Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here’s a simple 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 |
Materials: $4 to $12 per square foot
The cost of hardwood floors depends on the type and quality. Choices include oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, and teak, each with different features and prices.
Domestic Hardwood
Domestic woods like oak, maple, and hickory are common and cost $4 to $8 per square foot. They are strong and versatile, popular with homeowners.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry and teak are known for unique looks and colors, costing $8 to $12 per square foot. They are more expensive but very attractive.
| 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 can be 50% to 70% of the total price. Professional installation makes sure hardwood floors look perfect.
Labor costs usually include putting in the flooring and getting the subfloor ready, plus the finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs care and skill for a smooth look. Installers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot, based on project details and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor can also include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing. These steps make the floors look better and last longer.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Getting the subfloor ready is important for making hardwood floors last long. This process can include leveling surfaces, fixing damage, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is not even, leveling can help create a smooth surface for laying hardwood. Leveling usually costs about $1 to $2 per square foot, based on the work needed.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can harm hardwood floors, so a moisture barrier is important, especially in wet areas. Costs for this are usually between $1 and $2 per square foot.
Removal of Existing Flooring: $1 to $3 per square foot
Before putting in new hardwood floors, old flooring like laminate might need to be taken out. This makes sure the new floor is put on a clean and even surface.
Laminate Removal
Taking out laminate floors might need extra work and tools, with costs between $2 and $3 per square foot.
Summary of hardwood flooring cost breakdown:
Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation
Solid hardwood flooring looks beautiful and lasts a long time. It costs about $11 to $25 per square foot to install, which includes materials and work.
The cost can change based on things like wood type, how hard the installation is, and extra services you might need.
Installation Method
How we install the hardwood also affects the price. Nail-down installation usually costs less than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Sometimes, extra services are needed for installing hardwood flooring, which can change the total cost. This might include getting the floor ready by leveling it or adding a moisture barrier for a smooth finish.
Adding stain or finish to the floors might cost more, but it makes the floors look nicer and last longer.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is strong and flexible, making it a top pick for many homes. Installing it costs about $7 to $20 per square foot, covering both materials and work.
Special wood types or finishes might make it cost more. The thickness of the wood layer also affects the price, with thicker layers usually costing more.
Installation Method
The way you install engineered hardwood can change the cost. Floating floors, which don’t stick to the floor underneath, are usually faster and cheaper than using glue or nails.
If there are challenges like uneven floors or heating systems, it might cost more.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | There are many hardwood types, each with different prices. Common ones include oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Exotic options like Brazilian cherry or teak cost more. |
| Wood Quality | The quality of wood changes the price. Engineered hardwood is usually cheaper than solid wood but looks similar. |
| Installation Method | How you install it affects the cost. Nail-down and glue-down are usually less expensive than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and work, which can cost more. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the floor underneath needs fixing or leveling first, it will add to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders, inlays, or special designs can make it more expensive. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include taking out old floors, leveling, adding underlayment, or putting in baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
For hardwood floor installation, you can choose to hire experts or do it yourself. DIY guide.
Both ways have pros and cons. Knowing them helps you decide based on your budget, skills, and needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros know how to install floors well.
- Efficiency: They work fast with the right tools.
- Warranty: Many offer guarantees on their work.
- Professional Finish: They ensure the floor looks perfect.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring pros costs more money.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY is cheaper because no labor costs.
- Flexibility and control: You work when you want and make changes easily.
- Learn new skills: You gain valuable experience.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes that can make the floor uneven.
- Demanding and time-consuming due to heavy work.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the right hardwood flooring is important. Knowing the costs helps you make a good choice. You don’t have to do it alone.
We are here to guide you with our free consultation. Our flooring installation experts can help you choose the best wood and understand the process. We want you to have floors you love.
Contact us today to set up your free home flooring consultation and check if we serve your area.
