If you’re considering having your wood floors sanded and refinished, one of the first questions you’ll want answered is how much it’s likely to cost. The honest answer is that pricing varies depending on several factors — but this guide will give you a realistic picture of what to expect in Surrey and the surrounding areas in 2026.
What Affects the Cost of Floor Sanding?
No two jobs are identical, and a number of variables will influence the final price.
Floor size The most significant factor is simply how much floor there is. Most floor sanding companies, including ourselves, price primarily by the square metre. Larger areas cost more in total, but the rate per square metre often comes down slightly on bigger jobs.
Floor condition A floor in poor condition takes longer to sand. Deep scratches, heavy staining, old layers of paint or varnish, and significant surface damage all require more passes with coarser abrasives before the surface is ready for finishing. If the floor is in reasonable condition with a relatively modern finish, preparation is quicker.
Type of finish The finish you choose affects both material costs and labour time. Lacquer is typically the most straightforward to apply. Oils and hardwax oils involve more steps and longer drying times between coats, which can add to the overall cost.
Repairs and gap filling If boards need replacing, loose boards need securing, or gaps need filling, these are usually priced separately from the sanding itself. The extent of repair work can add meaningfully to the total.
Floor type and layout Straight-run plank floors are the most straightforward to sand. Parquet floors — particularly herringbone and other geometric patterns — take longer because they require sanding at multiple angles. This is reflected in the price.
Access and logistics Ground floor rooms with easy access are simpler to work in than upper floors reached by narrow staircases, or rooms that are difficult to ventilate properly.
Typical Price Ranges in Surrey (2026)
These figures are intended as a general guide for the Surrey area and surrounding regions. They reflect professional trade rates using quality equipment and finishes — not the cheapest end of the market.
Sanding and finishing (lacquer or oil) — straight-run boards Approximately £25 to £45 per square metre, depending on condition and finish type.
Sanding and finishing — parquet floors Approximately £35 to £55 per square metre, reflecting the additional time required.
Gap filling Typically priced per room or as an addition to the overall job — expect to add £100 to £300 depending on the number of gaps and the size of the room.
Board repairs and replacements Priced on a case-by-case basis depending on the extent of damage and the availability of matching timber.
Stairs Stairs are time-consuming to sand by hand and are generally priced per stair tread — typically £20 to £40 per tread depending on complexity.
Minimum call-out Most professional floor sanding companies will have a minimum charge, often equivalent to 20 to 25 square metres of work. Very small jobs may not be economical to undertake as standalone projects.
What Should You Be Wary Of?
Unusually low quotes Floor sanding done cheaply is rarely done well. Very low quotes often indicate the use of hired domestic equipment rather than professional-grade machines, cheap finishes that won’t last, or a lack of experience with different floor types. The results can be disappointing and in some cases leave the floor in worse condition than before.
Quotes given without a site visit An accurate quote for floor sanding really requires seeing the floor in person. Any quote given purely based on a rough square metreage without an assessment of the floor’s condition should be treated with caution.
Unclear inclusions Make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t included in any quote — specifically whether the finish coats, repairs, and gap filling are covered or priced separately.
Is It Worth It?
In almost every case, yes. A professional sand and refinish will transform a tired, scratched, or dull floor and extend its life by many years. Compared to the cost of replacing a wood floor entirely — which for solid hardwood can run into thousands of pounds — restoration is almost always the more sensible investment.
For landlords and homeowners preparing a property for sale, a freshly sanded floor can have a significant impact on how the property presents, often for a relatively modest outlay.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
The best way to get a realistic price is to arrange a free site visit. We’ll look at the floor in person, assess its condition, discuss your finish options, and give you a clear, itemised quote with no hidden extras.
Surrey Wood Floor Sanding serves homeowners, landlords, and businesses across Surrey, South London, Sussex, Hampshire, Kent, and Berkshire. Get in touch today to arrange your free assessment.