How Much Does A Hardwood Floor Cost

How Much Does a Hardwood Floor Cost?

Hardwood flooring is a classic and durable option that can add value and beauty to your home. But how much does it cost to install? The answer depends on several factors, including:

Type of wood:

Different types of wood have different prices. Oak and maple are popular and relatively affordable options, while exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry or mahogany are more expensive. *

Grade of wood:

The grade of wood refers to its quality. Select grades have fewer knots and blemishes, while common grades have more. Higher-grade wood costs more. *

Width of planks:

Wider planks cost more than narrower ones. *

Installation method:

There are two main installation methods for hardwood flooring: nail-down and floating. Nail-down is more expensive but more durable. *

Labor costs:

Labor costs vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the region you live in.

Average Hardwood Flooring Costs

On average, hardwood flooring costs between $6 and $12 per square foot, installed. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and any necessary subflooring or moisture barrier.

Here is a breakdown of the average costs for different types of hardwood flooring:

Oak:

$6-$8 per square foot *

Maple:

$7-$9 per square foot *

Cherry:

$8-$10 per square foot *

Brazilian cherry:

$10-$12 per square foot

Factors that Affect Hardwood Flooring Costs

In addition to the factors listed above, the following can also affect the cost of hardwood flooring:

Size of the room:

Larger rooms cost more to floor than smaller rooms. *

Shape of the room:

Rooms with irregular shapes or lots of corners and closets can be more expensive to floor. *

Condition of the subfloor:

If the subfloor is uneven or damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced, which can add to the cost of the installation. *

Location:

Labor costs vary depending on the region you live in. *

Time of year:

Hardwood flooring installation tends to be more expensive during the summer months when demand is higher.

How to Save Money on Hardwood Flooring

There are a few ways to save money on hardwood flooring:

Choose a less expensive type of wood.

Oak and maple are good, affordable options. *

Opt for a lower grade of wood.

Common grades have more knots and blemishes, but they still look great and cost less. *

Install the flooring yourself.

If you are handy, you can save money by installing the flooring yourself. *

Get multiple quotes from contractors.

Compare prices from several contractors before making a decision. *

Look for sales and discounts.

Many flooring stores offer sales and discounts on hardwood flooring throughout the year.

Conclusion

Hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable investment that can add value to your home. The cost of hardwood flooring depends on several factors, but on average, you can expect to pay between $6 and $12 per square foot, installed. By choosing a less expensive type of wood, opting for a lower grade of wood, installing the flooring yourself, getting multiple quotes from contractors, and looking for sales and discounts, you can save money on hardwood flooring without sacrificing quality.