Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Planning a hardwood flooring project? Knowing the costs helps with budgeting. Costs include materials, labor, and more.
Here’s a look at the cost per sq ft:
| Size by Square Feet | Low-End Estimate | Average Cost | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 | $3,000 | $7,750 | $11,500 |
| 1,000 | $6,000 | $14,500 | $23,000 |
| 1,500 | $9,000 | $21,750 | $34,500 |
| 2,000 | $12,000 | $29,000 | $46,000 |
| 2,500 | $15,000 | $36,250 | $57,500 |
| 3,000 | $18,000 | $43,500 | $69,000 |
We offer various flooring types like Carpet, Hardwood, Luxury Vinyl, Laminate, and Tile. Visit our showroom/store to explore more. Financing options are available.
Materials: $4 to $12 per square foot
The type of hardwood affects the total cost. Common choices include oak and maple, while exotic options like Brazilian cherry and teak offer unique looks but at different prices.
Domestic Hardwood
Domestic hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find, costing $4 to $8 per square foot. They are durable and flexible, making them popular with homeowners.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic woods, including Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany, are known for their special grain patterns and deep colors. They cost more, from $8 to $12 per square foot, but many love their unique style.
| Hardwood Species | Average Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) | Average Total Cost per Square Foot (Including Installation) |
|---|---|---|
| Oak | $4 – $8 | $8 – $15 |
| Maple | $5 – $9 | $9 – $16 |
| Hickory | $6 – $10 | $10 – $17 |
| Cherry | $7 – $11 | $11 – $18 |
| Walnut | $8 – $12 | $12 – $19 |
| Ash | $6 – $10 | $10 – $17 |
| Birch | $5 – $9 | $9 – $16 |
| Teak | $9 – $13 | $13 – $20 |
| Mahogany | $10 – $14 | $14 – $21 |
Labor: $4 to $8 per square foot
Labor costs are often 50% to 70% of the total price. Professional installation makes sure your hardwood floors are placed and finished right, giving a perfect look.
Labor costs usually include putting in the flooring and preparing the subfloor and finishing details.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs skill for a smooth finish. Skilled installers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot for labor, based on project difficulty and local rates.
Finishing
Labor costs might also cover tasks like sanding, staining, and sealing the hardwood. These steps make the floors look better and last longer.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Preparing the subfloor is important for keeping hardwood floors stable and lasting long. This may include making surfaces even, fixing damage, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is uneven or damaged, leveling is needed to make it smooth for hardwood.
Leveling usually costs between $1 and $2 per square foot, based on the work needed.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can harm hardwood over time, so adding a moisture barrier is important, especially in areas with high humidity.
Moisture barrier installation usually costs between $1 and $2 per square foot.
Removal of Existing Flooring: $1 to $3 per square foot
Before putting in new hardwood floors, old floors like carpet, tile, or laminate might need to go. Taking out the old floors makes the surface clean and even for the new hardwood.
Carpet Removal
Taking out carpet usually costs $1 to $2 per square foot. The cost depends on the type of carpet and if there is padding underneath.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Removing tile or laminate might need more work and tools, so it costs a bit more, about $2 to $3 per square foot.
Summary of Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown:
- Carpet Removal: $1 – $2 per sq ft
- Tile/Laminate Removal: $2 – $3 per sq ft
- Leveling: $1 – $2 per sq ft
- Moisture Barrier: $1 – $2 per sq ft
- Installation Labor: $4 – $8 per sq ft
- Finishing Services: Usually included in installation or extra if custom stains/sealants are used
Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation
Solid hardwood flooring is known for its classic look and strength. Installing solid hardwood usually costs between $11 to $25 per square foot, which covers materials and labor.
The price can change based on the wood type, how hard the installation is, and any extra services needed.
Installation Method
The way you install it affects the cost of solid hardwood flooring. The traditional nail-down installation is usually cheaper than glue-down or floating installations.
Additional Services
Extra services during installation can change the total cost a lot. These can include:
- Subfloor preparation: leveling bumpy surfaces or fixing damage
- Moisture barrier installation: important in wet areas
- Staining and finishing: improves the floor’s look and life, often costs extra
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is strong and flexible in design, making it popular with homeowners. It usually costs $7 to $20 per square foot for materials and labor.
High-end choices like exotic woods or thick veneers can raise costs. The veneer type and finish affect both cost and lifespan.
Installation Method
The method impacts your total cost:
- Floating floors are usually cheaper and simpler to install.
- Glue-down or nail-down installations might cost more due to extra work and materials.
- Things like radiant heating systems or uneven subfloors can add to the cost.
Factors That Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Prices vary by wood type. Exotic woods (like Brazilian cherry) are pricier than local options (like oak, maple). |
| Wood Quality | Engineered hardwood is usually more affordable than solid wood but looks and performs similarly. |
| Installation Method | Floating floors often cost less to install than glue-down or nail-down methods. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more material and work, which raises the total cost. |
| Subfloor Condition | Fixing, leveling, or protecting the subfloor will add to the overall cost. |
| Additional Features | Borders, inlays, or custom designs can greatly increase the price. |
| Additional Services | These might include removing old flooring, subfloor work, or installing baseboards or underlayment. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
When putting in hardwood flooring, you can hire a professional or do a DIY project. Both have pros and cons based on your budget, time, and tool skills.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros take accurate measurements and align planks perfectly.
- Efficiency: They work fast with the right tools, reducing errors.
- Warranty: Many installs come with a labor warranty.
- Flawless Finish: Includes sanding and sealing for a smooth look.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring a pro adds to the project cost.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Cost Savings: No labor fees, great for small projects or tight budgets.
- Flexible Timing: Work on your schedule.
- Skill Building: Learn new home improvement skills.
Drawbacks
- Quality Risks: Mistakes can affect the final look.
- Physically Demanding: Needs strength and patience, with lots of kneeling or lifting.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the right hardwood flooring is important. Now that you know the main cost factors, you’re closer to making the perfect space. You don’t have to do this alone.
We’re here to help you with hardwood flooring in a free talk with our flooring installation experts. From choosing the best wood to knowing how to install and budget, our team will help you get floors you will love for a long time.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home flooring talk and check if we serve your area.
