How Much Does Floor Sanding and Polishing Cost?

One common question Australian homeowners ask about it is, "How much does it cost to sand a floor in Australia?"

In Australia, the floor sanding and polishing cost per square metre is between $30 and $60 for standard jobs. The final price depends on floor size, timber type, and the finish you choose.

Recently, timber floor sanding and polishing can alter the ambiance in your home. They appear clean, shining, and smooth underneath your feet. However, it requires expertise and the right equipment. This is why you need to know the costs involved before you book a tradie to perform the task.

This blog explains the cost of floor sanding and polishing, factors affecting the prices, and tips to budget effectively. Let’s understand more about it in detail.

Average Cost of Floor Sanding and Polishing

The average cost of floor sanding and polishing ranges between $30 and $60 per m² for standard jobs. Higher-end finishes or repairs can push the price above this range. 

If you are planning a concrete surface upgrade instead of timber restoration, you may also need to hire a concrete floor polishing expert for the right tools and finish quality.

The table below shows the cost of floor sanding and polishing. Let’s have a closer look at it. 

Now, you have understood the timber floor sanding and polishing cost. Next, let’s see what affects these prices. 

Factors Affecting the Floor Sanding and Polishing Cost

Several factors affect the cost of floor sanding per m². Let’s explore these factors in detail. 

➢ Floor Size and Layout

Floor size and layout affect the floor sanding and refinishing cost. Bigger areas involve a higher cost, but the cost may be lower for large jobs. Open rooms can be sanded faster because sanding machines can move around freely. Rooms with tight corners, fixed cabinets, or odd shapes require more time to sand. Additional edges require more labor. Stairs can reduce the speed of the process and add to the cost.

➢ Condition of the Timber

The condition of your current floor affects the floor sanding cost. Small marks on the surface are easy to smooth out. Deeper dents, dark marks, or water damage require additional sanding or repairs. Loose or damaged boards need floorboard repairs, and then there is more work before the actual polishing begins. This again requires additional time, resulting in increased labor charges.

➢ Type of Timber Flooring

The type of timber floor polishing you have affects both the work time and the final cost. Hardwoods tend to be tough. Engineered timbers, on the other hand, tend to have a thin layer on top, which needs to be sanded carefully. If you are unsure how your flooring will respond, knowing floor sanding and polishing for different flooring types can help you understand what to expect before starting the job.

➢ Type of Finish Chosen

Water-based polyurethane dries quickly and has less smell. Oil-based finishes give a richer color but take longer to dry. The level of shine, such as matte, satin, or gloss, changes the material cost too. This becomes even more important when thinking about hybrid surfaces, as floor polishing and sanding considerations for hybrid floors explain why traditional sanding may not suit every floor type. 

➢ Labour and Location

Labor and location are other factors affecting the timber re polishing cost. The cost of labor also varies in Australia. The price may be relatively higher in cities compared to towns. The distance involved in traveling, parking, and accessibility to your home may also vary. If you need urgent work or after-hours service, you may be charged extra for the added convenience.

➢ Furniture Removal and Preparation

The floor must be fully cleared before sanding begins, especially if you are working with stripped floorboards that need a clean surface for proper results. If you move furniture yourself, you can lower the cost. If the tradie handles furniture removal, this service is added to the quote. Removing old carpet, nails, or staples also takes extra time and effort, which increases the total labor charge.

Tips to Save Money on Floor Sanding and Polishing Cost

With a little planning, you can reduce your total spend without cutting quality. Here are the tips to save money on floor sanding and polishing prices. 

• Repair minor damage early: Fix loose nails or small gaps before they get worse. Quick action prevents larger repair costs later.

• Get multiple quotes: Compare at least three quotes from licensed professionals. Look at what each quote includes, not only the price.

• Choose the right finish for your lifestyle: High-gloss finishes look great but may show scratches. A satin finish often hides marks and may cost less over time.

• Book during off-peak times: If you are flexible, ask about quieter seasons. Contractors may offer better rates when demand is lower.

• Maintain your floors after polishing: Use soft pads on furniture legs. Regular care extends the life of the finish and delays the next sanding job.

Trusted Tradie Network: Hire Sanding and Polishing Experts Near You

The right professional for floor sanding and polishing near me that you employ is just as important as understanding the cost. This is where Trusted Tradie Network comes in to assist. It makes it easy to connect with local experts who specialize in floor sanding and polishing.

Each tradie profile shows their experience, reviews from customers, and information on the services they provide. This makes it easier for Australian homeowners to compare the options and make a quick decision. You can post your job and choose a professional from the quotes you receive.

When you search for floor sanders near me in your area, Trusted Tradie Network helps you connect with the skilled tradies so that the renovation of floors can be done without difficulty.

Conclusion

Floor sanding and polishing can refresh your home and increase property value. The final cost depends on the size of the area, the condition of the timber, the finish you choose, and how much preparation is needed. If you are checking the polish floorboards cost, remember that repairs, staining, or complex layouts can raise the total amount.

While the price is a consideration, quality work is more important. A floor that is sanded and polished correctly can last for decades if well taken care of. Before you book a tradie, understand what makes a difference in cost, get a few quotes, and choose a good professional.

With the right planning, you can enjoy smooth, clean floors that look bright and feel comfortable underfoot.

FAQs

1. How much does floor polishing cost in Australia?

Floor polishing in Australia usually costs between $30 and $60 per m² for standard jobs. The price can go higher if the floor needs repairs, staining, or extra preparation before polishing begins.

2. Is it cheaper to sand and refinish hardwood floors or replace them?

In most cases, sanding and refinishing hardwood floors is much cheaper than replacing them. Replacement involves new materials, removal of old flooring, and higher labor costs, which makes it more expensive overall.

3. Why is floor sanding so expensive?

Floor sanding costs more because it needs skilled workers and special machines. The job also takes time, especially if the floor has damage or needs repairs before polishing.

4. What affects the cost of floor sanding and polishing cost?

The cost depends on floor size, timber condition, type of finish, repairs needed, and your location. Extra work, like moving furniture or fixing damaged boards,s can also increase the total price.

5. How long does it take a professional to sand a floor?

Most professionals take two to four days to complete sanding and polishing. This includes sanding, applying finish coats, and allowing enough drying time before the floor can be used again.