Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at 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 |
Materials: $4 to $12 per square foot
Hardwood floor type and quality change the total price. Choices include oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, and teak. Each has different features and prices.
Domestic Hardwood
Woods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find, costing $4 to $8 per square foot. They are strong and liked by many for homes.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany are loved for their special grain and colors. They cost more, $8 to $12 per square foot, but many appreciate their unique look.
| 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 can be half to most of the total cost. Experts make sure hardwood floors are done right for a great look.
Labor costs cover floor installation and any prep work needed for the subfloor and finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs skill for a smooth finish. Skilled workers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot for labor, depending on the job’s complexity and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor might also include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing the hardwood. These steps improve how the floors look and help them last.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Getting the subfloor ready is important for strong and long-lasting hardwood floors. This can mean fixing uneven spots, fixing damage, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is uneven or damaged, it might need leveling for a smooth hardwood surface. Leveling usually costs between $1 and $2 per square foot, depending on what’s needed.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can damage hardwood floors over time, so a moisture barrier is important, especially in wet areas. The cost for a moisture barrier is usually between $1 and $2 per square foot.
Removal of Existing Flooring: $1 to $3 per square foot
Before installing new hardwood floors, old surfaces like carpet, tile, or laminate may need to be removed to prepare the area.
Carpet Removal
Carpet removal costs between $1 and $2 per square foot, based on the type of carpet and padding.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Removing tile or laminate can be more labor-intensive, costing about $2 to $3 per square foot.
Summary of hardwood flooring cost breakdown:
Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation
Solid hardwood flooring is liked for its timeless style and durability. Installing solid hardwood usually costs $11 to $25 per square foot, including materials and labor.
The price can vary based on the type of wood, how hard the installation is, and if you need extra services.
Installation Method
How the flooring is put in affects the cost. Traditional nail-down is usually less expensive than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Extra work might be needed for installing hardwood, which can change the total cost. This could include getting the floor ready, like leveling or adding a moisture barrier, to help it last longer.
Staining or finishing the floors might cost more but can enhance their look and durability.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is stable and flexible, a favorite for homes. It usually costs $7 to $20 per square foot for materials and work.
Special woods or finishes can make it pricier. Thicker veneer options are also more costly.
Installation Method
The way you install engineered hardwood affects the price. Floating installations are often cheaper and faster than glue-down or nail-down ones.
Complex installs, like over heated floors or uneven surfaces, can cost more.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Different wood types have different prices, like oak, maple, or walnut. Exotic ones, like Brazilian cherry, cost more. |
| Wood Quality | Wood quality changes the price. Engineered hardwood is cheaper than solid wood but looks similar. |
| Installation Method | The method you choose affects cost. Nail-down and glue-down are often cheaper than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and work, which costs more. |
| Subfloor Condition | Fixing or leveling a subfloor adds to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders or custom designs can make it more expensive. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include taking out old floors, leveling, replacing underlayment, or adding baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
When thinking about installing hardwood floors, people can hire pros or try a do-it-yourself project.
Each choice has its ups and downs. Knowing these can help people pick what fits their budget, skills, and needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros know how to install floors well.
- Efficiency: They use special tools to work fast and on time.
- Warranty: Many offer guarantees, so any problems get fixed for free.
- Professional Finish: They handle all details, making floors look perfect.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring pros costs more upfront.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY saves on labor costs.
- Flexibility and control: You decide the pace and changes.
- Learn new skills: Gain experience in the process.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes that can affect floor quality.
- Demanding and time-consuming work that needs lifting and kneeling.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Choosing hardwood flooring matters. Knowing prices helps you get a great space. We’re here to assist you.
We’d love to help with a free chat with our flooring installation experts. From picking wood to learning about setup and costs, we’re here to make sure you get floors you adore.
Contact us today to arrange your free at-home flooring consultation and see if we serve your area.
