How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost in 2025?
Refinishing a deck costs an average of $980
The average cost to refinish a deck is $980 for a 200-square-foot deck.
Most deck refinishing costs range from $900 to $2,720, depending on size, labor, materials, prep work, and other factors.
The cost to refinish a deck is between $3 and $7 per square foot, including labor and materials.
Plan to inspect your deck for damage and restain it every two to three years.
Hiring a professional to refinish your deck ensures high-quality, long-lasting results.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The cost to refinish a deck measuring 200 square feet is $980 on average, ranging from $900 to $2,720. That breaks down to an average of $3 to $7 per square foot, including materials and basic labor. Keep in mind that additional prep work, like sanding or repairing damage, will add to the total cost. Hiring a deck refinishing professional will ensure that your job is done correctly with long-lasting results that will allow you to enjoy a fresh deck surface for years to come.
Deck Refinishing Cost Factors
Several factors impact the final cost of refinishing a deck. These include the type of project, deck size, materials, prep work required, labor costs, and location.
Type of Project
The scope of your project significantly impacts the cost. A simple restaining involves cleaning and applying a new coat of stain—an affordable option if your deck is in good shape. For decks with more wear and tear, refinishing may be necessary, which includes sanding the surface and repairing damaged boards, adding to labor and material costs.
The most extensive (and costly) option is resurfacing, which might involve replacing boards or structural components. Understanding your deck's condition helps you anticipate the necessary work and associated costs.
Deck Size
Deck size plays a crucial role in determining refinishing costs. Naturally, larger decks require more materials and labor, increasing the overall expense. Don't forget to factor in additional elements like steps, railings, and built-in seating, as restaining these areas will also add to your project’s total cost.
On average, the cost to refinish a deck works out to $3 to $7 per square foot. An average 200-square-foot deck has a total cost of $900 to $2,720. Smaller decks may cost as little as $500 to refinish. By comparison, the cost to restain an older, larger deck could be more than $4,000, especially if deck repairs are needed.
| Deck Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 100 | $300–$700 |
| 150 | $450–$1,050 |
| 200 | $600–$1,400 |
| 300 | $900–$2,100 |
| 400 | $1,200–$2,800 |
| 500 | $1,500–$3,500 |
Prep Work
The condition of your deck significantly impacts refinishing costs. If your deck is in good shape, a quick cleaning and light sanding might be all it needs. However, if it's weathered, cracked, or damaged, you may need more extensive repairs or even resurfacing, which will increase the cost. Evaluating your deck's condition helps you understand what kind of prep work is necessary.
Local pros can inspect your deck to suggest what prep work may be required. Pressure washing a deck costs $0.40 per square foot, on average. Expect to pay $40 to $70 per day for sanding and between $30 and $50 per hour for paint stripping.
The cost to repair a deck varies depending on the extent of damage, ranging from $850 to $3,500. Repairs may address cracks, splitting, mold, mildew, and other concerns.
| Prep Task | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Sanding | $40–$70 per day |
| Power washing | $0.40 per square foot |
| Repairs | $850–$3,500 |
| Paint stripping | $30–$50 per hour |
Materials
The materials you select, especially the type of stain, play a big role in your deck refinishing cost. Choosing the right stain for your wood is crucial—it protects your deck from moisture, sunlight, and weather damage. Wood stains range from $20 to $120 per gallon. You'll also need supplies like cleaning solutions, brushes, rollers, and protective gear. Investing in quality materials can extend the life of your deck and save money in the long run.
You have a choice in the type of stain you can use to refinish your deck and your pro can recommend the kind that’s best suited to your deck. Here are the average costs for various types of stain.
| Type of Stain | Average Cost per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Water-based | $40–$60 |
| Oil-based | $20–$50 |
| Clear | $20–$60 |
| Solid | $35–$55 |
Water-based deck finish costs $40 to $60 per gallon. These semi-transparent stains are mold- and mildew-resistant but don’t penetrate the wood deeply. They’re best suited for wood with natural, rot-resistant oils, like cedar and redwood.
Oil-based finishes cost between $20 and $50 per gallon, depending on whether it’s an oil-based sealant or a solid stain.
Clear deck stain is available in water- and oil-based options for $20 to $60 per gallon. It allows the natural beauty of your wood planks to shine through.
Solid deck stain costs $35 to $55 per gallon, giving you more options for different colors and finishes. This is similar to deck painting costs, a middle ground between staining and painting a deck with oil- and water-based formulations.
Labor
Labor costs for refinishing a 200-square-foot deck range from $600 to $1,400, depending on the work required and where you live. Professionals handle everything from staining to prep work like sanding, stripping old paint, and minor repairs. You might hire painters, carpenters, or deck specialists, and their rates can vary based on their expertise and your region. Hiring experienced pros ensures the job is done right, giving you peace of mind.
Hourly Rates:
Painters: $20–$50
Carpenters: $30–$60
Deck Specialists: $25–$55
Many professionals have minimum service fees, which can range from $100 to $250, covering the basic cost of mobilization and setup. Regional variations can affect labor costs, with higher rates in urban areas and higher costs of living. Labor costs may also increase during peak seasons when demand for deck services is high.
Location
How much deck sealing services in your area charge for restaining a deck varies based on local market conditions and the time of year. Companies tend to be busiest in the spring as homeowners prepare for summers on the deck, sometimes resulting in higher costs or longer wait times. A big city with a higher cost of living can drive up the cost of refinishing a deck.
Deck Resurfacing
Deck resurfacing gives your outdoor space a fresh start by sanding down the top layer and applying new stain or paint. For a 200-square-foot deck, resurfacing costs between $500 and $1,400, averaging $1,000. If your deck is larger, expect higher costs. Adding a sealant to protect against moisture, mold, and UV rays might increase the price slightly, but it offers valuable protection. Sealing costs an average of $0.50 to $7 per square foot.
Budgeting for Deck Restaining
Here are some tips to help you save money on deck restaining:
Keep it clean: Regularly sweep away leaves and debris to prevent damage to the wood.
DIY prep work: If you're handy, tackle basic prep tasks like minor repairs and sanding to cut labor costs.
Perform routine inspections: Check your deck periodically and address small issues before they become costly problems.
Manage moisture: Redirect downspouts away from your deck to prevent moisture buildup and rot.
Protect from stains: Use a grease catcher on your grill to prevent stubborn grease stains.
Compare quotes: Get detailed estimates from at least three local contractors, including all costs for materials and labor, to find the best deal.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Painter
While refinishing your own deck will save on labor costs, you still have to buy the materials, which can add up quickly, and spend the time doing the work yourself. Professional exterior painters and deck staining contractors are skilled in the proper techniques to strip paint, sand your deck, perform repairs, and apply stain or sealant evenly. Having your deck professionally refinished ensures a high-quality job with results that will stand the test of time.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's not recommended to place new decking over old decking. Doing so can hide decay beneath the surface, especially where fasteners penetrate the joists. Instead, it's best to repair or replace damaged joists to ensure the structural integrity of your deck. While some products claim to make overlaying possible, they can increase the risk of moisture damage and rot, and may create spaces where insects can nest. This approach also complicates matters on decks with multiple levels or stairs. Addressing issues directly ensures your deck remains safe and durable.
You should refinish a deck because it needs regular upkeep to maintain its appearance and functionality, especially if you live in a harsh climate. Timely maintenance combats the effects of constant wear and weather exposure. Regular inspections for warping, fading, and water damage alert you to the need for immediate refinishing. Maintaining a consistent schedule reduces repair costs and sustains your deck’s lasting charm and strength.
It's a good idea to restain or refinish your deck every two to three years. The exact timing depends on factors like how much you use your deck and local weather conditions. Keep an eye out for signs that your deck needs attention, such as fading color, splintering, warping, cracking, or mold and mildew growth. Regular maintenance not only keeps your deck looking great but also saves you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.
Choosing between painting and staining your deck depends on your priorities. Painting creates a durable protective layer, with oil-based paints offering excellent moisture resistance and latex-based paints providing strong protection against sunlight. However, paint covers the natural look of the wood. If you prefer to showcase the wood’s beauty, staining is the way to go. Stains penetrate the wood, helping to resist rot, mold, and mildew while allowing the grain to show through. Keep in mind that stains may require more frequent reapplication than paint. Consider what matters most to you—protection, aesthetics, or maintenance—when making your decision.
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