Is hardwood floor installation in your house something you are considering? When it comes to enhancing the value of your space over time and adding a touch of natural elegance this is an excellent option to consider. But what is the price going to be? The ultimate price can be affected by a number of things including the type of wood it is made of and the cost of labor. In order to provide you with a more accurate image let’s dissect these components.
Do You Know What Hardwood Flooring Is?
Homeowners who are looking for a flooring material that is both long-lasting and has a natural appearance tend to love hardwood flooring. Genuine hardwood, in contrast to laminate or vinyl, which are imitations of other materials, provides a choice that is historically accurate and frequently environmentally friendly, depending on where it was sourced.
Factors Affecting Hardwood Floor Installation Costs
Labor Costs
Installing hardwood floors requires precision. Mistakes can be costly both in terms of wasted materials and additional labor. For installation, most of contractors used to charge between $4 and $8 CAD per square foot, with an additional $1 to $3 CAD per square foot depending on whether or not finishing is required.
Type of Wood
The type of wood you choose significantly affects the cost:
- Pine: Often the most affordable.
- Cherry and Chestnut: On the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Exotic Hardwoods: These can be even more expensive than standard hardwoods.
- Geographic location also plays a role as transportation costs can vary based on the wood’s origin. Additionally wider boards are generally more costly than narrower ones due to their rarity and higher material costs.
Reclaimed Materials
Reclaimed wood adds a unique character to your home but comes at a premium price — usually more than new materials. Note that choices for wood species may be limited with reclaimed options.
Room Size
To estimate costs accurately, calculate the square footage of your room by multiplying its length and width. Always buy a bit more wood than you think you’ll need to account for waste and tricky corners — usually about 10% extra.
Durability
The durability of the wood affects its long-term cost-effectiveness. Solid hardwood can be refinished multiple times, while engineered hardwood can be refinished 4 to 6 times on average. Softwoods may require more frequent refinishing due to their susceptibility to scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does hardwood floor installation increase home value?
Yes, real hardwood floors can have a high return on investment (ROI), often approaching 90% or more. They are recommended by Realtors for homes in all areas and types.
- How many years do hardwood floors last?
With proper maintenance, solid hardwood floors can last for centuries. Engineered wood floors typically last 50 years or more.
- Would it be more cost-effective to replace hardwood floors or to refinish them?
Depending on the state of the hardwood floors and the finish that was previously applied, refinishing existing hardwood floors is typically more cost-effective than installing new ones.
All hardwood floor installation pricing information here is based on industry averages and may vary depending on project-specific materials, labor rates and requirements.
For the purpose of making an educated choice, it is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the numerous aspects that impact the cost of laying hardwood floor. It is important to be aware of what to anticipate in terms of expenses and processes regardless of whether you choose to go with a traditional oak or an exotic hardwood. This will guarantee that you get the most out of your investment.