DIY Guide to Refinishing Hardwood Floors

If your hardwood floors are looking worn or dated, refinishing them is one of the best ways to breathe new life into your space. It’s a great indoor project for winter, especially if you'd rather avoid working outside in the cold.

A fresh finish makes your home feel brighter, more polished, and even increases resale value if you're planning to sell.

With the right rental equipment, it’s a manageable weekend project that delivers a huge visual upgrade.

This guide walks you through every step of the refinishing process, from sanding to sealing, and breaks down what it costs to do it yourself compared to hiring a contractor or replacing your floors altogether.
 

Tools You’ll Need

For a successful DIY floor refinishing project, having the right gear makes all the difference.

With the proper rental equipment, the entire process becomes more efficient, effective, and safe. Here’s what you’ll need:

Equipment to rent or purchase

1. Floor Sander

2. Edger Sander

3. Floor Buffer (or pole sander)

4. Shop Vac

Supplies needed from the hardware store

1. Safety gear: dust mask, ear protection, safety glasses

2. Sandpaper (multiple grits)

3. Wood filler

4. Applicators, brushes, tack cloths

5. Polyurethane (and stain, if desired)

Everything listed above can be rented by the day from local hardware stores and equipment rentals, including A-Z Equipment Rentals . It’s smart to call ahead and ask about availability and pricing, especially if you’re planning the project over a weekend.
 

1. Prep the Room

Start by removing all furniture, rugs, and trim. Check the floor for raised nails or staples and either remove or hammer them down. Cover vents and nearby areas with plastic sheeting to contain dust. Filling in large gaps or cracks with wood filler gives you a smoother final finish. Good prep helps you avoid mess later and improves the final result.
 

2. Sanding

This is where the transformation starts. Rent a floor sander for the open areas and an edger for along the walls.

Begin with a coarse grit to remove the old finish, then step through finer grits to smooth things out. Always sand with the grain and keep the machine moving to avoid gouges. Rental sanders may seem intimidating, but they are easy to handle once you get into the rhythm. They are also much faster than hand sanding and you can always ask your local expert for tips and tricks.

After each pass, vacuum up all dust using a shop vac. Clean everything, including baseboards, window ledges, and corners. Safety gear like goggles and a dust mask will help you stay comfortable throughout the process.
 

3. Buff, Clean, and Prep for Finish

Once sanding is complete, buff the floor using a floor buffer or pole sander . This evens out the surface and preps it for finishing. Clean up again thoroughly.

For an even stain color, consider water popping. It is optional, but it can help softwoods absorb stain more evenly.
 

4. Staining (Only If You Want To)

If you like the natural wood tone, you can skip this step. But for a richer look, apply stain in small sections and wipe off excess.

Ventilation is important, and you’ll want to let the stain dry fully before applying finish. Do not rush it. Proper drying time leads to a better final result.
 

5. Finish Strong with Polyurethane

To protect your newly finished floor, apply polyurethane in long, even strokes with a foam roller or applicator.

Water-based finishes dry fast and stay clear. Oil-based finishes are more durable and give a warmer tint.

Buff between coats to keep everything smooth. Most jobs require two to three coats.

Let the final coat cure completely before placing furniture or rugs back in the room.
 

Costs of Refinishing Hardwood Floors: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Here’s a ballpark breakdown for a 400 to 500 square foot room:

1. Equipment rentals: $300 to $400

2. Materials and consumables: $250 to $400

3. Miscellaneous supplies: about $100

Total DIY cost: $600 to $900

Hiring a pro: $1,500 to $2,000

Replacing the floor: $3,500 or more

DIY refinishing saves you money and gives you total control over the outcome.
 

So, Should You Do It Yourself?

Absolutely, if you’re willing to put in the time and follow the process. Refinishing hardwood floors is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can do inside your home. You get a fresh, beautiful finish that makes a dramatic difference, especially during the months when you're spending more time indoors. And the best part is that with the help of rental equipment, you can do it yourself efficiently, effectively, and safely.

If you're in Wilmington or nearby, you're in luck. You can rent all the necessary tools locally. A-Z Equipment Rentals has locations across coastal North and South Carolina, ready to help you tackle your floor refinishing project from start to finish.