How Much Does It Cost to Refinish a Deck? [2023 Data]

Deck refinishing costs around $980 on average or $3 to $6.80 per square foot. However, the total cost of your project can vary widely. Some small decks in good condition cost as low as $600 to complete, while large, old decks may cost $1,360 or more.

You and your deck have been together through countless barbecues, weekend lounge sessions, and morning coffees. So, when you look beneath your slippers and realize it needs some extra love, it’s up to you to oblige. Your deck refinishing cost varies based on labor, the size of the deck, and the finish. Any necessary repairs will add to the deck refinishing cost, too.

Deck Restoration Cost

Deck restoration costs anywhere from $1,400 and $4,600 on average. Restoring your deck involves repairing and refinishing the deck, which can cost $600 to $1,400 and $800 to $3,200, respectively. The more work that needs to be done, the higher the price. 

Before the restoration process, you’ll need a deck inspection for signs of rot, warping, and infestations. If a pest infestation is present, you’ll need to hire an exterminator to evict any squatters. Structural repairs can get pricey, but they’re absolutely necessary before you can refinish the deck.

Deck Resurfacing Cost

The cost to resurface a standard 200-square-foot deck is between $500 and $1,400 or around $1,000 on average. Included in this price is sanding and repainting or staining the deck. This price range varies depending on the type of resurfacing materials used and the size of your deck.

Cost to Sand a Deck

The cost to rent a floor sander varies by the duration of your rental, with most ranging between $40 and $70 per day. You’ll also need to pick up a three-pack of discs for around $5. Your local hardware store might rent out a floor sander for different rates and time frames, including:

Deck Refinishing Cost Factors

Photo: Iriana Shiyan / Adobe Stock

The cost to refinish a deck is well worth the investment. Your deck restoration cost depends on labor and the size and state of your deck. Repairs are another major factor that can quickly tally up your bill. It’s one of the best ways to maintain your deck.

To preserve your deck’s beauty, keep up with regular cleaning, repairing, sealing, and other maintenance work. A local deck refinishing service can give your deck the TLC it deserves.

Size

Professional deck refinishing costs between $3 and $7 per square foot. Here are a few cost ranges based on size:

Keep in mind that repairs also play a part in your cost to refinish a deck. A small but mangled deck could end up being more expensive than a large one that’s more structurally sound.

Labor

Your biggest deck resurfacing cost factor is labor. Professional resurfacing of a 200-square-foot deck could cost between $600 to $1,400. DIY-ing it might cost between $300 and $800, depending on what tools you already own.

Cleaning the Deck

A professional power wash costs about $0.40 per square foot, while renting a power washer is about $70 to $300 per day. This method can help eliminate any chipped paint and start you off with a smoother surface. Be careful not to use too much water pressure on your deck, otherwise it could splinter your wood.

Repairing the Deck

If you find that the happy pattering of feet loosened your deck over time, or that greedy insects have been munching on it, you’ll have to budget for repairs in your deck refinishing cost. The average cost to repair a deck is about $2,000, but it can get up to $4,000 or even over $10,000 for larger and severely maimed decks.

Staining and Sealing the Deck

Staining a deck can cost $550 to $1,250, while deck sealing will add about $0.50 to $7 per square foot. It might cost more than a simple DIY job, but hiring a local deck staining pro will guarantee a smooth, beautiful application your neighbors will “ooh” and “aah” at.

Type of Finish

Deck sealants cost anywhere between $20 to $60 per gallon, depending on the type of finish. Water-based sealants typically cost twice as much as oil-based sealants. Though they cost double that of oil-based sealants, water-based sealants have a lower lifespan. Water-based sealants are easier to apply to deck surfaces, however. They also contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them more environmentally friendly. 

Many DIY deck stains come with built-in sealant and cost about $40 per gallon. A gallon usually covers 200 to 300 square feet, so you might need more than one. For best results, apply with a paint sprayer, which costs around $300. If that price makes you flinch (we feel you), you can rent a paint sprayer for around $100 per day. 

Regardless of the finish type, a high-quality finish tends to cost more upfront than a low-quality finish. In the long run, however, you’ll likely save money by investing in a quality finish with a longer lifespan. 

Location

Areas with a higher cost of living might see higher labor costs to refinish a deck than regions with a lower cost of living. For example, Los Angeles, California may cost more than double that of Salt Lake City, Utah, to repair a deck. If you shop online for materials to DIY your project, you might spend more toward the national average for the materials. 

Deck Condition

Your deck’s condition could make or break your budget, with costs varying wildly from $300 to $10,000. A deck that is in good condition and only needs cleaning, sanding, staining, and resealing can be DIYed for about $300, while a deck in poor condition may need reparation, sending project costs upward to over $10,000.

DIY Deck Refinish Costs

If you’re confident you won’t get stuck with a gooey mess, a DIY deck refinishing can save you quite a bit of cash. Your budget will vary based on the size and state of your deck, plus what tools you have in your shed.

Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need:

*Keep in mind that 1 gallon will cover between 200 and 300 square feet of deck. 

Excluding the power washer and paint sprayer, as well as the stain and sealer, your basic tool cost comes to $150, give or take. Your power washer rental will bring that total to around $200 to $450. 

Finally, there’s the paint sprayer to consider, which will add another $100 to $300 depending on whether you rent or buy. Then you just have to think about stain and sealer for $40 per gallon. A DIY deck restoration also requires a major time commitment, as there are three different steps you’ll need to follow to bring your deck back to its former glory:

Deck Inspection

A professional deck inspection can cost around $25 to $200. However, you can also DIY this process in between pro inspections. Is your deck still securely attached to the house? Do you notice any rotting, soft boards, or other sketchy structural issues? You can’t slap on a fresh coat of finish to correct these problems. You should aim to have your deck inspected annually to ensure it’s safe and up to code.

Sanding Your Deck

Wait at least 48 hours for your deck to fully dry, then you can go to town with your orbital sander. You can rent a sander for $40 to $70 per day, plus a three-pack of discs for $5. Be sure to select the right grit for your wood. Floors usually call for a lower grit, whereas deck railings need a higher one.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you decide to DIY your deck, you could save between $300 and $600 on average. However, refinishing a deck on your own is no easy feat. You’ll likely invest great energy and time into the project, even if you save money on labor costs. If you don’t already have experience refinishing decks—or the deck is in poor condition—your best bet is to work with a professional to restore and refinish your deck.

Again, hiring a deck refinishing service near you costs anywhere from $600 to $1,400, depending primarily on the condition and size of your deck. Working with a pro helps ensure that your deck is safe, comfortable, long-lasting, and attractive for years to come.

Alison Kasch contributed to this piece.