Wondering how much new flooring will cost for your home?
Whether you’re considering hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet, understanding the true cost of flooring installation is essential before making any decisions.
This guide breaks down exactly how much new flooring costs, including materials, labor, and hidden expenses. Plus, we’ll compare options side-by-side based on a typical 1,000 square foot home to help you plan your budget with confidence.
Additionally, we present a final comparison of what type of flooring is affordable and convenient for your budget
Flooring Types Compared:
- Solid Hardwood
- Engineered Hardwood
- Laminate
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
- Carpet
1. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is one of the most classic and luxurious flooring choices available. Made from a single piece of wood, it’s known for its durability, rich appearance, and ability to be refinished multiple times over the decades. It’s available in various species such as oak, maple, or walnut, and offers a timeless look that can increase your home’s value.
Material cost: $3 – $8 per sq. ft.
Price varies depending on the wood species (e.g., white oak, red oak), the width of the planks, and the wood grade. Fewer knots mean a higher grade — and a higher price.
Installation, sanding, and finishing: $7 – $10 per sq. ft.
Additional costs: $2 – $5 per sq. ft.
(Removal of old flooring, new baseboards, subfloor prep, stairs, etc.)
Estimated total: $13 – $20 per sq. ft.
💡 For a 1,000 sq. ft. home: $13,000 – $20,000
✅ Advantage:
Increases home value and can be refinished multiple times for a lifetime of use.
❌ Disadvantage:
Expensive to install and not ideal for areas with moisture or high humidity.
2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood looks and feels like real wood, but it’s made with a plywood or high-density fiberboard core and a real wood veneer on top. This structure makes it more stable and resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood, while still offering the beauty of natural wood.
Material cost: $5 – $10 per sq. ft.
- Entry level: 5” wide planks, 2mm veneer
- Mid-range: 7” wide, 2–3mm veneer
- High-end: 7–9” wide planks, longboards, 3.6mm veneer
Installation: $4 – $6 per sq. ft.
Additional costs: $2 – $5 per sq. ft.
Estimated total: $13 – $20 per sq. ft.
💡 For a 1,000 sq. ft. home:
- Entry level: $15,000
- Mid-range: $17,000
- High-end: $20,000
✅ Advantage:
More stable than solid hardwood in humid climates and offers a real wood surface.
❌ Disadvantage:
Limited refinishing potential — most can only be refinished once or twice, depending on the veneer thickness.
3. Laminate Flooring
Laminate is a synthetic flooring product that mimics the look of real wood at a fraction of the cost. It’s made of multiple layers, including a photographic layer that replicates wood grain. Laminate is a favorite for budget-conscious homeowners because it’s durable, scratch-resistant, and quick to install.
A great option for durability and value compared to vinyl flooring.
Material cost: $3 – $5 per sq. ft.
Three main lines are available: Select, Plus, and Premier
- Select: Affordable, waterproof, scratch-resistant, realistic wood look
- Premier: Most realistic visuals with high durability
Installation: ~$3.50 per sq. ft.
Additional costs: $2 – $5 per sq. ft.
Estimated total: $11 – $14 per sq. ft.
💡 For 1,000 sq. ft.:
- Select: $11,000
- Plus: $12,500
- Premier: $14,000
✅ Advantage:
Affordable, durable, and highly resistant to scratches — great for busy households.
❌ Disadvantage:
Cannot be refinished and may feel less authentic underfoot compared to real wood.
4. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
LVP is one of the fastest-growing flooring trends due to its impressive durability and waterproof nature. Designed to mimic hardwood, it offers a high-end look without the maintenance. It’s perfect for areas prone to spills or moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Similar in price to laminate, but with additional flexibility, vinyl flooring offers versatility.
Material cost: $3 – $5 per sq. ft.
Also available in Select, Plus, and Premier tiers.
Installation: $3 – $4 per sq. ft.
Additional costs: $2 – $5 per sq. ft.
Estimated total: $10 – $12 per sq. ft.
💡 For 1,000 sq. ft., vinyl flooring might range from:
- Select: $10,000
- Plus: $11,000
- Premier: $12,000
✅ Advantage:
100% waterproof and extremely durable — perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
❌ Disadvantage:
May not increase resale value as much as hardwood options.
5. Carpet
Carpet remains a popular option for homeowners who want a soft, cozy underfoot feel. It’s ideal for bedrooms, family rooms, and areas where comfort is key. With many colors, textures, and materials available, carpet is versatile — but it does require regular cleaning.
The most budget-friendly option and a distinct alternative to vinyl flooring.
Material cost: $2.50 – $5 per sq. ft.
Pricing varies based on carpet fiber:
- Polyester
- Nylon
- Triexta (known for its stain-proof technology, ideal for families and pets)
✅ Advantage:
Soft, warm, and budget-friendly — ideal for bedrooms and comfort-focused areas.
❌ Disadvantage:
Prone to staining and wear over time, and not suitable for moisture-prone areas.
Installation and extras vary by project, but carpet remains the most affordable overall.
Summary: Which Flooring Is Right for Your Home?
Ready to Upgrade Your Floors?
Finding the right flooring isn’t just about cost — it’s about value, style, and long-term comfort. A trusted team can help make the decision easier and ensure flawless results from start to finish.
👉 Request your free estimate today.
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Author: Arnaldo Arias
