Understanding the Cost of Refinishing a Deck

August 28, 2024 at 7:30 AM
A deck refinishing cost depends on many different factors

Refinishing a deck—sounds straightforward, doesn’t it? Strip off the old, slap on the new, and voilà, a deck that looks brand new. But as any homeowner who’s taken on this task will tell you, there’s much more to it than meets the eye. The deck refinishing cost isn’t just a number pulled from thin air. It’s a mix of multiple factors, some obvious and some hidden, all converging to give you that final price tag.

What Exactly is Deck Refinishing?

You might think of deck refinishing as just a routine chore, but it’s more akin to giving your deck a second life. It involves cleaning, sanding, and applying a fresh coat of stain or sealer to protect the wood. Sounds simple, but each step requires precision. Miss a spot? That neglected area could start to deteriorate, costing you more in the long run.

Breaking Down the Cost: Factors to Consider

Size of the Deck: Size matters—especially in deck refinishing. A small, cozy deck might not dent your wallet too much, but the sprawling, multi-level entertainment space? That’s a different story. 

More square footage means more materials, more labor, and yes, more money. It's easy to overlook just how much surface area your deck has until you're buying gallons of stain and wondering why it's taking so long to cover every inch.

Condition of the Deck: Here’s where things get tricky. A deck in pristine condition might only need a quick clean and a fresh coat. But what if your deck’s seen better days? Splintered boards, loose nails, or rotting wood can drive up the refinishing cost considerably. Repairs must be done first, and they’re not always cheap. What starts as a refinishing job can quickly escalate into a mini-renovation project if your deck’s been neglected.

Type of Wood: You might not think much about the type of wood your deck is made from, but it plays a significant role in the refinishing process. Pine and Cedar? Common, relatively easy to work with, and affordable.

Exotic woods like Ipe or Mahogany? Gorgeous, but they demand special attention—and that attention comes at a premium. Some stains work better with certain types of wood, and some woods need more frequent maintenance, all of which factor into the cost.

Choice of Finish: The finish you choose is more than just a color choice—it’s a long-term investment. A basic, no-frills sealer might do the job, but if you want your deck to withstand the harshest weather and still look good, you’ll need a high-quality stain. These premium options offer UV protection, water resistance, and longer life spans.

Labor Costs: Ah, the variable that can make or break your budget—labor costs. If you’re hiring a professional, like the experienced team at Fox Painting, labor costs can vary based on complexity, region, and timing. Is your deck easily accessible, or is it perched precariously on a hillside? Do you have intricate railings and balusters that need careful attention? These factors can all impact the cost.

Additional Services: Power washing, repairs, and even removing furniture or debris—all these extras add up. A professional service might bundle these with their refinishing package, but each added service increases the final bill.

Average Costs: What Should You Expect?

So, after considering all these variables, what does the final bill look like? On average, you could be looking at $2 to $4 per square foot. But keep in mind, this is just an estimate. Your deck refinishing cost could fall below or well above this range, depending on the specifics of your project.

The best way to ensure you are getting a fair price without compromising on quality is to hire a reputable service provider like Fox Painting. Book an estimate on your project today to get started.