If you’ve been searching online for “how much does it cost to restore wood floors?”… you’re not alone. But the truth is, Google often gives a neat price… without the vital context that makes it real.
The part many people miss… Repairs.
Before a single sanding machine touches your floor, we often need to carry out specialist repairs to ensure it doesn’t fail, fade, or warp afterwards. This isn’t just about looks… it’s about protecting your investment.
Let’s walk you through what’s involved… clearly, calmly, and without the usual gloss.
Before sanding begins, the floor has to be sound.
Even when a wood floor looks fine at first glance, it may not be ready for sanding.
Wood is a living material… shaped by temperature, moisture, and movement over time. Underneath the surface, small issues can weaken the finish or cause it to fail early.
So, before anything starts, we assess the floor carefully. We look for:
- Loose or shifting boards
- Hidden moisture trapped below the surface
- Signs of previous damage or repairs
- Inconsistencies in thickness or support
Skipping this step doesn’t save time… it just pushes the problem down the line. And once a finish is applied, those flaws tend to show up fast.
If you’re curious how this fits into the full restoration journey, here’s a look at our process from first visit to final coat.
Why we allow a full day for repairs
Even if your floor only needs small adjustments, we set aside a whole day for repairs. That’s not guesswork. It’s respect… for the material, and the result you’re expecting.
Here’s what we will do:
- Secure or re-fix any loose boards.
- Replace damaged sections with tone-matched timber.
- Check that the subfloor is stable enough to support refinishing
We’ll always aim to blend new boards in gently. But it’s important to say: a perfect match is rare. And that’s okay.
Here’s the truth: even if we use the same species, same supplier, or reclaimed timber, an exact match isn’t guaranteed.
Wood changes as it ages… with light, wear, and time. If your floor includes a few newer sections, they’ll mellow in too. Often, this adds character, not clutter.
Can I skip the repairs and just sand?
It’s possible… but we wouldn’t advise it.
We’ve seen floors that were sanded over unstable boards… and looked fine for a month.
Then the finish began to lift, or the sound changed underfoot. In some cases, the floor had to be redone… which costs more and means more disruption.
That’s why repairs aren’t an “extra”. They’re a foundation.
If you’re weighing up what’s essential and what’s optional, our Knowledge Centre has helpful guides on finish types, aftercare, and choosing what suits your home.
How much does repair work cost?
Every floor is different. But to give you a guide:
| Item | Typical Cost |
| Replacement wood (boards) | £80–£100 per m² — supply only |
| Repair labour | From £250 per day — floor dependent |
We’ll never assume. Instead, we measure the floor’s condition, moisture levels, thickness, and finish potential before we start.
That way, you’re not left patching problems after the fact… or trying to fix a mismatch that could have been avoided.
Note: These costs cover repairs only. Sanding and finishing are priced separately, depending on the service level and durability you choose afterwards.
What happens if the problem runs deeper?
If we find something structural… like joists that have moved or a subfloor that’s rotten… we’ll stop and let you know.
We don’t carry out joist or structural work ourselves, as that sits in a different trade. But we’ll explain what we’ve found, and recommend the right kind of specialist if needed.
If full replacement turns out to be the best option, we can refer you to our sister company, Art of Flooring… they handle supply and fit with the same care we bring to restoration.
No drama. Just honesty.
Over time, most clients tell us the variation fades into the floor’s story. Not as a flaw… but as part of what makes it feel real.
Before you decide…
If your wood floor needs repairs, it’s not a bad sign. It’s a sign the floor has lived a life… and that you care about what comes next.
We’ll always walk you through what’s needed and what isn’t. No pressure. No jargon. Just calm, careful support that helps your floor last for years.
Ready to talk it through? Get in touch with us here… We’re here and ready to help.
FAQ: Wood floor repairs before sanding
Can I just sand now and fix things later?
You could… but you’ll likely run into finish failure or patchy wear. Better to stabilise first.
Do I need to supply the wood?
No… We’ll handle sourcing and try to get a close enough match as we can to your boards. This can take up to 4 weeks.
Will it look obvious if some boards are new?
We aim to blend carefully. Natural variation is normal and tends to soften with time and light.
My floor creaks… is that a problem?
Possibly. It may need re-securing, or the subfloor might need checking. We’ll assess this calmly before sanding starts.
How should I prepare the room for repair day?
Clearing furniture helps us work safely and efficiently. We’ll let you know what needs moving in advance.
