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By Alex Hawkins Updated June 11, 2024 China Engineered Flooring and Engineered Floor
Typical costs range from $7 to $25 per square foot.
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Hardwood flooring costs typically range from $7 to $25 per square foot, but most homeowners will pay around $16 per square foot on average. Hardwood flooring offers an elegant, classic look, but installing it can be a substantial investment. This guide explores the factors that affect hardwood flooring costs, such as floor size and wood type, to help you better understand this home improvement project.
Note: All cost figures in this article are sourced from Angi, HomeGuide, and The Home Depot.
The average cost of hardwood flooring is around $6 to $12 per square foot.
Carpet installation costs, on average, around $3–$11 per square foot.
Tile floor installation, on average, can range from $8 to $44 per square foot.
The national average cost of installing hardwood floors is $4 to $15 per square foot for the flooring and $3 to $10 per square foot for labor. With labor and material costs combined, you’ll pay $7 to $25 per square foot for most projects. Your total cost varies based on factors such as the area size, the type of wood chosen, and any additional services required for installation.
Project size is one of the most significant hardwood flooring installation cost factors. The table below shows what you may pay depending on how much flooring you want replaced.
The other significant cost factor is the type of hardwood flooring. Solid hardwood and engineered hardwood are the two most common types of hardwood flooring. Solid hardwood flooring has a solid wood core that makes it durable and long-lasting but comes with a higher price tag. Engineered hardwood utilizes layers of wood and plywood, which reduces its cost and life span. In addition to cost per square footage, some key differences exist between different hardwood flooring options, which we break down below.
Labor costs vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the installer’s experience. Complicated installations, such as adding flooring to stairs, will make the process more labor-intensive, resulting in higher pricing. In addition, some installers may charge extra for other services required for prep or cleanup. Some installers charge a flat rate, while others charge by the hour. Our research shows installers may charge $3 to $10 per square foot.
There are a handful of additional costs you should know about before starting your project. They include the following:
When selecting flooring for your home, it’s important to consider various factors such as durability, cost, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. Vinyl and laminate flooring options tend to be less expensive than hardwood floors and can be a great alternative to achieve a similar look for a more affordable price. However, vinyl and laminate have a shorter life span than hardwood flooring and don’t provide the same richness and appeal, adding little value to your home.
Regarding comfort, carpeting is the best choice as it provides more cushion and support than other flooring types. Moreover, it’s less expensive than hardwood flooring in terms of installation costs. However, hardwood flooring is a better long-term investment since it can last over 30 years with proper care. In contrast, carpeting requires frequent cleaning to remove dust, allergens, and pet dander. It’s also more prone to stains and wear and tear.
The table below compares the cost of installing various flooring types with hardwood flooring options.
You may want to upgrade your floors on your schedule, but if you notice any of the signs listed below, you’ll want to start your replacement sooner rather than later.
Hardwood flooring refinishing is a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire floor. It works best for minor surface scratches, color fading, and dings. Refinishing is a better choice when your flooring is still in good condition but has some minor scratches and dings on the surface. Moreover, refinishing can be a viable option if you don’t have any significant issues such as mold, mildew, or rotting boards and your subfloors are still in excellent condition. It’s also a better choice to refresh your floors with a new stain or a simple buffing.
If you notice significant structural damage, such as deep gouges, gaps, warping, or cracks on your floorboards, you should consider replacing them. This also applies to subfloors, which might have weakened due to damage. Additionally, if your floorboards are 10 to 12 years old or older and have had multiple refinishings, it’s best to replace them as they might have started to wear out. If you plan on changing the style or type of your floorboards or the current floorboards can’t achieve the new look you desire, replacements are your best option.
Consider the following pros and cons before installing hardwood floors.
Opting for a hardwood flooring professional guarantees you have a seasoned installer who performs safe and correct installations. Professional flooring contractors complete projects swiftly, and many offer warranties that safeguard the investment and provide recourse for any unforeseen issues.
A do-it-yourself (DIY) hardwood flooring installation can lead to cost savings, which is particularly appealing to budget-conscious homeowners. However, a DIY project is best suited for simpler projects and individuals with some flooring experience. Hardwood flooring demands meticulous precision, and errors can occur even with the right tools. Therefore, we recommend you seek professional installation as it outweighs the perks of a DIY job.
Homeowners who perform their own DIY hardwood installation could save on labor costs, which is typically $3 to $10 per square foot. For example, a 1,500-square-foot professional installation could cost between $7,000 and $25,000, based on the pricing of $7 to $25 for material and labor. With the labor charges, your cost drops to $4,000 to $15,000 for material only.
While you do save on labor costs, you must also consider installation supplies and equipment rental. Renting equipment from local home improvement retailers, such as The Home Depot, could result in daily or weekly rental costs. Depending on the equipment, you could pay $15 to $180 per day for equipment. In addition, you also need safety and prep suppliers for your installation. While safety goggles could cost $10 or less, you could pay up to $80 or more for a high-quality respirator. Additionally, you’ll need to invest in various supplies that you can’t use for other home improvement projects, leading to unnecessary expenses.
Investing in a professional hardwood flooring installation may initially cost more, but it will save you money in the long run due to the higher quality, reduced supply costs, and warranted installation that could prevent future expenses.
If you’re planning on a DIY hardwood flooring installation, you’ll need the following tools and equipment for your project:
To ensure a successful installation, DIY installers will also need extensive knowledge in the following areas:
Performing a professional hardwood flooring installation helps preserve the durability and quality of the floorboards. It requires precise measurements and installation, leaving little room for mistakes.
A precise installation process with accurate measurements is required, as any gaps or cracks between the boards could create future issues such as walking hazards, sagging, or mold growth. Poor installation can lead to physical damage to the flooring surface, uneven floorboards, and damage to the subflooring, which can cause the flooring to lose its durability and result in more frequent replacements.
If the manufacturer requires a certified installer to perform the installation, then performing a poor installation could void the warranty for your materials. Without proper warranty coverage, you’ll also be responsible for any replacements and repairs, resulting in additional installation costs.
Finding an experienced and certified installer will ensure the best results for your flooring installation. When searching for an installer, ensure the flooring company is certified, insured, and bonded. It’s important to check online reviews and verify that it has at least five years of experience. Ensure that it offers workmanship coverage for projects and obtain full details on the coverage. Lastly, we recommend gathering at least three detailed quotes from flooring experts to compare pricing and options closely.
As you meet with potential installers, ask the following questions during your consultation:
Hardwood flooring can last 30 years or longer with proper care and maintenance. Below are some recommendations on how to extend the life of your flooring.
A professional hardwood flooring installation elevates your home and guarantees sturdy and aesthetically pleasing flooring for decades. Although you can attempt a DIY installation to reduce costs, we recommend using a professional installer. Professional installers have better knowledge of flooring types and installation techniques to ensure the longevity of your installation. They also back up their work with workmanship guarantees, ensuring your warranty won’t be voided due to poor workmanship.
We recommend gathering at least three quotes from flooring experts to compare pricing and options closely. Our tool below instantly connects you with reputable and reliable flooring companies in your area.
Yes, hardwood floors offer an excellent return on investment (ROI) due to their durability and potential to increase resale value. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and are less prone to wear and tear than other flooring options. Additionally, hardwood floors offer a natural warmth and elegance that can enhance the overall ambiance of a space.
Hardwood flooring is an excellent investment for most homeowners. Compared to carpeting, hardwood is more durable and requires less deep cleaning. Additionally, it offers a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes that can complement your home’s aesthetics. Hardwood flooring is also a timeless upgrade that can add value to your home.
Hardwood floors should be refinished every seven to 10 years to maintain their quality and durability. If your floors are exposed to excessive sunlight or in high-traffic areas, you may need to refinish more frequently.
The main difference between solid and engineered hardwood is the construction. Solid hardwood flooring is made entirely of real wood, while engineered hardwood flooring is composed of layers of real wood and plywood. Solid hardwood is more durable and can be refinished multiple times, but it has a higher price point. On the other hand, engineered hardwood is more cost-effective to install but has a shorter life span and can only be refinished a few times.
Don’t install wood floors in rooms with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. Wood is susceptible to water damage, leading to warping, swelling, and deterioration.
You shouldn’t schedule hardwood floor installation during the hotter and more humid months of the year. Hardwood flooring will absorb moisture from the air, which causes it to expand and swell.
No, hardwood floors only require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability. While they’re durable, they can be sensitive to moisture and scratches. Routine care involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove debris, cleaning up spills, and using rugs in high-traffic areas.
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