Floor Stripping and Waxing Cost: How It's Priced

Commercial floor stripping and waxing is usually priced per square foot. The price depends on the size of the area, the condition and number of layers of old finish, how many coats of new finish are applied, how much furniture has to be moved and when the work is done. Scheduling regular recoats between full strips keeps the long-run cost lower than stripping often.

What a strip and wax includes

A full floor stripping and waxing job removes the old, worn finish down to the tile with a stripping solution and a floor machine, rinses and neutralizes the floor, then applies sealer and several coats of new finish. The floor stays closed until the finish cures, which is why the work is usually done after hours or over a weekend.

What affects the price

• Square footage. The main input. Large open areas cost less per square foot than many small rooms.
• Condition. Heavy buildup or many old layers take longer to remove.
• Coats. More coats of finish mean a tougher, glossier floor and more time.
• Furniture. Moving desks, shelving or equipment adds labor.
• Timing. Overnight or weekend work is the norm, and some schedules cost more.

Recoat vs full strip

Floor waxing (recoating) adds fresh coats on top of the existing finish after a deep scrub. It's faster and cheaper than a full strip and keeps floors glossy between strips. Most high-traffic floors need a full strip and refinish once or twice a year, with scrubbing and recoats in between.

How to compare quotes

Ask every company for the same scope: total square footage, which rooms, how many coats of finish, whether furniture moving is included, and when the work will happen. Ask how long the floor must stay closed. Then compare the total for the job.

For more on floor care, see our office cleaning checklist and the complete guide to commercial cleaning services. Or request a free quote.