Cost Breakdown: Laminate vs. Hardwood Floors
September 27, 2023When choosing new floors, average cost often plays a significant role in the decision making process. Two popular type of flooring options—laminate and hardwood floors—offer the beauty of wood at different price points. In this cost comparison guide, we’ll break down the upfront expenses plus lifetime ownership costs of laminate versus hardwood flooring to help inform your budget. Let’s dive in!
Upfront Cost Comparison
The upfront cost to purchase and install laminate or hardwood floors can vary based on the product quality, manufacturer, and geographical area. Here's an overview:
Laminate Flooring Cost
For budget-friendly cost of laminate flooring, expect to pay:
- $1 - $5 per square foot for the flooring material
- $2 - $4 per square foot for professional installation
In total, laminate flooring ranges from $3 - $9 per sq. ft. installed. Expect to pay around $1,000 to $3,500 to install laminate floors in a 1,000 sq. ft. home.
Mid-range laminate wide planks cost $5 - $7 per sq. ft. High-end options run $8 - $12 per sq. ft. installed.
Hardwood Floor Cost
Solid hardwood flooring costs significantly more:
- $5 - $15 per square foot for materials
- $4 - $12 per sq. ft. for installation costs
In total, expect to pay $10 - $25 per sq. ft. installed for hardwood flooring.
To install 1,000 sq. ft. of hardwood will cost $10,000 to $25,000 typically for an entire floor.
Engineered wood flooring solid planks lower costs slightly, ranging from $8 - $20 per sq. ft. installed.
As you can see, laminate flooring planks provides major upfront savings over hardwood. But what about long term costs and additional costs?
Lifetime Ownership Cost Comparison for Types of Flooring Projects
The maintenance and lifespan of your floors also affect the overall investment. Let's compare ownership costs over a 25 year period for both types of flooring:
Laminate Ownership Costs
- Low maintenance = lower costs
- DIY friendly cleaning
- No need to refinish
- Replace every 10-15 years
- Total 25 year cost = $5 - $15 per sq. ft.
Laminate is budget-friendly long-term thanks to its durability and DIY maintenance. Outside of occasional replacement every 10-15 years, costs are minimal.
Hardwood Ownership Costs
- Requires professional refinishing every 5-10 years
- Specialized equipment needed for repairs
- May need spot repairs from pet damage, water damage etc.
- Replace every 25-50 years
- Total 25 year cost = $15 - $30 per sq. ft.
Hardwood's longevity comes with higher maintenance investments like refinishing and repairs. Costs add up over decades of use.
Over 25 years, laminate still maintains a significant cost advantage between $10 - $20 less per sq. ft.
When Does Hardwood Make Sense Cost-Wise?
Despite higher upfront and lifetime costs, solid hardwood floors may be worth the investment if:
- Your budget accommodates a premium flooring choice
- You plan to stay in the home long term to realize the 50+ year lifespan
- You want timeless floors to increase home resale value
- Your personal preference is natural real wood flooring and don't mind maintenance
- Your home layout makes replacement difficult. Open floor plans with few transition areas allow you to maximize hardwood's longevity.
For many homeowners, laminate provides an attractive, affordable wooden floor option. But hardwood is a smart and popular flooring choice if budget allows and you value natural real wood floors you can enjoy for generations when properly maintained.
Laminate vs. Hardwood - A Budget Comparison
Here is a summary budget comparison for 1,000 sq. ft. of flooring over 25 years:
Flooring Type Upfront Cost Lifetime Maintenance Cost Total 25 Year Cost
| Laminate Floors | $3,000 - $9,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Hardwood Floors | $10,000 - $25,000 | $5,000 - $15,000 | $15,000 - $30,000 |
As you can see, laminate provides significant project cost savings in both initial purchase price and long term maintenance costs compared to real hardwood flooring installation.
Get Expert Guidance on New Floors
This overview aims to provide an approximate comparison of average price points. Exact costs depend on your individual flooring selection, home layout, and installation process requirements.
The flooring experts at EasyStep Flooring are happy to provide quotes tailored to your specific project. We offer beautiful laminate and hardwood floors along with professional installation.
Contact us today to discuss your budget and flooring needs. Let's find the perfect flooring option for your lifestyle and home!
People Also Ask
What's more affordable, laminate or hardwood floors?
Clean Laminate flooring is significantly more affordable than hardwood for both upfront costs and long term ownership. Laminate costs $3 - $9 per square foot installed compared to $10 - $25 per square footage for hardwood. And laminate has lower maintenance costs over its lifespan. So laminate provides the best value if you're budget conscious.
Why is hardwood so much more expensive than laminate?
Three key factors make solid wood floor more expensive option:
- Hardwood is milled from solid piece of oak, maple, etc. which costs more than laminates made from synthetic materials.
- Hardwood requires specialized installation for a perfect fit and lasting durability.
- Refinishing hardwood every 5-10 years adds to long term costs. Laminate doesn't require refinishing.
Should I install laminate or hardwood in my home?
If cost is your main concern, laminate makes more sense for most homeowners. But if budget allows and you want natural wood floors to increase home value, hardwood may be worth the investment. Consider your budget, longevity, and maintenance tolerance when choosing.
What are the maintenance costs of laminate vs. hardwood?
Laminate maintenance is DIY-friendly, only requiring occasional sweeping, mopping, and replacement every 10-15 years. Hardwood requires professional refinishing every 5-10 years for $1 - $5 per square foot, plus repairs as needed. So laminate's maintenance costs are significantly less.
What affects the costs of laminate and hardwood floors?
Material grade, manufacturing process, geographical region, installation requirements, and professional labor costs all impact the rates of both laminate and hardwood floors. Higher-end options cost more for both. Get an itemized quote for your specific home.
How can I get accurate pricing estimates on new floors?
Contact the flooring experts at EasyStep Flooring! We'll visit your home to measure, assess your project needs, and provide customized quotes for beautiful new laminate or hardwood floors. Get pricing tailored to your exact specifications.
