Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here is 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 type of hardwood flooring can change how much a project costs. Options include oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, and teak. Each has different features and prices.
Domestic Hardwood
Domestic hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find and usually cost $4 to $8 per square foot. They are strong and flexible, making them a favorite among homeowners.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry and teak are known for their special grain and colors. They cost more, about $8 to $12 per square foot. Still, many 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. Professional installation makes sure hardwood floors are placed and finished well, giving a perfect look.
Labor fees often cover putting in the flooring and getting the subfloor ready, plus finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs skill for a smooth look. Skilled installers might ask for $4 to $8 per square foot for labor, depending on project details and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor costs might include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing hardwood floors. 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 sure hardwood floors last a long time. This includes fixing uneven spots, repairing damage, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is not even or is damaged, leveling can make it smooth for installing hardwood. The cost for leveling is usually between $1 and $2 per square foot, depending on the work needed.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can harm hardwood floors over time, so adding a moisture barrier is key, especially in wet areas. Costs for moisture barriers 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 floors like tile or laminate might need to be taken out. This makes sure the new hardwood has a smooth surface to go on.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Taking out tile or laminate floors might need more work and tools, so the cost is a bit higher, from $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. The cost to install solid hardwood usually ranges from $11 to $25 per square foot, including materials and work.
The price changes based on the wood type, installation difficulty, and extra services needed.
Installation Method
How the flooring is installed affects the cost too. Nail-down installation is usually cheaper than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Sometimes, extra work is needed during installation, affecting the total cost. This includes preparing the floor, like leveling or adding a moisture barrier, for a smooth and lasting finish.
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 stable and versatile, making it a top pick for homeowners. It costs around $7 to $20 per square foot, including materials and labor.
Exotic woods or special finishes might cost more. Thicker veneers are usually pricier.
Installation Method
How you install the flooring affects the cost. Floating installations are usually faster and cheaper than glue-down or nail-down methods.
Complex installations, like over radiant heat or uneven floors, may cost more.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Different wood types have different prices. Common types are oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry are more expensive. |
| Wood Quality | Wood quality affects price. Engineered hardwood is often less expensive than solid hardwood but looks similar. |
| Installation Method | Installation methods like nail-down and glue-down usually cost less than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and work, which costs more. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the subfloor needs fixing before installation, it will cost more. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders or custom designs can increase the cost. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include removing old floors, leveling the subfloor, or installing baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
For hardwood flooring, homeowners can either hire experts or try a DIY approach.
Knowing the pros and cons of each choice helps homeowners decide based on budget, skills, and project needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros have the skill for precise, high-quality hardwood installation.
- Efficiency: They use special tools to finish quickly, minimizing errors or delays.
- Warranty: Many provide guarantees on work, ensuring any problems are fixed free.
- Professional Finish: They also do finishing tasks like sanding and sealing for a perfect look.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring professionals is usually more expensive than doing it yourself.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY reduces labor costs, especially in small spaces.
- Flexibility and control: Work at your own pace and make changes as needed.
- Learn new skills: Gain experience by doing the project yourself.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes that can lower flooring quality, like uneven planks.
- Demanding and time-consuming due to heavy lifting and long hours on your knees.
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 your space perfect. You don’t have to do it alone.
We’d be happy to help you explore hardwood flooring in a free talk with our flooring installation experts. From choosing the right wood to learning about installation and costs, we’re here to ensure you get floors you’ll enjoy for years.
Reach out to us today to book your free at-home flooring talk and check if we cover your area.
