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How to Budget for Hardwood Floor Refinishing

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How to Budget for Hardwood Floor Refinishing

A smooth plan to get your floors back to their prime without draining your entire savings account.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $138.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Living rooms take a beating, but refinishing the wood changes the entire feel of your home. The process usually takes three to five days, though you will need to plan for a few days of downtime while the finish cures.

Aim to book this during low humidity months like winter or early spring. Wood expands in summer, which can make the sanding and staining process trickier for your contractor.

Remember that this is a temporary window, not a free pass. If you have a remaining balance after the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Gather three quotes

    Never go with the first price you hear. Get written estimates from three local flooring pros to see how their costs for sanding, staining, and sealing compare. Make sure each quote includes the cost of moving furniture.

  2. 02

    Set your buffer

    Even with a firm quote, floors can hide surprises like water damage or deep gouges that need extra attention. Budget an extra ten percent on top of your estimate to cover those repairs.

  3. 03

    Use your card for the job

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you pay for the $2500 project over time, which comes out to $138.89 per month during your 18-month intro window on purchases.

  4. 04

    Clear the space

    The contractor will be hauling heavy machinery into your house. Move all your small items, rugs, and light furniture out of the room before they arrive so you aren't paying them to do your heavy lifting.

  5. 05

    Track your progress

    Set up an automatic payment for $139 each month. This ensures you keep pace with the 18-month window so you aren't left with a large chunk of debt when the interest-free period ends.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I really need to move all my furniture?

Yes. Most contractors charge extra if they have to move your sofas and tables, and they often aren't liable if they scratch your furniture while moving it. Save yourself the stress and the bill by clearing the room yourself.

How long until I can walk on the floors?

It depends on the finish. Most water-based finishes dry for foot traffic in 24 hours, but oil-based finishes can take days. Ask your contractor specifically before you plan on moving your furniture back in.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% deal early. Always set up an auto-pay or a calendar reminder to ensure you pay at least the minimum on time every single month.

Is it worth refinishing old floors?

Hardwood floors have a solid wear layer that can usually be sanded down several times over the life of the home. If your floor has enough wood left above the tongue and groove, it is almost always cheaper to refinish than to replace.