Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here’s a quick 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 kind and quality of hardwood flooring affect the total cost. Hardwood choices include oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, and teak. Each type has different features and costs.
Domestic Hardwood
Domestic hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find and cost $4 to $8 per square foot. They are strong and flexible, making them a favorite for homes.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany have special grain patterns and colors. They cost more, from $8 to $12 per square foot, but many people like 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 costs can be 50% to 70% of the total price. Expert installation makes sure hardwood flooring is placed right for a perfect finish.
Labor costs usually include putting in the flooring and getting the subfloor ready with finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs skill for a smooth look. Skilled installers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot, based on project difficulty and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor may cover services like sanding and sealing, enhancing the look and strength of floors for lasting beauty.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Preparing the subfloor is important for making hardwood floors last. This may involve leveling, fixing damage, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is uneven or broken, leveling helps create a flat surface for hardwood. Leveling costs usually range from $1 to $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 damp areas. The cost for this is 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 tile or laminate might need to be taken out. This makes sure the new floor is smooth and even.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Taking out tile or laminate floors might need extra work and tools, which can make the cost a bit higher, between $2 to $3 per square foot.
Summary of hardwood flooring cost breakdown:
Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation
Solid hardwood flooring is known for its classic look and strength. Installing it usually costs between $11 to $25 per square foot, including materials and labor.
Prices can vary due to factors like wood type, installation difficulty, and extra services needed.
Installation Method
The way you install the hardwood affects the cost. Nail-down is usually cheaper than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Extra services might be needed for a smooth installation, like leveling the floor or adding a moisture barrier. This can change the total cost.
Staining or finishing the floors might cost more but can make them look better and last longer.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is a flexible and stable choice, liked by many homeowners. The cost for installing it usually ranges from $7 to $20 per square foot, covering materials and labor.
Exotic woods or special finishes can make costs go up. You can also pick veneer thickness, with thicker ones costing more.
Installation Method
The way you install engineered hardwood flooring affects the cost. Floating installations, where planks aren’t fixed to the floor, are usually faster and cheaper than glue-down or nail-down methods.
Complex installations, like over radiant heating or uneven floors, might cost extra.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Hardwood flooring comes in different types with various price ranges. Common ones are oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Exotic woods, like Brazilian cherry, usually cost more. |
| Wood Quality | Wood quality affects price. Engineered hardwood is often less costly than solid hardwood but looks similar. |
| Installation Method | Installation method changes costs. Nail-down and glue-down are usually cheaper than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and work, so they cost more. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the subfloor needs fixing or leveling, it adds to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders or custom designs can raise costs. |
| Additional Services | Other services include removing old flooring, leveling the subfloor, replacing underlayment, or installing baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
Homeowners can choose between getting a professional to install hardwood flooring or doing it themselves.Learn DIY tips here.
Each option has its own perks and challenges. Knowing these helps you decide based on your budget and skills.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Experts know how to install hardwood perfectly.
- Efficiency: They work fast and avoid mistakes.
- Warranty: Many offer a warranty for their work.
- Professional Finish: They handle all finishing touches neatly.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring pros costs more than DIY.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY is cheaper, especially for small jobs.
- Flexibility and control: You can work at your own pace.
- Learn new skills: You gain experience by doing it yourself.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes that could make the floor uneven.
- Demanding and time-consuming because it involves hard work.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the best hardwood flooring is important. Knowing the costs means you’re closer to making a great space. You don’t have to do it by yourself.
We want to help you explore hardwood flooring in a free talk with our flooring installation experts. From choosing wood to understanding installation and budgeting, we’re here to help you get floors you’ll love for a long time.
Contact us today to set up your free home flooring consultation and check if we serve your area.
