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Installing new hardwood floors cost


How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost? (2022 Guide)

Hardwood flooring is both durable and sophisticated. Read on to learn how much it costs to install.

Reviews by This Old House Reviews Team 08/08/2022 1:00 pm

In This Guide: Average Costs | Cost Factors | Types of Hardwood Flooring | Pros and Cons | DIY vs. Professional Installation | How To Save | How To Install | How To Hire a Pro | Conclusion | FAQs

Hardwood is a popular flooring material that can increase the value of your home. While it’s extremely durable and sophisticated, it comes with high up-front installation costs. Below, we outline the cost to install several different types of hardwood floors, plus list the pros and cons of this type of flooring.

Average Hardwood Flooring Cost

The average cost of installing hardwood floors is $3–$10 per square foot for materials and $3–$8 per square foot for labor, totaling $6–$18 per square foot. A single 200-square-foot room might cost $1,200–$3,600, while a 2,000-square-foot house could cost $12,000–$36,000. Wood quality influences price, with high-end flooring costing up to $25 per square foot. Square footage is the greatest determinant of price. Still, the following factors also come into play:

Hardwood Flooring Cost by Type of Hardwood

Hardwood flooring cost varies based on the price of the material and the labor involved in installation. Traditional solid hardwood flooring consists of real wood planks cut from trees, which are installed end-to-end. Engineered wood flooring, which has a real wood veneer attached to a plywood base, may be slightly less expensive. Parquet flooring uses smaller pieces of real wood to create geometric designs, such as a herringbone pattern, making it the most expensive to install. Prefabricated, parquet-like tiles are a lower-cost alternative that give the appearance of parquet but are easier to install.

TypeMaterial CostsInstallation CostsTotal Cost per Sq. Ft.
Solid hardwood$2–$20$3–$8$5–$28
Engineered wood$3–$14$3–$9$6–$23
True parquet$3–$18$10–$22$13–$40
Parquet-style tiles$3–$5$7–$10$10–$16

Hardwood Flooring Cost by Tree Species

Tree species greatly influences the cost of traditional hardwood. There are several types of wood to choose from that vary in appearance and performance. Some tree species are more durable than others or better suited to certain types of climates. Generally, the harder and more durable the wood is, the more expensive it is.

SpeciesCost per Sq. Ft.
Bamboo$2–$6
Brazilian walnut$5–$10
Cherry$4–$7
Cypress$4–$6
Hickory$3–$7
Mahogany$6–$8
Maple$3–$10
Pine$2–$4
Red oak$2–$6
Teak$9–$13
White ash$5–$8
White oak$4–$7

Hardwood Flooring Cost by Thickness

Traditionally, hardwood floorboards are three-quarters of an inch thick. Thinner boards—down to five-sixteenths of an inch thick—are less expensive, but you won’t be able to sand and refinish them as many times.

ThicknessCost per Sq. Ft.
5/16”$2–$5
3/4”$3–$10
7/8”$5–$15

Hardwood Flooring Cost by Grade

Solid hardwood flooring comes from living trees, so it’s not as standardized in quality as factory-made flooring material. Different vendors have different standards for grading their products’ quality; for example, some grades refer to grain pattern, texture, or appearance rather than durability. In general, hardwood boards of the same species and cut have three tiers of quality that determine their cost:

GradeCost per Sq. Ft.
Low-tier$2–$6
Mid-tier$5–$10
High-tier$8–$18

Hardwood Flooring Cost by Cut and Grain

The way wood is cut creates its grain pattern, which can play into price relative to the species of tree. Plain-sawn or flat-sawn planks are cut parallel to the tree’s growth rings to create a wave or flame-like grain pattern. Quarter-sawn planks, on the other hand, are cut at a 60–90 degree angle from growth rings for a straighter grain pattern. Flat-sawn boards are more common and therefore less expensive, while quarter-sawn boards are pricier but wear more evenly. The rarest and most expensive are rift-sawn boards, which have the most linear grain pattern but create the most waste.

To estimate how much your flooring will cost, use the equation below, as illustrated in our Complete Guide to Hardwood Flooring article.

Free Quote: Get your hardwood flooring quote today

Hardwood Flooring Cost Factors

Beyond the type of wood, here are some factors that contribute to the total cost of hardwood flooring installation:

Alternative Flooring Options

If you love the look of solid wood flooring but traditional or engineered hardwood is beyond your budget, there are alternative flooring options that mimic the appearance of wood. Vinyl or laminate flooring and porcelain tiles can be manufactured to look like wood for a fraction of the cost. Alternative real wood options, such as floating floors and click-and-lock paneling, can help you save money on installation.

Floor Joist Repairs

When you replace your existing flooring, you may discover that the subfloor or joists have mold, insect, or water damage. In this case, you’ll need to have the joists repaired for an average cost of $2,000–$5,000 before any work can be completed.

Finishing and Coating

When installing new hardwood floors, you have two choices: boards that have been prefinished at the factory or unfinished boards that are finished with sealant following installation. Unfinished boards are less expensive but come with higher labor costs, since the finishing must be done on-site. Additionally, different types of finish have different costs, with polyurethane on the low end and penetrating resin finish on the high end.

Installation and Labor

Hard and exotic woods have higher material and installation costs, while softwoods like pine are easier to work with and cheaper to install. Parquet and small wood tiles with intricate patterns are pricier to install, as is flooring in rooms with unusual layouts or staircases.

Repair, Replacement, or Refinishing

Hardwood flooring may be expensive to install, but you can easily refinish it. A professional sanding and floor refinishing project costs $3–$8 per square foot and will get rid of dents, dings, and even gouges. You may even refinish your floors yourself. Replacing individual boards will cost more, but it will still be just a fraction of the overall cost of having new floors installed.

Free Quote: Get your hardwood flooring quote today

 

Types of Hardwood Flooring

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when installing new hardwood floors is choosing the wood type. Here are some of the most common types of wood flooring and their characteristics:

Pros and Cons of Hardwood Flooring

Below, we outline the benefits and drawbacks of installing this type of flooring.

Pros of Hardwood Flooring

Durability and value are among the top benefits of hardwood flooring. Some other pros include the following:

Cons of Hardwood Flooring

There are several cons to consider before installing hardwood flooring:

DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Flooring Cost

Installation and labor are two of the most expensive aspects of installing hardwood flooring. To cut down on costs, homeowners may be tempted to take on the project themselves. There are some types of wood flooring, like click-and-lock wood tiles and floating flooring, that experienced DIYers may be able to install themselves. When it comes to traditional hardwood plank flooring, however, the job is best left to the professionals.

Flooring contractors don’t necessarily have to be licensed, but it takes ample training and experience to properly account for variables such as changing temperatures, humidity, and moisture protection. Improperly installed wood floors are prone to cracking, bowing, and warping over time, so if you’re investing in hardwood flooring, we strongly recommend you have it professionally installed.

Free Quote: Get your hardwood flooring quote from pros near you today

How To Save on Hardwood Flooring Costs

Here are a few ways to save money on the overall project cost without having to do the work yourself.

Prioritize Savings Over Appearance

Think about wood flooring materials beyond just the color and finish. Look for a less expensive grain (plain-sawn), type of hardwood (pine, red oak, bamboo), and thickness (5/16”). You’ll also pay less for boards with more “character,” i.e., knots, varied colors, etc.

Consider Engineered Wood

It can cost more to install, but you can often save money by opting for engineered wood with non-exotic veneers. Depending on the type of panels, you may even be able to install it by yourself.

Whenever Possible, Refinish

If you already have hardwood floors, refinishing the old flooring will cost much less than installing new wood. Unless there are deep gouges or the floors have significant moisture damage, refinishing is usually the way to go.

How To Install Hardwood Floors

Installing hardwood flooring is a complicated process, but here are the basic steps. You can learn more in our comprehensive guide to hardwood floor installation.

  1. Let the flooring material acclimate to the home’s temperature and humidity. Check for warps or other damage to the material.
  2. Remove the old flooring and clean and prepare the subfloor.
  3. Lay and install the boards while staggering the gaps, leaving room for expansion and using boards from different boxes.
  4. Cut any excess underlayment, then sand and stain the boards.
  5. Add thresholds.

How To Hire a Professional

When choosing a flooring contractor, here are some things to keep in mind:

Free Quote: Get your hardwood flooring quote from pros near you today

Our Conclusion

Hardwood flooring costs are substantial, and no flooring material is perfect. Still, hardwood floors have a lot of benefits, including a high return on investment. You also have more options than just installing wide planks in the traditional manner. Take some time to explore your wood flooring options and how they fit into your budget to determine whether hardwood floors are the right choice for your home.

FAQs About Hardwood Flooring

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at [email protected].

Cost to Install Hardwood Floor

July 2022

Item detailsQtyLow  High
Hardwood Flooring Cost 
Non-discounted retail pricing for: Residential, above-grade red oak flooring. 25 yr limited warranty. UV resistant 7 coat AlO satin finish. For nail down installation. Quantity includes typical waste overage, material for repair and local delivery.		129 square feet$791.91$1,042.81
Hardwood Floor Installation Labor, Basic 
Basic labor to install hardwood floor with favorable site conditions. Install underlayment on clean, level subfloor. Acclimate, cull and blend flooring. Blind nail wood flooring. Includes planning, equipment and material acquisition, area preparation and protection, setup and cleanup.		129 square feet$791.91$1,042.81
Hardwood Floor Installation Job Supplies 
Cost of related materials and supplies typically required to install hardwood floor including: manufacturer recommended underlayment, fasteners, adhesives and surface sealants.		129 square feet$791.91$1,042.81
Hardwood Floor Installation Equipment Allowance
Job related costs of specialty equipment used for job quality and efficiency, including: Pneumatic nailer for 1 1/2" to 2" nails and up to 3/4" thick flooring. Daily rental. Consumables extra.		129 square feet$791.91$1,042.81
Option: Remove Flooring
Detach from mounting surface(s). Break into haul able pieces. Remove from home and dispose of legally. Asbestos handling is extra.		129 square feet$791.91$1,042.81
Hardwood Flooring Debris Disposal
Costs to load and haul away old materials, installation waste and associated debris.		129 square feet0.236250.26875
 Unused Minimum Labor
Balance of 2 hr(s) minimum labor charge that can be applied to other tasks.		   
Totals - Cost To Install Hardwood Floor   
Average Cost per Square Foot  

Custom Calculators with Homewyse Lists

Service Professionals: create a reusable estimating app that is 100% customized to your business. Start with a template or build your own (free; Account sign up required):

For a basic project in zip code 47474 with 120 square feet, the cost to Install a Hardwood Floor starts at $12.56 - $17.37 per square foot*. Actual costs will depend on job size, conditions, and options.

To estimate costs for your project:

1. Set Project Zip Code Enter the Zip Code for the location where labor is hired and materials purchased.

2. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of "square feet" required for the project.

3. Re-calculate Click the "Update" button.

NOTE: *Input the total of the finished surface area AND the area of any openings enclosed by the finished area.


 


Unit Costs: How Pros Price

Unlike other websites that publish pricing from unrelated jobs in the past, Homewyse creates up-to-date estimates from current Unit Costs. The Unit Cost method delivers high accuracy by using location, details and options for the unique requirements of each job. Contracting, trade, design and maintenance businesses rely on the Unit Cost method for transparency, accuracy and fair profits.


Cost to Install a Hardwood Floor - Notes and General Information

These estimates are for BASIC work performed in serviceable conditions by qualified trade professionals using MID GRADE materials. Work not mentioned on this page and/or work using master craftsman, premium materials and project supervision will result in HIGHER COSTS! Explore the full range of red oak flooring new installation labor options and material prices here.

These estimates are NOT substitutes for written quotes from trade professionals. Homewyse strongly recommends that you contact reputable professionals for accurate assessments of work required and costs for your project - before making any decisions or commitments.

The cost estimate includes:

  • Costs for local material / equipment delivery to and service provider transportation to and from the job site.
  • Costs to prepare the worksite for Hardwood Floor Installation, including costs to protect existing structure(s), finishes, materials and components.
  • Labor setup time, mobilization time and minimum hourly charges that are commonly included for small Hardwood Floor Installation jobs.

The cost estimate does NOT include:

  • Costs for removing, relocating, repairing, or modifying existing framing, surfacing, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems - or bringing those systems into compliance with current building codes.
  • Costs for testing and remediation of hazardous materials (asbestos, lead, etc.).
  • General contractor overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the Hardwood Floor Installation. Add 13% to 22% to the total cost above if a general contractor will supervise this project.
  • Sales tax on materials and supplies.
  • Permit or inspection fees (or portion thereof) required by your local building department for your overall project.

References - Hardwood Floor Installation

  • Product and Supplies Data: Lowes Flooring Products and Supplies Lowes , Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Home Depot Flooring and Supplies Home Depot, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Menards Flooring and Supplies Menards, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: Fast Floors Flooring and Supplies Fast Floors, Jul 2022, Website
  • Product and Supplies Data: BuildDirect Flooring and Supplies BuildDirect, Jul 2022, Website
  • The HUD PATH Rehab Guide Volume 5: Partitions, Ceilings, Floors, and Stairs U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Policy Development and Research, Mar 2011, Editorial Staff
  • Home Improvement 1-2-3: Expert Advice from The Home Depot Homer, TLC, Jul 2022, Editorial Staff, ISBN 696213273
  • The HUD PATH Rehab Guide Volume 5: Partitions, Ceilings, Floors, and Stairs U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Policy Development and Research, Mar 2011, Editorial Staff
  • Labor Wages and Costs: CPWAR Construction Cost Book The Center for Construction Research and Training, Jul 2022, Staff
  • Project Spending Data: Harvard University JCHS Homeowner Expenditures Harvard University, Jul 2022, Website

Hardwood Floor Installation Budget Management

This infographic highlights decisions and site issues that can cause large cost variances in the typical Hardwood Floor Installation budget.


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Cost of parquet board laying services

Master
Vladimir Korotkevich

November 20, 2020, Gatchina, Krasnoe selo

Materials available from the client.

Review 5

It was necessary to lay on the floor in two rooms a coniferous underlay under the parquet board and the parquet board of the firm tarket, I chose for a long time on the site, I was looking with a profile direction, who advertised that he could do all types of work (and if even with a team) from leveling the walls to replacing the faucet, she immediately brushed aside, ...more

because they already have experience working with them, as a rule, nothing good happens, I sent requests to several masters with a specialized direction (I looked at reviews, photos of works, how many years I have been doing these types of work, price), 3 masters came up, Vladimir responded the fastest , in a short time agreed that he would arrive, arrived on time, did everything very high quality, quickly, 30 sq. m in about 6 hours, there are no complaints, everything is neat, the price is very adequate compared to others, he came from the other end of the city. I highly recommend this master.

—

Lyudmila

Master
Aleksey Belikov

January 12, 2022, Kolomyagi

Laying flooring, Wall demolition. combine the kitchen and living room., Work plan:, - Demolition of a concrete stone wall (3.55x2.75), - Garbage removal, - Sew up the doorway, - Laying a laminate (24 m2), - New electrical wiring (chandeliers, sockets) , - Wallpapering at the junction of the demolished wall, - Painting the ceiling.

Review 5

Alexey and Pavel made a good impression. The guys are very fast, they will not pull the rubber. You can see the interest in the work. There was a demolition of the wall, they arrived the next day after the call, everyone figured it out, counted, and set to work the next day. There are no complaints about the dismantling, everything is correct ... more

and quickly. There were a couple of small complaints about subsequent cosmetic work, but not at all critical in our case, something was corrected on the spot, something was discovered later. There was also a not very clear moment with the laying of the laminate. The guys honestly said in advance that it may be necessary to fill the floor for leveling. Then, in the process, they announced that the floor was even, but still at the end, after laying, it turned out that it was not quite. They didn’t immediately offer a cheaper and faster leveling option by increasing the substrate layer under the laminate (we discussed it later separately, but I think it would be easier and cheaper right away). Total: Finished a little ahead of schedule. Stayed within the budget. Everyone was talking about business. On the spot, they consulted on other issues (noise insulation, connecting the sink, glazing the loggia). There is a job guarantee. I can recommend.

—

Ekaterina

Master
Dmitry Dyakov

May 6, 2022, Elektrosila metro station

There are building materials.

Review 5

Laying parquet boards. Dmitry and his partner Yuri arrived promptly. The work was done with high quality and within the stipulated time. Laying was difficult, coped with all the problems. Also, at my request, cabinets were assembled into two dressing rooms. The quality of the work is excellent, the prices are reasonable, the guys are honest, ...more

decent with golden hands. I will use again and recommend to my friends0004

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Victoria

Master
Jamshid Nematov

March 6, 2022, Bugry, Devyatkino, Grazhdansky Prospekt

Turnkey repair, laying flooring, installation, replacement of electrics, installation of interior doors, wall painting, plastering puttying walls, laying tiles, painting the ceiling. , There is a design project., No materials., We are looking for a team that can do the job quickly and efficiently. We just don't have time to drag this process out. You will also need to demolish the wall between the bathroom and the toilet.

Review 5+

Jamshid did our kitchen, hallway and bathroom renovation. It all took about a month. Any questions or suggestions, I calmly solved with him. He always has some ideas or tips, while he took into account how much money I was willing to spend, what color and what quality I would like this or that. ...more

Initially, my idea of ​​what everything would look like after the repair was different. In the process, jamshid did not limit my imagination and supported all my ideas and gave recommendations on how best to do it. To say that I am delighted with what happened at the end, to say nothing. This is my first repair and will continue to use only him. I definitely advise. Attached before and after photos:

-

Victoria Karimova

90,000 Parquet laying in Moscow - prices per square meter for laying parquet in the company Parquet Doctor

Option “Basic”

890 rub/m 2

9000 930 rub /m 2

Warranty

5 years old

Minimum order

8 m 2

View photo

about the service

Parquet - this is a stylish, elegant flooring decorating the interiors of palaces and apartments standard layout. But it requires special skill when laying the planks. Even a minor marriage leads to swelling of the parquet canvas and the appearance of squeaks throughout the floor. Therefore, laying parquet is the most difficult finishing work, and the appearance and service life of the flooring depend on the skill of the master.

Room area