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 $2,000 and $3,600.

Typical price band

$2,600typical

$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

— 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.

— 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.

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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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