How much does floor sanding cost?
Sanding and polishing timber floors typically costs $25–$45 per m², so a whole-house job of around 80 m² usually lands between $1,800 and $3,600.
Typical price band
$2,600typical
standard job $1.8k–$3.6k
$400 low$6,500 high
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Real-world examples
Single room refresh$400 – $800
Whole house sand & polish$1,800 – $3,600
Premium finish or repairs$3,200 – $6,500
What affects the price
— Floor area. The core driver — sanders quote almost entirely on square metres.
— Board condition. Paint, old adhesive, water stains and cupped boards need extra sanding passes.
— Finish type. Standard solvent-based polyurethane is cheapest; stains, limewash and premium water-based coatings add cost.
— Edges, stairs & detail. Staircases, tight corners and herringbone or parquetry are slow, hand-heavy work.
— Repairs first. Replacing damaged boards or securing loose ones is charged on top of the sanding rate.
Tips before you post
— You'll need to be off the floors while coats cure — plan 2–4 days out of those rooms.
— Ask how many coats are included and whether nail punching and gap filling are in the quote.
— Water-based finishes cost more but stay clearer over time and have far less odour.
Beyond the price: Sanding back timber floors: hiring a floor sander well
Read the guide →Other costs in this category
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Indicative range only, not a quote. Get quotes from local tradies for an exact price. Last updated 13 July 2026.
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