How Much Does Deck Refinishing Cost? [2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average deck refinishing cost is $980, with most homeowners spending $900 to $2,720 depending on deck size, condition, and location. Some small decks cost as low as $500 to refinish, while large, older decks may run $4,600 or more.

Deck Refinishing Cost Factors: What Determines the Price?

Refinishing a deck is well worth the investment, and your overall cost depends primarily on labor, deck size, and the current condition of the wood. Repairs are another major factor that can quickly add to your bill. Staying on top of these factors is one of the best ways to maintain your deck and protect its long-term value.

Size

Professional deck refinishing costs $3 to $7 per square foot, making deck size one of the most direct drivers of your total project cost. The following table breaks down estimated costs by deck 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 to refinish than a large one that's more structurally sound.

Deck Type

The type of material your deck is made from can affect refinishing costs, though the condition of those materials often matters more than the material type itself. Pressure-treated lumber and softwoods are more prone to soft spots that require extra attention during the refinishing process. 

If your decking has some damage, painting or solid staining the surface can help lower the cost of significant repair work. For composite or recycled material decks, refinishing with paint is the only available option.

Labor

Professional work on a 200-square-foot deck runs $600 to $1,400. Going the DIY route can bring that down to $300 to $800, depending on what tools you already own.

Prep Work

Prep work is a necessary step before refinishing a deck, whether you handle it yourself or hire a pro, to ensure a smooth and durable finish. The following table outlines average costs for common deck resurfacing prep tasks:

Cleaning

Professional power washing costs $0.40 per square foot, while renting a power washer runs $70 to $300 per day. Either approach eliminates chipped paint so you start with a smoother surface.

Repairs

The average cost to repair a deck is $2,000, but it can climb to $4,000 or even over $10,000 for larger or severely damaged decks.

Stripping Paint

Removing old paint before applying a new finish ensures the wood absorbs the product properly, and a deck cleaning agent or stripping solution costs $20 to $60 per gallon. A contractor may charge $30 to $50 per hour to strip the wood, though stripping is often included in their total project price. 

Sanding

Sanding creates a smooth surface that accepts the new finish evenly, and renting a power sander costs $40 to $70 per day. Use a power sander for larger areas and a hand sander for edges and corners. You'll also need to pick up a three-pack of sanding discs for around $5.

Staining and Sealing the Deck

Staining a deck can cost $550 to $1,250, while deck sealing adds about $0.50 to $7 per square foot.

Type of Finish

Deck sealants cost $20 to $60 per gallon, depending on the type of finish you choose. Water-based sealants can cost twice as much as oil-based sealants, though they have a shorter lifespan. 

Water-based options are easier to apply and contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them the more environmentally friendly choice. The following table compares average deck refinishing costs by finish type:

Many DIY deck stains come with built-in sealant and cost $40 per gallon. A gallon 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 $100 per day.

Location

Where you live has a direct impact on deck refinishing costs, with higher-cost-of-living areas driving up labor rates. For example, refinishing a deck in Chicago, Illinois, is likely to cost more than the same project in Saint Louis, Missouri. The following table shows average deck refinishing costs by city:

*For a 200-square-foot deck. 

Deck Condition

Your deck's condition is one of the biggest budget variables, with costs ranging from $300 to $10,000 depending on how much work is needed. A deck in good shape that only needs cleaning, sanding, staining, and resealing can be DIYed for $300. A deck in poor condition may require significant repairs, pushing project costs to over $10,000.

Deck Restoration Cost

Deck restoration costs $1,400 to $4,600 on average, covering both repairs and refinishing. The more work the project requires, the higher the final price. Before restoration begins, you'll need a deck inspection for signs of rot, warping, and infestations.

Deck Resurfacing Cost

Resurfacing a standard 200-square-foot deck costs $500 to $1,400, or around $1,000 on average, including sanding and repainting or staining. The final price depends on the type of resurfacing materials used and the overall size of your deck.

Reasons to Refinish Your Deck

There are a few very good reasons to refinish your home's deck area. For one, refinishing your deck will increase its lifespan by at least two to three years. It will also prevent splinters and cracks that can hurt bare feet. A nice refinishing will also, of course, improve your deck's appearance and, therefore, your home's curb appeal. Finally, refinishing your deck is more cost-effective than fully replacing a worn-out-looking deck, which can run $4,500 and $18,000.

Deck Refinishing vs. Deck Replacement

Refinishing costs $900 to $2,700 on average, compared to full deck replacement costs averaging $7,800, making refinishing the more budget-friendly choice when your deck's structure is sound. If the frame is solid and the wood isn't rotting or warped, refinishing can restore its appearance and extend its life for a fraction of replacement costs. 

However, if your deck has significant rot, extensive insect damage, major warping or sagging, or more than 40% of the boards need replacing, a new deck is the safer and more cost-effective long-term investment. Wood decks over 20 years old often reach a point where ongoing repairs and refinishing become a money pit, making replacement the smarter financial choice. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIYing your deck refinishing can save you $300 to $600 on average, but the project demands significant time and energy even when labor costs are eliminated. If you lack experience refinishing decks—or your deck is in poor condition—working with a professional is the smarter choice. Hiring a deck refinishing service near you costs $600 to $1,400, depending primarily on the condition and size of your deck. Here's a breakdown of the costs for refinishing a deck yourself:

Ways to Save on Deck Refinishing Costs

A few targeted steps can meaningfully reduce what you spend on deck refinishing. Here are practical ways to keep costs down:

• DIY the prep work: Handle minor repairs and sanding yourself to cut labor costs.

• Inspect regularly: Check your deck consistently and make routine repairs to keep it in better shape for longer.

• Choose wisely: Select a cost-effective stain with a long lifespan to reduce how often you refinish.

• Compare quotes: Get at least three bids from local contractors to find the best value.

• Use a grease catcher: Grease stains are difficult to remove from deck boards, so protect the surface when grilling.

• Clean annually: Sweep leaves and dirt from your deck at least once a year to prevent wood damage.

• Address spills fast: Clean grease, food, and drink spills immediately to avoid permanent staining.

• Redirect downspouts: Route water away from the deck to prevent moisture damage and rot.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on 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. 

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