Sanding & Refinishing vs. New Timber Installation: What's the Price Difference?

For many Melbourne homeowners, the decision to upgrade their timber floors often boils down to a fundamental question: should I breathe new life into my existing timber through sanding and refinishing, or is it more practical and cost-effective to install brand new timber flooring? Both options offer significant benefits, but their costs and implications vary widely.

At MyFlooring, we understand this dilemma and aim to provide transparent insights into the financial aspects of each choice, helping you make the best decision for your home and budget.

The Cost of Sanding & Refinishing Existing Timber Floors

If your Melbourne home already boasts timber floorboards, a professional sand and refinish can bring them back to their former glory, often transforming their appearance dramatically. This process involves stripping away the old finish, addressing minor imperfections, and applying fresh protective coatings.

Typical Price Range in Melbourne: The cost for professional timber floor sanding and refinishing in Melbourne generally ranges from $40 to $100 per square meter.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Sanding & Refinishing:

1. Floor Condition: Floors with deep scratches, extensive water stains, significant gaps, or previous damage (e.g., from carpet staples, pet accidents) will require more extensive preparation, repairs, and sanding passes, increasing labour and material costs.

2. Type of Finish: The chosen finish significantly impacts the price. Basic solvent-based polyurethanes might be at the lower end, while premium water-based polyurethanes (offering superior durability and lower VOCs), or natural hardwax oils, typically sit at the higher end.

3. Area Size and Layout: Larger, open-plan areas are generally more cost-effective per square meter than smaller, intricately shaped rooms, hallways, or stairs, which require more time-consuming hand-sanding and edging.

4. Existing Coatings: Removing old, stubborn finishes (like thick, aged polyurethanes, paint, or even old adhesives) can be more complex and time-consuming.

5. Furniture Removal & Preparation: Most quotes assume rooms are empty. If you require assistance with furniture removal or carpet uplift, this will be an additional charge.

6. Additional Services: Gap filling, staining (to change timber colour), or bleaching/limewashing (to lighten timber) are usually add-on services.

The Cost of Installing New Timber Floors

Installing new timber floors offers a blank canvas, allowing you to choose the exact timber species, style, and finish you desire. This typically involves preparing the subfloor, laying the new timber, and then finishing it on-site (unless opting for pre-finished boards).

Typical Price Range in Melbourne (Supply & Installation): The cost for new timber floor installation in Melbourne varies widely, generally ranging from $80 to $300+ per square meter, including materials, installation, and finishing.

Factors Influencing the Cost of New Installation:

1. Timber Type & Species:

   • Engineered Timber: Generally ranges from $50 - $200+ per m² (material only), depending on the veneer thickness and timber species. Installation adds $30 - $50+ per m².

   • Solid Hardwood: Ranges from $80 - $300+ per m² (material only). Premium and exotic Australian hardwoods like Spotted Gum, Ironbark, or Jarrah will be more expensive than common options like Tasmanian Oak or Pine.

   • Reclaimed/Recycled Timber: Can also vary widely ($90 - $250+ per m²), often depending on rarity and preparation.

2. Board Width & Laying Pattern: Wider boards often cost more per square meter. Intricate patterns like Herringbone or Chevron significantly increase both material waste and installation labour due to their complexity.

3. Solid vs. Engineered vs. Hybrid: Engineered timber often provides a more stable and cost-effective option than solid timber, while hybrid floors offer even lower price points with timber-look finishes.

4. Subfloor Preparation: The condition of your existing subfloor is crucial. Any levelling, repairs, or moisture barriers required will add to the overall cost. Removing old flooring (carpet, tiles, existing timber) is also an additional labour and disposal cost.

5. Installation Method: Nailing, gluing, or floating installation methods can have different labour implications and material costs (e.g., adhesives).

6. Finish Type (for unfinished timber): Similar to refinishing, the choice of finish for newly laid raw timber will affect the final price.

7. Grade of Timber: Higher grades (fewer knots, more uniform colour) are more expensive than lower grades, which offer a more rustic look.

   
   

Key Considerations & The "Hidden" Costs

Beyond the per-square-meter rate, consider these factors:

• Disruption & Time: Sanding and refinishing generally involve less disruption and are completed faster (often 2-5 days) than a new installation (which can take a week or more, including acclimatisation, subfloor prep, and installation).

• Salvageable Condition: If your existing timber floors are severely damaged (extensive water damage, rot, widespread structural issues, or have been sanded too many times), replacement might be the only viable option.

• Long-Term Value: Both options enhance property value. Restoration often preserves the character and original integrity of older homes, which can be highly desirable. New floors offer the ability to achieve a completely fresh aesthetic.

• Ancillary Costs: Remember to budget for removal and disposal of old flooring, skirting board replacement or painting (if damaged during installation), and temporary accommodation if you need to vacate the property.

Making the Right Decision for Your Melbourne Home

• Choose Sanding & Refinishing if:

  • Your existing timber floors are in reasonable to good condition, with superficial wear, scratches, or dullness.

  • You are happy with the timber species you have but want to refresh its look or change its stain colour/sheen.

  • You are working with a tighter budget and want to maximise the value of your current investment.

  • You prefer a quicker project timeline and less significant disruption.
    

• Choose New Timber Floor Installation if:

  • Your existing floors are irreparably damaged (severe water damage, rot, significant structural issues, or too thin from previous sanding).

  • You desire a completely different timber species, plank width, or intricate laying pattern that your existing floors cannot accommodate.

  • You are undertaking a major renovation or new build and want to create a specific aesthetic from scratch.

  • Your budget allows for a higher upfront investment for a brand-new foundation.
    

Deciding between sanding and refinishing or installing new timber floors requires careful consideration of both cost and your home's unique needs. At MyFlooring, we provide comprehensive, transparent quotes for both services in Melbourne.

Our experts can assess your existing floors, discuss your vision, and help you determine the most suitable and cost-effective solution to achieve the beautiful timber floors you desire.

Contact MyFlooring today for a free consultation and let us help you make an informed decision for your home.