A professional floor sanding quote should be detailed, transparent, and easy to compare against other quotes. Whether you have solid rimu, pine, or engineered timber floors, knowing what to look for in a quote helps you avoid nasty surprises and ensures the job is done to a high standard.
What the Quote Should Cover at a Glance
A well-written quote is more than just a bottom-line price. It should break down every stage of the job so you know exactly what you're paying for. Here's a summary of the key elements:
| Quote Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Floor area (m²) | Confirms pricing is based on accurate measurements |
| Timber species and condition | Affects sanding method and finish choice |
| Number of sanding passes | More passes = smoother result |
| Finish type and number of coats | Determines durability and appearance |
| Prep and repair work | Nail punching, gap filling, board replacement |
| Dust management method | Dustless vs standard equipment |
| Furniture moving | Included or extra? |
| Drying/curing time | Affects when you can move back in |
| Warranty or guarantee | Covers workmanship and finish adhesion |
| GST | Must be clearly stated |
Floor Area and Timber Assessment
The quote should state the total floor area in square metres that will be sanded. A reputable tradesperson will measure on-site rather than rely on your estimates. They should also note the timber species (e.g. rimu, matai, heart pine, or engineered oak) and the current condition of the floor — whether it's heavily worn, has old coatings, or has cupped or damaged boards. This affects the time, equipment, and products needed.
Preparation and Repair Work
Good prep is what separates a lasting result from one that fails in a year. The quote should clearly list:
- Nail punching – all nail heads set below the surface so they don't tear sanding belts
- Gap filling – whether gaps between boards will be filled (and with what product)
- Board replacement – if damaged boards need replacing, this should be quoted separately
- Removal of old adhesive, paint, or coatings – this can add significant time and cost
If prep work isn't mentioned, ask about it directly.
Sanding Stages and Equipment
Professional floor sanding typically involves multiple passes with progressively finer grits — usually starting coarse (e.g. 24–40 grit) and finishing fine (e.g. 80–120 grit). The quote should indicate how many passes are planned and what equipment will be used. Dustless or low-dust sanding systems are worth asking about, especially in occupied homes or where dust could affect other areas. These systems use vacuum-attached sanders and are better for air quality and cleanup.
Finish Type and Number of Coats
The finish is a major part of the job and the quote should specify:
- Finish type – water-based polyurethane, oil-based polyurethane, hardwax oil, or penetrating oil
- Sheen level – matte, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss
- Number of coats – typically two to three coats, with light sanding between coats
- Brand or product name – reputable tradespeople use quality products; some may use finishes from suppliers like Resene or Wattyl
Water-based finishes dry faster and have lower VOC emissions, while oil-based finishes tend to be more amber in tone and take longer to cure. Ask your tradesperson which suits your floor and lifestyle.
Drying, Curing, and Re-occupancy
The quote should give you a realistic timeline for re-occupancy. Water-based finishes may allow light foot traffic within 24 hours, but full curing can take up to two weeks. Oil-based finishes generally take longer. You'll need to keep pets and furniture off the floor during this period, so knowing the timeline upfront helps you plan.
What's Included — and What's Not
A clear quote will spell out inclusions and exclusions. Common extras that may not be included:
- Moving heavy furniture
- Stair nosings or steps
- Threshold strips between rooms
- Feature borders or inlays
- Repairs to subfloor
Always ask if these apply to your job and get them priced separately if needed.
Pricing, GST, and Payment Terms
All quotes should clearly state whether GST is included or excluded — in NZ, GST is 15% and must be shown separately on any quote from a GST-registered business. The quote should also outline payment terms: deposit required, progress payments, and final payment on completion. Be cautious of any tradesperson asking for full payment upfront.
As a broad guide, floor sanding costs in NZ vary depending on floor condition, finish type, and region — always get at least two or three quotes to compare.
Warranty and Workmanship Guarantee
A professional tradesperson should stand behind their work. Look for a written warranty covering both workmanship and finish adhesion. Ask what's covered if the finish peels, bubbles, or wears unevenly within the warranty period.
When to Call a Professional
Floor sanding is a skilled trade. Hiring an inexperienced operator or attempting a DIY sand with hired equipment can result in uneven floors, chatter marks, or sanding through thin engineered boards — damage that's expensive to fix. For best results, hire a qualified floor sanding professional. You can find local floor sanding tradespeople on tradedirectory.co.nz.
For health and safety on the job — particularly around dust exposure — WorkSafe NZ provides guidance on managing silica and wood dust risks.
