Laminate Flooring Cost per Square Foot
The cost for installing laminate flooring can be between $2,000 and $28,000, depending on size and material quality.
Laminate flooring prices start at about $3 per square foot for cheaper options. For premium choices, it may cost $5 or more per square foot. Your budget and style preference will guide your decision.
Here’s what you might spend on laminate flooring:
| 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 less foot traffic.
Thicker, 12-millimeter laminate is ideal for busy areas. It costs more, but you might not need underlayment or a perfect floor base.
| 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’re planning to install laminate flooring in a large area like 1,000 square feet, you’ll need to 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
The price of laminate varies by quality, brand, and style. Typically, it costs $1 to $4 per square foot. For 1,000 square feet, expect to pay $1,000 to $4,000 just for materials.
Preparation Costs
You might need to spend more on preparing your subfloor. This includes removing old flooring, fixing damage, or leveling the floor. These costs vary but are important for a smooth installation process.
Labor Costs
Labor usually costs $2 to $3 per square foot. For 1,000 square feet, this is about $2,000 to $3,000. Labor costs depend on location, job difficulty, and contractor experience.
Extras
Extras include plank finish, underlayment, removing old flooring, and preparing the subfloor.
| 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 | Typically $50 – $70 per hour |
| Subfloor Repair or Preparation | $1.50 – $7.00 per sq ft |
| Underlay | Costs range from $30 to $50 per roll |
Tips for Budgeting for Laminate Flooring Installation
Research, Research, Research
Look online for different laminate styles and visit home improvement stores to learn about prices and styles. Knowing more helps with budgeting.
Set a Realistic Budget
Decide how much you can spend on materials and installation. Remember to keep extra money for unexpected costs.
Compare Prices
Check prices from different suppliers and contractors to find the best deal.
Consider DIY Options
If you are good with tools and have DIY skills, you might save money by installing the flooring yourself. Think about the time and effort it will take.
Opt for Budget-Friendly Styles
Choosing simple, affordable laminate styles can help you save money without losing quality.
Bundle and Save
Some suppliers offer discounts if you buy both flooring and installation services together. Look for these deals to save money.
Plan for Hidden Costs
Include extra costs like underlayment, trim, and transition pieces in your budget, as they can add up.
Get Multiple Quotes
Ask for quotes from at least three contractors to understand the average cost and avoid overpaying.
Ask About Financing Options
Some suppliers and contractors have financing options to spread the cost over time. Check out available financing plans.
Plan for the Future
Using durable materials and professional installation can save money over time by reducing repairs and replacements.
How To Hire a Laminate Flooring Pro
Tips for picking a flooring contractor for your home’s laminate:
- Make sure the contractor is bonded and insured.
- Understand what the price estimate includes.
- Look at online reviews to hear from other customers.
- Inquire about the timeline and workmanship warranties.
Ready to Turn Your Laminate Flooring Vision Into Reality?
Picking the right laminate flooring is an important choice. Now that you know the main cost factors, you’re closer to making the perfect space. But you don’t have to do it alone.
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 costs, our team is here to make sure you get floors you’ll love for a long time.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home flooring consultation and check if we serve your area.
