Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here is a simple cost overview 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 material type and quality of hardwood flooring affect the total cost. There are many options like oak, maple, Brazilian cherry, and teak, each with different features and prices.
Domestic Hardwood
Domestic woods like oak, maple, and hickory are easy to find and cost about $4 to $8 per square foot. They are strong and flexible, making them popular with homeowners.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic woods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany are loved for their special grain and deep colors. They cost more, around $8 to $12 per square foot. Many homeowners choose them for 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 right for a perfect look.
Labor costs usually cover installing the flooring and preparing the subfloor and finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs skill for a smooth finish. Installers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on project difficulty and local rates.
Finishing
Labor costs may also include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing the floors. These steps improve how the floors look and last longer.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Getting the subfloor ready is important for making hardwood floors last. This means fixing uneven spots, repairing any damage, and putting in moisture barriers.
Leveling
If the subfloor has bumps or is damaged, smoothing it out might be needed for hardwood. Leveling costs usually range from $1 to $2 per square foot, based on the amount of work.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can harm hardwood over time, so adding a moisture barrier is very important, especially in humid 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 floors like carpet, tile, or laminate might need to be taken out. This makes sure the surface is clean and flat for the new hardwood.
Carpet Removal
Taking out carpet usually costs $1 to $2 per square foot. The cost depends on the carpet type and if there’s padding underneath.
Tile or Laminate Removal
Taking out tile or laminate might need more work and tools, so it costs a bit more, about $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 for installing solid hardwood is usually between $11 and $25 per square foot, which covers materials and labor.
The price can change based on the wood type, how complex the installation is, and any extra services needed.
Installation Method
The way the flooring is installed affects the cost. Traditional nail-down installation is usually cheaper than glue-down or floating methods.
Additional Services
Sometimes, extra services are needed when installing solid hardwood flooring, which can change the total cost. This includes getting the floor ready, like leveling or adding a moisture barrier, to make sure it lasts long.
Adding stain or finish on the hardwood floors might cost more but can make them look better and last longer.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is stable and versatile, a top choice for many homes. Installation costs usually range from $7 to $20 per square foot, covering both materials and labor.
If you choose exotic woods or special finishes, the cost might go up. Thicker veneers also tend to be pricier.
Installation Method
How you install engineered hardwood can change the price. Floating installations often save time and money compared to glue-down or nail-down methods.
Complex installs, like over radiant heating or on uneven floors, might cost extra.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Hardwood comes in many types, each with different prices. Common choices include oak, maple, cherry, and walnut. Exotic options like Brazilian cherry or teak cost more. |
| Wood Quality | The quality affects price. Engineered hardwood is usually less expensive than solid hardwood but looks similar. |
| Installation Method | Installation method affects cost. Nail-down and glue-down are often cheaper than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and labor, so they cost more. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the subfloor needs fixing or leveling, it adds to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders, inlays, or custom designs increase costs. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include removing old floors, leveling the subfloor, changing underlayment, or adding baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
For hardwood flooring, homeowners choose between hiring pros or doing it themselves. DIY project.
Each option has pros and cons. Knowing these helps homeowners pick what fits their budget, skills, and needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Pros have the skills and experience for top-notch installation.
- Efficiency: They use special tools to work fast and avoid errors.
- Warranty: Many offer warranties, so any issues are fixed for free.
- Professional Finish: Pros handle details like sanding and sealing for a great look.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring pros costs more than doing it yourself.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY saves on 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 doing it yourself.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes: Errors can affect the quality, like uneven planks.
- Demanding and time-consuming: Involves hard work and can take a long time.
Ready to Turn Your Hardwood Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking hardwood flooring is important. You know the costs, so you’re closer to making your space perfect. You don’t have to do it alone.
We can guide you with a free meeting with our flooring installation experts. We help you choose wood, understand how to install, and plan your budget so your floors last for years.
Contact us today to set up your free home flooring meeting and check if we serve your area.
