How much does flooring cost ?

When it comes to flooring there are many ways you can go depending on the effect you want to create and also on the functional requirements of the area you are dealing with. Whether you want the traditional charm of a solid wood floor or the modern functionality of stained concrete, the type of building, and when it was built, will obviously have some influence over the type and style of flooring that will look good and can also be installed. Whatever you choose; whether it’s solid hardwood flooring or vinyl tiles, there’s something available for everybody’s taste and budget nowadays.

Traditional charm and appeal of hardwood

Apart from its good looks, traditional hardwood flooring is incredibly durable, one of the reasons that it is still with after centuries. It offers a feeling of warmth and blends well with many different types of rooms, especially in large open-plan areas. Beautiful as it is, it’s not suitable for some areas such as bathroom or kitchens unless it’s been pre-treated in the factory with polyurethane sealant to combat against moisture.

Hardwood floor costs start around $7.50 to $22 per square foot depending on quality of materials and installation should run at about $2 to $8 per square foot depending on if the boards are pre-treated in the factory or need to be finished on site when installed.

Cork and Bamboo Flooring Costs

Traditional hardwood has been overtaken by cork and bamboo flooring in terms of durability and the fact that it’s seen as much more environmentally friendly than the hardwood option. These materials offer a very high level of durability and resistance to heavy traffic and use.  Cork flooring in particular has excellent sound deadening qualities which can make for a nice cozy atmosphere at home. It’s also very comfortable if you like to walk around home barefoot, because it always feels warm underfoot. Both cork and bamboo can be installed in areas where moisture is common such as bathrooms and kitchens, if it is properly treated beforehand.

Costs for cork flooring start at around $6 to $18 per square foot. Expect to pay around $90-$150 for installation of around 200 square feet. Bamboo flooring starts at under $2 per square foot and goes to around $5 per square foot for fine quality bamboo. Installation costs for bamboo flooring should be approximately $3.75 per square foot.

Laminate Flooring Costs

One of its biggest advantages is that it can literally mimic many different flooring materials such as wood, marble and stone. It’s a lot less expensive for installing so it’s a good choice if you’re on a limited budget but looking for an impressive end result. It’s really good value for money and some manufacturers offer lengthy guarantees, sometimes for as long as 30 years.

Laminate flooring costs range from $1.50 to $9 per square foot for materials and installation should be around $1 to $5 per square foot, which should include any sub-floor padding or pre-installation preparation required.

Carpets Costs

Let’s face it; when it comes to variety, there are few flooring options as versatile as carpeting. Not only the extensive range of colors you can find, but throw in a mind boggling array of patterns and materials and you could be spoilt for choice. Like cork flooring, carpeting absorbs a lot of ambient noise and can ‘hush’ a room and make it feel very cozy and homey. Good quality carpets last for many years and most synthetic carpets will wear well for several years at least if they are looked after. Whether you choose fully fitted carpets or carpet tiles, you will certainly have no problem finding a pattern and style to fit the room you have in mind.

Carpet costs can range from $3 for budget carpeting to $40 per square foot or more for top quality wool carpets. Carpet installation costs run from $1.50 to $3 per square foot (including grippers and other laying accessories).

Vinyl Flooring Costs

Often considered to be the most flexible and affordable option when it comes to flooring. Vinyl sheets have some of the characteristics of laminate flooring in that it can look like tile, hardwood, marble or ceramic tiles. Vinyl is resistant to mold and moisture so it’s perfect for use in kitchens, bathrooms and any other areas such as laundry rooms where moisture is present. It may not be as long lasting as some of the more expensive options but there are some vinyl manufacturers offering 5-year warranties, so it’s still very good value for money.

Vinyl sheet flooring ranges from $1 to $6 a square foot and vinyl tiles can cost from $1.50 to $12 per square foot with installation costs running at about $1.50 to $3 per square foot.

Tile Flooring Costs

Always popular as a flooring option for kitchens, tiles can be very versatile, hard wearing and very practical. The most popular choices are porcelain, ceramic and marble. While installation is not cheap, if done correctly tile flooring will not only give a beautiful finish but also last a lifetime. Tiles are most popular in warmer areas of the country and they are superbly practical for kitchens, bathrooms and laundry areas as they are not affected by moisture and can resist stains and heavy traffic very well.

Costs vary depending on the tile material and exact design, but expect to pay from $10 to $30 per square foot and installation starts at around $9 to $12 depending on the quantity of work to be done.

With such choice you’re sure to find new flooring that will serve your needs. Paying top line prices for something that will last forever is fine, but you don’t always need that, so calculate your flooring costs taking everything into account. Compare different quotes from local contractors to get a more precise idea of flooring costs in your area.


To get a better idea of costs, here are some flooring estimates from professionals.

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