Laminate Flooring Cost per Square Foot
The cost to install laminate flooring can be between $2,000 and $28,000 based on the size of the area and the quality of the materials.
Laminate flooring can be as cheap as $3 per square foot. For more expensive options, it might be $5 or more per square foot. It depends on your budget and the style you want.
Below is a guide on what you might spend on your laminate flooring project:
| Square Feet | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 250 | $750 | $1,250 |
| 500 | $1,500 | $2,500 |
| 1,000 | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| 1,500 | $4,500 | $7,500 |
| 2,000 | $6,000 | $10,000 |
| 2,500 | $7,500 | $12,500 |
| 3,000 | $9,000 | $15,000 |
Cost by Thickness
Thinner laminate resists scratches and dents but can bend and be noisy, so it’s good for places with little foot traffic.
Thick, 12-millimeter laminate works well in busy areas. It’s more expensive, but you might not need an underlayment or a perfectly flat floor.
| Thickness | Cost per Sq Ft |
|---|---|
| 6 mm | $0.70 – $1.00 |
| 8 mm | $1.00 – $1.80 |
| 10 mm | $2.00 – $4.00 |
| 12 mm | $2.30 – $6.00 |
Laminate Flooring Cost Breakdown
If you want to install laminate flooring in a big area like 1,000 square feet, plan your budget. Here’s a simple cost breakdown:
| Laminate Flooring Style | Average Cost per Sq Ft (Materials Only) | Average Total Cost per Sq Ft (Including Installation) |
|---|---|---|
| Embossed Wood Grain | $1.00 – $3.00 | $2.50 – $5.00 |
| High Gloss | $1.50 – $4.00 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Hand-Scraped | $2.00 – $4.50 | $3.50 – $7.00 |
| Wide Plank | $2.50 – $5.00 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Textured | $3.00 – $6.00 | $4.50 – $9.00 |
Cost of Laminate Materials
Laminate costs depend on quality, brand, and style. You might pay $1 to $4 per square foot for materials. For 1,000 square feet, that’s $1,000 to $4,000 for the materials.
Preparation Costs
You might have extra costs to prepare the floor. This includes taking out old floors, fixing the subfloor, or leveling it. It’s important to budget for this for a smooth installation process.
Labor Costs
Labor costs range from $2 to $3 per square foot. For 1,000 square feet, this means about $2,000 to $3,000 for labor. Labor rates can change based on location, job difficulty, and contractor experience.
Extras
Extras may include plank finish, underlayment, removing old flooring, and subfloor preparation or removal.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Finish | Matte: $1.00 – $4.40 per sq ft Semi-matte: $1.00 – $3.80 per sq ft Glossy: $1.70 – $5.60 per sq ft |
| Old Floor Removal | Professionals typically charge $50 – $70 per hour |
| Subfloor Repair or Preparation | $1.50 – $7.00 per sq ft |
| Underlay | All options cost between $30 and $50 per roll |
Tips for Budgeting for Laminate Flooring Installation
Research, Research, Research
Begin by looking at different laminate choices online and checking prices and styles at local home improvement stores. Knowing more helps with budgeting.
Set a Realistic Budget
Decide how much you want to spend on materials and installation. Leave some extra for surprises that might come up.
Compare Prices
Don’t pick the first option you see. Compare prices from different suppliers and contractors to find the best deal.
Consider DIY Options
If you’re good with tools and have DIY skills, you might save money by installing laminate flooring yourself. Just think about the time and effort it needs.
Opt for Budget-Friendly Styles
High-end laminate might look nice, but choosing simpler, budget-friendly styles can save you money without losing quality.
Bundle and Save
Some suppliers give discounts if you buy laminate flooring and installation together. Look for these deals to save money.
Plan for Hidden Costs
Remember to budget for extra costs like underlayment, trim, and transition pieces. These can add up quickly, so include them in your budget.
Get Multiple Quotes
When hiring a contractor, get quotes from at least three companies. This helps you understand the average cost and avoid paying too much.
Ask About Financing Options
Some suppliers and contractors offer ways to spread out the cost over time. Ask about any financing plans that might be available.
Plan for the Future
Using durable materials and getting professional installation can save money over time by reducing repairs and replacements.
How To Hire a Laminate Flooring Pro
Here are some tips for choosing the best flooring contractor to install laminate in your home.
- Make sure all flooring contractors are bonded and insured.
- Understand what is included in your price estimate.
- Look at online reviews to learn from past customer experiences.
- Inquire about project timelines and workmanship guarantees.
Ready to Turn Your Laminate Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the right laminate flooring is a big choice. Now that you know the main cost factors, you’re closer to making a perfect space. You don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
We’d love to help you with laminate flooring in a free talk with one of our flooring installation experts. From choosing the best laminate style to learning about installation and budgeting, we’re here to help you get floors you’ll love.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home flooring consultation and check if we serve your area.
