Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakdown
Here is a quick view of 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 and quality of hardwood affect the cost. Choose from common woods like oak and maple or unique ones like Brazilian cherry and teak. Each type has its own features and price.
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, which makes them popular for homes.
Exotic Hardwood
Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry, teak, and mahogany have unique looks and deep colors. They cost more, about $8 to $12 per square foot. Many people love them for their special beauty.
| 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 a big part of the total price. Expert installers ensure hardwood floors are done right for the best results.
Labor usually includes installing the flooring and preparing the base with finishing touches.
Installation
Installing hardwood floors needs careful work for a smooth finish. Skilled workers might charge $4 to $8 per square foot for labor, depending on project difficulty and local rates.
Finishing
Besides installation, labor may include finishing services like sanding, staining, and sealing. These steps improve appearance and durability.
Subfloor Preparation: $1 to $2 per square foot
Getting the subfloor ready is key to keeping hardwood floors in good shape. This can include leveling surfaces, repairing damage, and adding moisture protection.
Leveling
If the subfloor has uneven spots or damage, it needs leveling to make it smooth for hardwood. This usually costs $1 to $2 per square foot, depending on the work needed.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can damage hardwood floors, so adding a moisture barrier is important, especially in damp areas. The cost for this is usually $1 to $2 per square foot.
Removal of Existing Flooring: $1 to $3 per square foot
Before installing new hardwood floors, old floors like tile or laminate may need to be removed. This ensures the surface is clean and level for the new hardwood.
Removing Tile or Laminate
Taking out tile or laminate floors may require more work and tools, costing about $2 to $3 per square foot.
Hardwood Flooring Cost Summary:
Solid Hardwood Flooring Installation
Solid hardwood flooring looks classic and is very strong. It usually costs $11 to $25 per square foot to install, with materials and work included.
The price depends on the wood type, how tricky the installation is, and if extra help is needed.
Installation Method
The installation method changes the cost. Nail-down is often less expensive than glue-down or floating.
Additional Services
Extra services might be needed for solid hardwood flooring, which can increase the price. This can include preparing the floor, like leveling or adding a moisture barrier, for a smooth and long-lasting finish.
Staining or finishing the floors may cost more but can improve their look and durability.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring Installation
Engineered hardwood flooring is strong and flexible, liked by many. Installing it usually costs $7 to $20 per square foot, including materials and work.
Special wood or finishes might cost more. Thicker veneers are more expensive.
Installation Method
The installation method affects cost. Floating installations are often faster and cheaper than glue-down or nail-down methods.
Hard installations, like over-radiant heating or uneven floors, may increase costs.
Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Wood Type | Hardwood has various types, each with its own price. 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 | The installation method affects the cost. Nail-down and glue-down methods are usually cheaper than floating floors. |
| Room Size | Bigger rooms need more materials and work, leading to higher costs. |
| Subfloor Condition | If the subfloor needs fixing or leveling, it will add to the cost. |
| Additional Features | Extras like borders, inlays, or custom designs can increase costs. |
| Additional Services | Extra services include removing old flooring, leveling the subfloor, replacing underlayment, or installing baseboards. |
Professional vs DIY Flooring Installation
For hardwood flooring, people can hire experts or do it themselves.
Each choice has good sides and things to consider, helping people decide based on money, skills, and needs.
Professional Installation
Advantages
- Expertise: Experts know how to do a precise job.
- Efficiency: They use tools to finish fast and avoid mistakes.
- Warranty: Their work often comes with a guarantee for fixing problems.
- Professional Finish: They handle details for a nice look.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Hiring professionals costs more.
DIY Installation
Advantages
- Save money: DIY saves on labor costs.
- Flexibility and control: Work at your own pace.
- Learn new skills: Gain experience by doing it yourself.
Drawbacks
- Risks mistakes that might affect the quality.
- Demanding and time-consuming due to hard work and long hours.
