restoration services across the region, including Port Macquarie, Laurieton, Kendall, Kew, Harrington, Taree, Forster, Old Bar and South West Rocks, along with surrounding areas.

Whether you have a Blackbutt floor that needs a fresh finish or an older timber floor that deserves a complete restoration, we’re here to help.

Ready to restore your timber floors?

Contact Coastal Eco Floor Sanding today for your free quotation. Send us a few photos and some details about your project, and we’ll help you work out the best approach for your home.

Beautiful timber floors start with the right preparation.