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Find a ContractorInstalling brand new flooring in your home is a great way to increase your ROI and market value. It’s also a fantastic way to elevate your living space and make it shine. While flooring installation may be a popular DIY project, it’s not as simple as you think. You will likely have to hire a contractor or flooring company for this project to ensure the job is done safely and correctly, plus knowing how much flooring installation costs may sway you to let someone professional handle it. On average, flooring costs between $1,500 and $4,500 with an average price of about $3,000 to cover a 500-square-foot space.
The cost of your project will vary depending on factors like your home’s location, the type of flooring you choose and which flooring contractor you hire.
On average, flooring installation costs vary, from less than $1 per square foot for laminate flooring, for example, to more than $10 per square foot for higher-end brands. Hardwood flooring is the most expensive material to install (close to $10 per square foot or more).
Tile can cost close to $2 per square foot but can cost hundreds of dollars for higher-end tile. You’re less likely to see those prices, as most tile prices are cheaper on average than hardwood, which is one of the reasons why it’s a popular wood floor alternative.
Carpet is another option to consider for flooring if your budget is tight. You can find basic indoor carpet for as low as $.65 per square foot, while premium carpet can go as high as $12 or more per square foot.
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Learn MoreIf you are trying to figure out how much it will cost to install your flooring, take the time to consider the look that you want in your home. The price of your new floors is dependent on the material you choose. For instance, materials like hardwood, ceramic, porcelain and stone tile are typically more expensive, while options like laminate, linoleum or vinyl are more affordable.
Hardwood flooring is gorgeous, making it worth the investment. Hardwood floors are built to last, with decades of beauty and value. They may be damaged by water or humidity but can be treated with a finish to help them maintain their shine and durability for years to come. Hardwood flooring can cost anywhere from $7 to $23 per square foot, depending on your choice in hardwood.
Average Cost Per Square Foot to Install Hardwood Flooring
Tile is a great flooring option since it can completely change the look of your room, while withstanding high traffic areas. However, tile costs tend to be high, with the average cost being $6 to $20 per square foot. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are more expensive than tiles made out of other materials. Customized options will also increase the price.
Carpet is a cushier, yet low-maintenance and low-cost flooring option, averaging at $3.50 to $11 per square foot. If you want to go for a nicer option, or a more luxe feel, expect to pay significantly more.
Vinyl is a common option for basement or kitchen floors since they can have high traffic. Vinyl can be easily maintained and cleaned, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns, but may need to be repaired or replaced faster than other materials. On average, vinyl flooring costs between $3 and $7 per square foot.
If you need a floor that’s durable and easy to maintain, laminate is an excellent choice. You’ll get the appearance of hardwood or stone at a fraction of the cost, typically around $3 to $10 per square foot. It can also be easily refinished if something happens to your floor during installation.
Like vinyl, linoleum is an excellent alternative to carpet since it’s incredibly hard-wearing and easy to clean. Popular for busy kitchens, bathrooms and other areas of the home where traffic is heavy, linoleum is a very low-maintenance and cost-efficient flooring type ranging between $3 to $7 per square foot.
Nowadays, there are many sustainable options for flooring. Bamboo is a smart choice since it requires fewer resources to produce than hardwood and can be recycled at the end of its lifespan. Plus, it’s naturally pest-resistant and requires no additional treatments like pressure-treated wood. It’s also easy to care for, so you won’t have to worry about high maintenance costs. However, bamboo costs around $5 to $15 per square foot.
Cork is a popular choice for those who care about sustainability and cleanliness, as cork flooring offers antimicrobial and hypoallergenic features (great for a kid’s room). This type of flooring costs, on average, $5 to $12 per square foot,
Not only is polished concrete flooring an affordable option, with costs ranging from $2 to $8 per square foot, but it is also a tough, resilient surface perfect for high-traffic areas. It will last for decades, requires minimal maintenance and can withstand moisture damage.
Labor Cost for Floor Installation
Typically, professional flooring installation rates vary from $0.60 to $4 per square foot. However, this rate does not include materials or extra work like removing old flooring or moving furniture before starting. Labor costs will also depend on the type of flooring you choose and the number of rooms you’re installing.
Factors That Affect Flooring Costs
There are many elements that can vary your flooring installation costs, including materials, labor, underlayment and more.
From contractor-grade laminate flooring and basic carpeting to the latest, greatest exotic hardwood and premium, brand-name tile, your materials will likely be one of the biggest variables that affects flooring installation cost per square foot.
Shop around and get acquainted with each material’s pricing, then find a warehouse or supplier that can sell you the flooring at wholesale price. Here’s a flooring price comparison for materials.
Labor costs also will vary your flooring installation cost, as there are many levels of labor you can go for. A contractor with a small business and does the job firsthand will cost differently than a contractor who’s assigned to you from a big-box store. Most of the time, larger stores will be more expensive, but depending on the job and the area, that small-business contractor may charge more.
In general, here’s how much you can expect to pay for labor per square foot for different types of flooring:
Underlayment is a crucial step to flooring installation. No matter which type of flooring you choose, you’ll have to factor in additional costs for underlayment or padding. Padding is laid underneath carpet for additional comfort and support, as well as to absorb spills. You’ll see it come in three or four price points, from basic contractor-grade options to premium padding and foam.
Underlayment is required for tile installation to prevent cracking and uneven surfacing, while hardwood flooring needs underlayment in order to get that smooth finish and cut down on noise from foot traffic. 500 square feet of underlayment for material like tile or hardwood costs $25 on average, while carpet padding runs between $0.25 and $0.90 per square foot at big box stores.
While some contractors offer this service for no charge, others don’t. Still, others may expect you to do it yourself or hire a different company to handle it. Be sure to check with your flooring contractor to determine what costs you may be facing for the disposal and removal of your existing flooring.
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Find a ContractorAside from underlayment, you’ll need to factor in any extra materials as well. This is particularly the case with hardwood flooring, where you may need extra wood to install on stairs, as well as quarter rounds, nose molding, trim and other pieces. You may want to estimate 10% to 15% extra wood for incidentals if you’ll be ordering your materials rather than your contractor. While it may be cheaper to order materials yourself, a lack of knowledge when it comes to ordering the right parts and estimating extras could derail your project.
Size of Flooring Needed
Flooring is usually one of the most expensive home improvement projects. The size of the floor or the surface being installed will impact your costs. For instance, installing 2,000 square feet of hardwood will cost much more than 200 square feet of tile in a bathroom.
Function of the Area
When you’re looking for flooring, prioritize function first. The size and layout of your home can guide your choice of flooring to suit your needs. It’s essential to consider cost and durability when selecting the type of material for your room.
Assuming the materials and labor costs listed above, the average cost to install flooring in a 500-square-foot living space is:
How Much Does It Cost to Install Floors Yourself?
Installing new flooring is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re handy. Most homeowners choose to install their own floors, as you can save a lot of money by doing so. On average, installing the flooring yourself costs $0.50 to $15 per square foot for materials, not including your prep and labor time. Plus, you can have complete control over the process. Have fun working on something that’s yours while saving significant money along the way.
Your flooring is an integral part of your home, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. Some signs that you need new flooring includes when it becomes outdated, exhibits signs of wear and tear or emits unusual noises and odors. We’ll go into more detail below.
When it comes to your home, the condition and appearance of your flooring play a pivotal role in defining the ambiance of your home. Therefore, when your current flooring shows signs of aging, wear or appears outdated, it often signals the need for replacement. However, installing new flooring goes beyond aesthetics; it’s also about ensuring the overall functionality and safety of your living space.
Aside from its aesthetic benefits, replacing outdated flooring can enhance the practical aspects of your space, offering increased durability and ease of maintenance. Whether your goal is to revamp your home’s ambiance or meet specific functional requirements, upgrading your flooring is a significant step in achieving these objectives.
The flooring in your home is not just for looks—it’s a crucial part of the structure of your home and should be treated as such. Uneven surfaces and cracks in your flooring can pose serious safety hazards and may signal underlying structural problems. When you observe your floor displaying these issues, it’s crucial to address them promptly. Neglecting such problems may lead to accidents or further damage, not to mention it can be costly to repair in the long run. Taking timely action to address unevenness and cracks is essential for maintaining a safe and stable living environment.
If you hear strange noises or you smell a foul odor coming from your flooring, it’s a good idea to have your flooring checked out. It could mean there are hidden problems that need to be addressed. For example, creaking or squeaking may indicate loose or damaged subflooring, while musty or unpleasant odors may be a sign of water damage or mold. In such cases, replacing the floor may be necessary to eliminate these issues and maintain healthy living conditions.
Benefits of New Flooring
New floors can make a home feel like it is new. Outdated styles and stains, burns, cracks and general wear take their toll on floors. Getting an updated design or changing the style will make you feel better about your home’s overall décor. Here are some other benefits of getting new floors:
Increase in Home Value
New flooring can add value to your home and make it feel like a new place. For instance, installing hardwood flooring is one of the best upgrades you could ever do for your home. Not only is it beautiful and timeless, but choosing a solid hardwood floor will increase the value of your home.
Improved Looks
New flooring is one of the simplest ways to make your home feel brand new without a significant renovation. Not only does it bring in style, but it also allows you to choose a material that matches the décor and design of your room.
You should be able to get the most enjoyment out of your indoor and outdoor spaces. From high-performance laminates, bamboo, hardwood, porcelain tile and natural stone, new flooring can provide exceptional durability and stunning beauty—two must-haves for any flooring.
When you decide to install a new floor, how you approach the project is a crucial decision. If you’re contemplating whether to hire a professional flooring installer or do the work yourself, there are many factors to consider when making this choice.
DIY flooring installation is a cost-effective option for those looking to save on labor expenses. This approach is particularly practical if you have prior experience in flooring installation and feel confident in your abilities, allowing you to not only save costs but also gain a sense of accomplishment. Not to mention, the flexibility to set your own pace and work according to your schedule is more convenient for those with busy lives.
Choosing to DIY can be a great option, but there are some essential factors to consider. For example, complex flooring types can present challenges above your skill level, or you may not have the right tools and materials for the job. Not to mention the time-intensive nature of this project can also be a drawback. Finally, there are no professional warranties on your work, which means that if something goes wrong after installation, you’ll be responsible for it.
If you’re looking for quality, efficiency and peace of mind, it can be a wise decision to hire a professional floor installer. Seasoned professionals bring not only their expertise but also industry knowledge, guaranteeing a high-quality installation that meets industry standards. The convenience of hiring professionals is undeniable. It not only saves time but also alleviates the stress associated with the project. Professional installation will bring on the added cost of labor expenses, which can significantly impact the project’s overall price, but this is typically worth it.
If you’re in the market for a new flooring install, there’s no need to break the bank. Here are a few tips for saving money on new floors, from laying tile or hardwood to refinishing your existing carpet.
Doing some prep work before you hire a contractor can save you money. You could save up to $3.50 per square foot by removing the old floors yourself. But only do it if you plan to keep the subflooring in good condition.
Lighten the load by doing some of the hard work yourself. You and a friend can move furniture out of your room and clear the area for new flooring installation, saving money compared to hiring an installation crew.
Regarding flooring, it’s essential to consider both the quality and cost of the materials. For instance, the least expensive floors could be the most appealing at the time, but their low quality could cause you to have to replace them within a few years. You can save money on flooring installation and maintenance costs over time by buying good quality but less expensive materials.
To arrive at the average costs in this article, editorial team members surveyed a range of providers on national and local levels. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
With a wide variety of flooring options and flooring types, the cost of flooring varies greatly. It can change by the manufacturer, the square footage in your home and the quality of flooring you install.
In fact, it can also vary based on flooring designs, added patterns and even if you lay flooring at a diagonal, requiring more materials. Flooring costs can even alter by season along with installation costs, also addressed in this guide. When calculating the cost of flooring, it is important to understand the entire cost of your project.
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When you begin your search for the perfect flooring option, knowing your budget is key. In order to better guide you on your search, here is a complete guide on average flooring costs by type.
Hardwood flooring makes an excellent investment for a home. Hardwood flooring offers a timeless appearance and the visuals and construction have been updated over time.
Hardwood floors can be quite versatile as well, fitting many types of climates and environments. For example, solid hardwoods excel especially well in mild climates with low humidity.
In addition, hardwoods come in various species, surface treatments, stain finishes and plank widths. Hardwood floors, both solid and engineered, typically offer planks that come in three-inch to seven-inch widths. These types of floors vary greatly, depending on the type of wood or, in the case of engineered hardwoods, the top wood veneer.
Low-cost options are typically narrow width, smooth surface solid options in species that are easily sourced, such as oak, as well as engineered planks with a very thin wearlayer. You can expect to pay around $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot of product plus additional installation costs.
Mid-range hardwood options include oak species in solid or engineered in a 4" or 5" width, with light surface treatment options and can cost $5.00 to $10.00 per square foot plus installation costs.
High-end hardwoods, like harder species such as hickory, maple and walnut, are wide width and/or offer multiple surface treatments to include scraping and distressing. Engineered options in these species with very thick wear layers also fall in this category and can start around $8.00 per square foot plus additional installation costs.
Engineered hardwood flooring has lately become a popular option that has a natural hardwood top layer for a visual identical to solid hardwood. Together with multiple core layers, engineered wood floors are less likely to cup when confronted with moisture. and have the stunning authenticity of natural hardwood.
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Waterproof flooring makes a fantastic, durable option, especially for homeowners with pets and kids. Pet owners can rest easy, knowing that newly adopted, yet-to-be-house trained puppy is okay to roam freely while you’re at work for the day.
Some of these durable, waterproof options include luxury vinyl planks and luxury vinyl tiles (LVPs and LVTs), as well as vinyl sheet flooring.
Waterproof flooring is one of the most loved flooring types by homeowners everywhere. Please note, however, there is a difference between waterproof and water-resistant flooring.
With such a wide range of options for waterproof flooring, the cost can vary. LVPs and LVTs can be as low as $1.75 to $5.75 per square foot, which fluctuates according to thickness, core construction, wear layer, and warranty parameters.
On the other hand, if it’s sheet vinyl flooring you desire, this can run between $.75 to $1.99 per square foot, which is more affordable than the aforementioned. The fluctuation of sheet vinyl is typically due to the gauge (thickness), backing, and level of design detail, such as embossing, that is achieved with modern technology.
As mentioned, luxury vinyl planks and tiles are a great option for any high traffic room of the home. Cost-wise, they are an excellent and more affordable alternative to wood, stone and ceramics.
According to certain home improvement sites, the average cost of LVPs and LVTs is between $1.75 and $5.75 per square foot and breaks down as follows:
Low-cost LVP prices range from $1.75 to $3.00 per square foot, but most require adhesive and are thinner construction, without waterproof properties.
Mid-range LVP flooring can run on average $3.50 to $4.50 per square foot and may be a happy medium if you’re looking for a lower cost product that can handle topical spills with water resistant properties.
High-end LVP flooring costs start around $5.00 per square foot, often lasting much longer and is also durable enough for light commercial settings.
In comparison to luxury vinyl floors, vinyl sheet flooring is an attractive and affordable option for homeowners.The recent addition of felt backing to many collections allows fast, glueless installation which is cost effective.
The one disadvantage to vinyl sheet flooring lies in its size. If you create an unsightly accident on the vinyl, it’s not as simple as replacing a plank or tile. It requires carefully cutting away the section and inserting a matching piece or, alternatively, replacing the entire sheet and floor, which is expensive in itself.
According to RemodelingExpense, standard vinyl sheet flooring costs rest in the range of $1.75 to $5.75 per square foot. This is a fraction of the price compared to LVPs and LVTs.
To better understand this range, here is what you can expect:
Low-cost vinyl is a thinner gauge, and designs are less realistic, but offered in stone and wood looks. It can cost as low as $0.50, but the average lies around $2.50 per square foot along with the additional cost of installation.
Mid-range is a medium thickness with fiberglass construction in fairly realistic wood and stone visuals. For something of this nature, the average price is $3.30 per square foot plus separate installation costs.
High-end vinyl can reach $4 per square foot, but these are typically much more elegant with embossed, realistic texture and designs. The gauge (thickness) is very heavy, includes a textile backing and additional warranties to cover rips, tears and mold growth may be included. Glueless installation saves on costs and can handle subfloor imperfections.
Often confused with vinyl flooring, laminate flooring is constructed of a core made out of wood composite materials.
While not waterproof, some laminate flooring options can be water-resistant, meaning you should address any spills immediately. Although this is a common misconception, its top layer offers plenty of durability, preventing the topical wear and tear. Due to this difference, it can offer a more budget-friendly option for those who do not need it to be a waterproof floor.
For the busy households of parents and pet owners, laminate flooring is a great choice, as it’s stain-resistant, fade-resistant and indentation-resistant. When it comes to cost, a quality laminate product can offer the same authentic visual as genuine hardwoods, but at a more affordable price.
Because laminate flooring is comprised of multiple synthetic layers that are bonded together, the cost is more affordable than hardwood flooring. Basically, this allows you to have the look and feel of hardwoods at a much lower cost.
According to some sources laminate hardwood flooring costs can range from $2.50 to $4.00 per square foot and and are dependent on the quality of the wear layer and core construction.
Low-cost laminate flooring has a low mm thickness and ranges in price from $2.50 to $3.00 per square foot.
Mid-range laminate flooring has a thickness of about 10mm, with prices reaching more around $3.00 to $3.75 per square foot.
High-end laminate flooring, with about 12-14 mm thickness costs anywhere from $3.75 or more per square foot, and usually includes an attached pad and a locking system to eliminate underlayment and adhesives.
Usually when you sit down with a retailer to discuss your budget and the cost of your flooring project, the installation and necessary finishing accessories will be included. However, there may be unforeseen circumstances in your space that will add cost to both the materials used and the additional time will drive labor costs upward. For example, your subfloor might need a little extra prep to smooth out imperfections, or it may need very involved prep and leveling products to correct uneven or damaged areas. Other costs to consider are the tear out and removal of the older floor, as well as the temporary removal and replacement of furniture. Worst case, your subfloor and floor joists may have moisture damage, which may even require a different contractor before you can get started. When your retailer sends a technician to your home to measure, the space should be assessed and inspected to determine the necessary requirements for a smooth installation.
Aside from addressing preexisting conditions, installation costs can vary per square foot, based on the type of flooring, and the installation method required. Costs will be higher for products that require adhesive, are difficult to handle, or require underlayment. You might pay more for a product with an attached pad, but it could pay off with savings on underlayment material and labor costs.
Hardwood flooring can cost about $3.50 to $4.50 per square foot for installation, based on a nailed, glued or floating application. Vinyl sheet floors can be installed for $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot depending on whether it is full-spread glued, parameter glued, or it has a textile backing for floating. Laminate and vinyl planks or tiles will cost $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot to install and pricing can fluctuate based on the locking mechanism, use of adhesive and the product’s ability to camouflage subfloor imperfections for the omission of extra prep work. Remember, you may incur separate charges for moldings, specialty adhesives, vapor barriers and underlayment. Stair encasements should be priced out separately and will vary based on customization requirements.
With all these different flooring options within a wide range of costs, it might seem easy to just pick a cheap flooring type and quickly install the flooring yourself. However, flooring that is too cheap is most likely made from a low-quality or discontinued material. Additionally, these poor materials do not have the proper environmental certifications that high-quality flooring options have. So, although it might seem like a daunting task, it’s important to do your research when shopping instead of choosing the quickest option. Our flooring experts are also happy to assist with any questions you may have, from installation requests to sample order questions.
As you can see, there is a wide variety of flooring options and flooring types.
The best place to start is this guide, which should help in determining the flooring manufacturer you prefer, deciding on a flooring type that fits your budget and, at the end of the day, a style that fits your home and family as well.
Once you have determined your preferences, the next step is to choose the right flooring dealer. Reach out to local, reputable dealers and stop by their showrooms to get a true sense of the flooring.
For convenience, Twenty & Oak offers a dealer locator. Just type in your zip code and you’ll receive a list of dealers in your local area. From there, you can navigate a map to find Premium, Select and Standard dealers, each independently owned and operated with a physical showroom you can visit in person.
At the dealer’s store, you can touch and feel the product. Speak with them about the options you’re considering and take advantage of their professional installation services as well. They offer invaluable advice and can steer you in the right direction to the perfect flooring.
Interested in multiple flooring options? Reach out to the Twenty&Oak team today and we can send samples straight to your home.