how much to refinish a dining table

If you own a wooden dining table, it’s likely that, with time and use, it will have scratches, water rings, and other blemishes. When such damages occur, many people consider refinishing their dining tables as a cost-effective solution to make them look like new again. However, determining the cost of refinishing the dining table can be overwhelming, and it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to the overall cost of refinishing.

Factors to Consider

The cost of refinishing a dining table varies based on several factors, including the size of the table, the type of wood, the finish type, and the extent of repairs required. The larger the table, the more it will cost to refinish. Similarly, the type of wood used in the table and the finish type can affect the cost of refinishing. For instance, the cost of refinishing a table made of high-end wood, like cherry or mahogany with a high-gloss finish, will be more expensive than a table made of a less expensive and softer wood, like pine, with a matte finish. Additionally, if the table requires extensive repairs, such as replacing the legs or apron, the cost will increase.

Cost Breakdown

On average, the cost of refinishing a dining table ranges from $200 to $700 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. The cost breakdown includes the following:

• Materials- including sandpaper, stain, sealant, and paint- cost between $50 and $200.
• Labor - labor costs range between $50 and $75 per hour, and the refinishing of a table can take between 8 and 10 hours. Depending on the rarity or uniqueness of the table, the hourly cost may increase.
• Shipping - if the table is shipped to a professional refinisher, the cost of shipping is usually added to the total cost, which can range from $50 to $150 or more. This cost depends on the distance of the shipping location from the refinisher.

DIY vs. Professional Refinishing

One way to cut costs is to refinish the table yourself. However, keep in mind that refinishing a wooden dining table can be a laborious and time-consuming process, and it requires a lot of experience and skill to do it right. If you decide to do it yourself, the cost breakdown would include only the materials, which can range from $50 to $200. However, if you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to hire a professional refinisher to avoid damaging the table or having to redo the project completely, which could end up costing you more in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the cost of refinishing a dining table varies depending on factors such as size, wood type, finish type, and extent of repairs, on average, it ranges from $200 to $700 or more. DIY refinishing can help you save on labor costs, but it requires experience and skills. Ultimately, it's important to choose an option that best suits your budget and needs.

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