How Much Does It Cost To Install Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless choice for any home. It's durable, beautiful, and can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. However, hardwood flooring can also be expensive to install, so it's important to factor in the cost before you make a decision. In this article, we'll break down the cost of hardwood flooring installation, including materials, labor, and other factors.

Materials

The cost of hardwood flooring materials will vary depending on the type of wood you choose. Some of the most popular and affordable options include oak, maple, and cherry. More exotic woods, such as Brazilian cherry or mahogany, will be more expensive. You'll also need to factor in the cost of underlayment, which is a layer of material that goes under the hardwood flooring to provide cushioning and support. Underlayment can range in price from $0.50 to $2 per square foot.

Labor

The cost of labor to install hardwood flooring will also vary depending on the complexity of the job. A simple installation in a small room will be less expensive than a complex installation in a large room with multiple angles and curves. The average cost of labor to install hardwood flooring is between $3 and $8 per square foot. However, you may be able to find a lower price if you hire a contractor during the off-season or if you're willing to do some of the work yourself.

Other factors

In addition to the cost of materials and labor, there are a few other factors that can affect the cost of hardwood flooring installation. These factors include:

The size of the room: The larger the room, the more it will cost to install hardwood flooring.
The condition of the subfloor: If the subfloor is not level or has any damage, it will need to be repaired before hardwood flooring can be installed. This can add to the cost of the installation.
The type of finish: Hardwood flooring can be finished with a variety of different finishes, such as oil, polyurethane, or wax. The type of finish you choose will affect the cost of the installation.

Total cost

The total cost of hardwood flooring installation will vary depending on all of the factors discussed above. However, you can expect to pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for materials and labor. If you have a large room or a complex installation, the cost may be higher. It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different contractors before making a decision.