Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here’s a simple 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
The type of hardwood affects the cost. You can choose from common woods like oak and maple or special ones like Brazilian cherry and teak. Each type has its own look and price.
Domestic Hardwood
Woods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find and cost about $4 to $8 per square foot. They’re strong and fit many styles, so they’re a favorite for homes.
Exotic Hardwood
Special woods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany have unique patterns and colors. They cost more, about $8 to $12 per square foot. Many people love their special 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 correctly for a perfect look.
Labor costs usually cover putting in the flooring and getting the subfloor ready, plus any final details.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs care and skill for a smooth finish. Skilled installers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot for labor, depending on project details and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor might include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing the 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 to keep hardwood floors stable and lasting long. This prep might involve leveling, fixing damages, and adding moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor is uneven or has damage, leveling can make it smooth for hardwood. Leveling usually costs $1 to $2 per square foot, depending on what needs to be done.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can harm hardwood over time, so adding a moisture barrier is key, especially where it’s damp or humid. This usually costs $1 to $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 be taken out. Taking out old floors helps make a clean, even place for new hardwood.
Carpet Removal
Taking out carpet usually costs $1 to $2 for each square foot, based on the kind of carpet and padding underneath.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Taking out tile or laminate floors might need more work and tools, costing $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 toughness. The cost to install solid hardwood usually ranges from $11 to $25 per square foot, covering both materials and labor.
The price varies based on wood type, how complex the installation is, and any extra services needed.
Installation Method
How the flooring is installed also affects the cost. The traditional nail-down method is usually cheaper than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Sometimes extra work is needed when installing solid hardwood floors, which can raise the total cost. This includes getting the floor ready, like leveling it or adding a moisture barrier, to make sure the floor is smooth and lasts long.
Staining or finishing the floors might cost more but can make the floors look better and last longer.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is strong and flexible, a favorite for many homes. Installing it costs about $7 to $20 per square foot, covering materials and work.
Special wood or finishes might cost more. Thicker veneers in engineered wood can also raise prices.
Installation Method
The way you install engineered hardwood affects the price. Floating installations, where planks don’t stick to the floor, are often cheaper and faster than glue-down or nail-down methods.
Extra challenges, like heating under the floor or uneven surfaces, might add more costs.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Hardwood comes in many types, each with different prices. Common ones are oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry or teak cost more. |
| Wood Quality | Wood quality affects price. Engineered hardwood is often cheaper 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 | Big rooms need more materials and work, costing more. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the subfloor needs fixing before installation, this adds to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders or custom designs can make it cost more. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include removing old floors, fixing the subfloor, adding underlayment, or putting in baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
Homeowners often choose between hiring experts or doing a DIY project for hardwood flooring installation.
Knowing the pros and cons helps homeowners decide based on budget, skills, and needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros have the skills and experience for quality installation.
- Efficiency: They use tools to finish quickly, reducing errors or delays.
- Warranty: Many offer guarantees, addressing issues at no extra cost.
- Professional Finish: Installers handle finishing touches for a perfect look.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Professional installation is usually more expensive than DIY.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY reduces labor costs, good for small areas.
- Flexibility and control: Work at your own pace and make changes as needed.
- Learn new skills: Gain experience through the process.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes like uneven planks or poor finishing.
- Demanding and time-consuming with heavy lifting and kneeling.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the right hardwood flooring is important. You now know the main cost factors, bringing you closer to creating a great space. You don’t have to do it alone.
We’d love to guide you through hardwood flooring with a free consultation with our flooring installation experts. From choosing the right wood to learning about installation and budgeting, our team will ensure you get floors you’ll love.
Contact us today to book your free in-home flooring consultation and see if we serve your area.
