Wood Floor Installation Cost Per Square Foot

The cost of installing wood flooring varies depending on several factors, including the type of wood, the size of the area being covered, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the project. However, homeowners can expect to pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for professional installation, with an average cost of $8 per square foot.

Types of Wood Flooring

The type of wood used for flooring will have a significant impact on the overall cost of installation. Hardwood floors, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are the most expensive option, with an average cost of $8 to $12 per square foot. Softwood floors, such as pine and fir, are less expensive, with an average cost of $6 to $9 per square foot. Engineered wood flooring, which is made from a combination of hardwood and plywood, is a mid-range option, with an average cost of $7 to $10 per square foot.

Size of the Area

The size of the area being covered will also affect the cost of installation. Larger areas will require more materials and labor, which will increase the overall cost. For example, a 1,000-square-foot room will cost more to install than a 500-square-foot room.

Complexity of the Installation

The complexity of the installation will also affect the cost. Simple installations, such as those in rectangular rooms with few obstacles, will be less expensive than complex installations, such as those in irregular-shaped rooms with multiple obstacles. For example, installing wood flooring around a fireplace or other built-in feature will increase the cost of installation.

Location of the Project

The location of the project will also affect the cost of installation. Labor costs vary from region to region, so homeowners in high-cost areas can expect to pay more for installation than homeowners in low-cost areas. For example, installing wood flooring in New York City will cost more than installing wood flooring in a rural area of the Midwest.

Additional Costs

In addition to the cost of the flooring and installation, homeowners may also need to pay for additional materials and services, such as:

Underlayment: A layer of material that is installed beneath the wood flooring to provide a smooth surface and reduce noise.
Moldings: Trim pieces that are installed around the edges of the flooring to cover the expansion gap and provide a finished look.
Sanding and finishing: If the wood flooring is not pre-finished, it will need to be sanded and finished after installation.

The cost of these additional materials and services will vary depending on the type of flooring and the size of the area being covered.