How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost?
Hardwood floors are a classic and timeless choice for home decor, but they come with a significant price tag. The average cost for hardwood flooring is $7 to $25 per square foot installed, with the materials alone costing $4 to $15 per square foot. For a 2,000-square-foot house, the total cost to replace hardwood floors typically ranges from $14,000 to $50,000.
This article provides a clear overview of the cost of hardwood flooring depending on the chosen tree, type, thickness, and other factors. To help you save money on your hardwood flooring project, the article will explore ways to reduce costs.Â
Go on reading to learn more!
Hardwood Flooring Cost by Hardwood Type
The cost of hardwood flooring mostly varies based on the hardwood type. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for different types of hardwood flooring:
| Type of Hardwood | Cost Range (per sq ft) | Average Cost (per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineered hardwood | $4.50 to $16 | $10.25 |
| Solid hardwood | $5 to $28 | $16.50 |
| Prefinished hardwood | $6 to $12 | $9 |
| Faux parquet | $7 to $15 | $11 |
| Parquet | $20 to $45 | $32.50 |
Hardwood Flooring Cost by Wood Material
| Wood Material | Price per Square Foot of Hardwood Floor |
|---|---|
| Oak | $7 - $12 |
| Maple | $8 - $14 |
| Cherry | $10 - $15 |
| Walnut | $11 - $20 |
| Hickory | $9 - $16 |
| Ash | $8 - $13 |
| Mahogany | $14 - $28 |
| Bamboo | $5 - $10 |
Hardwood Flooring Cost by Wood Panel Thickness
The thickness of the hardwood planks can also impact the overall cost. Thicker planks tend to be more expensive due to the increased material used. However, they also offer enhanced durability and stability. Here’s a breakdown of popular hardwood thicknesses and their typical price ranges:
| Thickness | Cost Range (per sq ft) | Average Cost (per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4" (6.35 mm) | $2 to $6 | $4 |
| 3/8" (9.55 mm) | $3 to $7 | $5 |
| 5/8" (15.88 mm) | $4 to $9 | $6.50 |
| 1/2" (12.7 mm) | $4 to $12 | $8 |
| 3/4" (19.05 mm) | $5 to $15 | $10 |
| 7/8" (22.23 mm) | $5 to $15 | $10 |
Hardwood Flooring Cost by Area Size
| Area Size | Cost Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 500 sq ft | $3,500 to $12,500 | $8,000 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $7,000 to $25,000 | $16,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $10,500 to $37,500 | $24,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $14,000 to $50,000 | $32,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | $17,500 to $62,500 | $40,000 |
| 3,000 sq ft | $21,000 to $75,000 | $48,000 |
| 4,000 sq ft | $28,000 to $100,000 | $64,000 |
Hardwood Flooring Cost by Grade
| Grade | Cost Range (per sq ft) | Average Cost (per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Grade | $6 to $18 | $12 |
| Mid-Grade | $6 to $12 | $9 |
| High Grade | $12 to $25 | $18.50 |
| Luxury Grade | $15 to $45+ | $30 |
Hardwood Flooring Costs by Cut and Grain
1. Cut Types
| Cut Type | Cost Range (per sq ft) |
|---|---|
| Plain Sawn | $5 to $15 |
| Quarter Sawn | $10 to $20 |
| Rift Sawn | $12 to $25 |
2. Grain Patterns
| Grain Pattern | Cost Range (per sq ft) |
|---|---|
| Flat Grain | $5 to $12 |
| Vertical Grain | $10 to $20 |
| Mixed Grain | $6 to $18 |
Labor Costs for Hardwood Floor
Labor costs are a significant part of the total expense when installing or replacing hardwood flooring. What works do they include?
Additional Hardwood Flooring Costs
Floor Removal
Before installing a new hardwood floor, you may need to remove existing flooring. The costs for removal can vary. If it is hardwood, it will cost $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, while carpet removal will add up to $0.70 to $1.60 per square foot.
Subfloor Preparation
If the subfloor requires repairs or replacement, this can add $2.20 to $4.75 per square foot to the cost. Additional costs may arise if there are issues like squeaky floors, mold, or water damage, which may require more extensive repairs.
Material Grade
- Prime Grade: Higher quality wood with fewer imperfections, leading to a higher price.
- Select Grade: More cost-effective, with some imperfections and color variations, typically at a lower price point.
Type of Installation
- Glue-Down Installation: More labor-intensive and costly compared to nail-down methods.
- Nail-Down Installation: Generally, it’s less expensive and quicker.
Wood Type
Domestic woods such as red or white oak are generally less expensive. Exotic woods like hickory or teak are more costly options due to rarity and transportation costs.
Finishing Options
- Pre-finished Hardwood: Typically costs between $6 to $12 per square foot and saves on labor.
- Site-finished Hardwood: This may require additional labor for sanding and finishing, increasing costs.
Staircase Installation
If you plan to install hardwood on stairs, this requires extra labor and materials. Staircase installation is more complex than flooring a flat surface, which increases the cost. Installing hardwood on stairs usually costs between $40 and $75 per step.
Unexpected Issues
During installation, you can face unforeseen issues like hidden subfloor damage or plumbing issues. It's wise to set aside a contingency fund of 10-15% of your total budget to cover any unexpected costs.
Real Wood Flooring: Pros and Cons
- Timeless Beauty: Hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to any room, creating a classic look that never goes out of style.
- Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, making them a long-term investment.
- Easy Maintenance: Regular sweeping and occasional mopping is usually enough to keep hardwood floors looking their best.
- Improved Air Quality: Unlike carpets, hardwood floors don’t trap dust and allergens, making them a healthier choice for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
- Increased Home Value: Hardwood floors are a desirable feature that can increase the resale value of your home.
- Versatility: Hardwood floors complement a variety of decor styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Cost: Hardwood flooring can be expensive, both in terms of materials and installation.
- Susceptibility to Scratches and Dents: Hardwood floors can be scratched or dented by heavy furniture, pet claws, or high heels.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Hardwood floors can be damaged by moisture, so they’re not ideal for bathrooms or basements.
- Noise: When installed in high-traffic areas, hardwood floors can be noisy.
- Requires Refinishing: Over time, hardwood floors may need to be refinished to restore their original luster.
- Coldness: Hardwood floors can feel cold underfoot, especially in the winter.
Tips to Reduce Hardwood Flooring Budget
Do Hardwood Flooring Yourself or Hire a Pro?
- Lower overall cost. Save $3-$8 per square foot on labor.
- Takes longer. A room could take several days to weeks.
- Depends on your skill level. Risk of mistakes.
- Need to buy or rent specialized tools.
- Most manufacturers’ warranties are only valid with professional installation.
- Labor-intensive. Requires bending, kneeling, and lifting.
- You’re responsible for ensuring the subfloor is properly prepared.
- Best for simple, rectangular rooms.
- Requires learning new skills and techniques.
- Sense of accomplishment from doing it yourself.
- Higher cost due to labor charges.
- Faster. Pros can usually finish a room in 1-3 days.
- Generally higher quality and more consistent results.
- Professionals have all the necessary tools.
- Work often comes with a warranty.
- No physical effort on your part.
- Pros will handle subfloor preparation.
- Can handle complex layouts and custom designs.
- No learning curve for you.
- Peace of mind from professional results.
How to Hire a Hardwood Flooring Professional
Pros of Bay Windows
If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to find hardwood flooring professionals in your area, consider using Homebuddy.com. This platform connects homeowners with pre-screened and qualified contractors, making it easier to find the right professional for your project.
Homebuddy.com offers several benefits:
- All contractors on the platform are vetted and insured, ensuring quality and peace of mind.
- You can get upfront pricing information and compare quotes from different contractors.
- The platform facilitates easy communication with contractors, allowing you to ask questions and discuss your project details.
- You can read reviews from other homeowners to learn about their experiences with different contractors.
Increase your chances of finding a reputable hardwood flooring professional with Homebuddy.com.
What to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Installer?
Before hiring a hardwood flooring installer, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here’s a list of what you can ask:
Conclusion
Hardwood flooring adds timeless beauty and value to your home, but it’s essential to understand the costs involved. Factors like wood type, thickness, grade, and installation complexity all play a role.
By carefully considering your options and budgeting accordingly, you can achieve the hardwood floors of your dreams without breaking the bank. Remember to get multiple quotes, compare prices, and choose a reputable installer for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, hardwood floors are a worthy investment. They offer long-lasting durability, and timeless beauty, and can significantly increase your home’s value. While the upfront cost is higher than some other flooring options, their longevity and appeal often make them a smart financial choice.
- With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, even up to 100 years. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and occasional refinishing, helps preserve their appearance and durability. The exact lifespan depends on the type of wood and the level of care.
- Yes, hardwood flooring can increase your home’s value. It is highly desirable among buyers due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Homes with hardwood floors often sell faster and at higher prices compared to those with other types of flooring.
- Hardwood floors are best suited for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms where they add warmth and elegance. They are not recommended for high-moisture areas like bathrooms or basements, as excess moisture can damage the wood. For kitchens, hardwood can work well if properly sealed and maintained.
The cost of hardwood flooring is calculated based on several factors, including the type of wood, the size of the area, and labor costs. Additional factors like wood thickness, finish, and installation complexity can also affect the overall price. It’s important to get detailed quotes to understand all the costs involved.
- Hardwood floors require regular maintenance, but it’s not overly demanding. Simple tasks like sweeping, vacuuming, and occasional mopping will keep them in good shape. Depending on the wear, refinishing may be needed every few years to restore the floor’s original beauty.
