How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost?

Hardwood flooring can completely transform the look of your home, adding warmth, elegance, and timeless appeal. Whether you're looking for a modern aesthetic, classic charm, or a luxurious touch, hardwood floors fit virtually any style. But before diving into this home improvement project, understanding hardwood flooring cost is crucial. The experienced service professionals at Mr. Handyman® have created this guide to walk you through the various factors that affect pricing, including hardwood flooring type, installation considerations, what you can do to save, and additional tips for getting the best value for your investment.

The Average Cost of Hardwood Flooring

When calculating the cost of hardwood flooring, it’s essential to consider both materials and installation costs. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $6 to $12 per square foot for hardwood flooring, including materials and professional installation.

Several factors influence the total cost, including:

• The type of hardwood you select
• The size of the area you’re covering
• Installation complexity
• Your geographic location

To get the most accurate estimate for your project, it’s a good idea to reach out to a trusted local hardwood flooring installer. They can assess your space and provide a detailed quote, helping you avoid unexpected costs.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Hardwood Flooring

Several key factors will influence the overall hardwood flooring cost of your project. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Wood Type

Different types of hardwood come with varying price points. More common woods like oak or maple are generally less expensive than rarer options like Brazilian cherry or reclaimed wood. You can also choose between solid wood or engineered hardwood, which can significantly affect pricing.

Professional Installation vs DIY

Professional installation is typically more expensive than a DIY project, especially when you consider the cost of labor, materials, and preparation. But a pro installation ensures a smoother, faster process with expert results.

Level of Prep Work Needed

If your space needs additional preparation—such as tearing up old flooring, repairing, or leveling the subfloor—this will add to the cost.

Removal and Disposal of Old Flooring

If you need to remove and dispose of existing flooring, the labor costs for removal can be a significant part of the total price.

Size of the Area

Naturally, the larger the area, the more materials and labor will be required. This increases the overall cost to install hardwood floors.

Your Location

Costs can also vary based on your location. Urban areas generally have higher labor rates, and the availability of materials can also affect the pricing.

Hardwood Flooring Costs by Type

The cost of hardwood flooring can vary widely depending on the type you select. Below are some popular options and their typical price ranges:

• Solid Wood Flooring: Known for its durability and rich look, solid wood typically costs between $5 to $10 per square foot.
• Engineered Hardwood: A more budget-friendly option, engineered hardwood offers the same aesthetic appeal as solid wood but at a lower price, ranging from $3 to $8 per square foot.
• Prefinished Hardwood: Prefinished hardwood comes with a protective coating and costs around $5 to $12 per square foot.
• Unfinished Hardwood: Unfinished hardwood requires sanding and finishing on-site, typically costing $4 to $9 per square foot.
• Exotic Hardwood: These include woods like Brazilian cherry or mahogany, and their price can range from $8 to $20 per square foot.
• Reclaimed Wood: Often more expensive due to its uniqueness and sourcing, reclaimed wood can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 per square foot.
• Bamboo Flooring: A sustainable and eco-friendly option, bamboo costs around $3 to $6 per square foot.
• Cork Flooring: Another eco-friendly choice, cork can range from $5 to $8 per square foot.

Choosing the right wood type depends on your aesthetic preferences and budget. Higher-end materials like exotic hardwood or reclaimed wood will significantly increase your hardwood flooring cost, but they also bring unique textures and styles that can make your home stand out.

Professional Flooring Installation Costs

Hiring a local service professional to install your hardwood floors ensures quality work and efficiency. Labor costs will vary depending on your location and the complexity of the project.

Here are the hardwood flooring installation steps your professional installer will take:

• Preparation: Professionals will ensure your floors are prepped correctly upon removing the old flooring. They will be addressing any subfloor issues, including leveling if necessary.
• Installation: Once the area is prepped, the service professional will install your hardwood floors, ensuring proper placement, alignment, and sealing, if needed.
• Clean-up and Final Touches: After installation, the area will be cleaned, and any touch-ups will be made.

How to Save Money on Hardwood Flooring

If the cost of hardwood flooring is a concern, there are several strategies to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality.

• DIY Projects: Installing the flooring yourself can save money, but be sure you have the necessary skills and tools. Be prepared for a labor-intensive project that could take longer than expected and not render the professional finish you can expect from a professional.
• Choose Affordable Materials: Opt for more common, less expensive woods like oak or maple, or consider engineered hardwood instead of solid wood.
• Prep Your Space: Save on labor costs by removing old flooring and preparing the area yourself before the professionals arrive.
• Buy in Bulk: Some suppliers offer discounts when you purchase larger quantities of hardwood flooring.
• Look for Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or clearance events at local flooring retailers to get better deals on materials.

Rather than taking on a potentially costly DIY project, calling in the trained service professionals at Mr. Handyman® to save money while ensuring the job is done right the first time.

Trust Your Local Pros for Hardwood Flooring Installation

Installing hardwood floors in your home can dramatically enhance its look and even increase its value. If you’re ready to invest in new hardwood flooring, trust your local Mr. Handyman for reliable installation services. Our experienced team of service professionals can handle all aspects of your project, from helping you choose the right materials to repairs and fixing any installation mishaps, always, we’re here to ensure seamless installation for a stunning finished project. Plus, all our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise®, guaranteeing your satisfaction with every project.

Contact Mr. Handyman today for an estimate, and get started on transforming your home with beautiful hardwood floors.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Handyman is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mr. Handyman location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.