Laminate Flooring Cost per Square Foot
The cost of installing laminate flooring can be between $2,000 and $28,000, depending on how big the area is and the quality of the materials.
Laminate flooring can cost as little as $3 per square foot for basic options. For more premium choices, it could be $5 or more per square foot. Your budget and desired style will guide your choice.
Here is a breakdown of potential costs for 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
Thin laminate can resist scratches and dents, but it bends more easily and is noisier to walk on, so it’s good for places with little foot traffic.
Thick, 12-millimeter laminate is best for busy areas. It costs more, but you might not need extra layers or a perfectly flat floor underneath.
| 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 add laminate flooring to a big space, like 1,000 square feet, you’ll need to plan your budget. Here’s a simple cost guide:
| 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 flooring prices depend on quality, brand, and style. You might pay $1 to $4 per square foot for laminate. For 1,000 square feet, that’s $1,000 to $4,000 just for the materials.
Preparation Costs
If your subfloor needs work, you may have extra costs. This could include taking out old floors, fixing subfloor damage, or making surfaces even. Plan for this to ensure a smooth installation process.
Labor Costs
Labor costs are around $2 to $3 per square foot. For 1,000 square feet, it might cost $2,000 to $3,000. Labor costs can change based on location, job difficulty, and contractor experience.
Extras
Extras can include plank finish, underlayment, removing old floors, and subfloor prep.
| 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 usually 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
Do Your Homework
Check out laminate flooring online and at local stores to learn about prices and styles. Knowing more helps with budgeting.
Create a Budget
Decide how much you can spend on materials and installation. Leave a little extra for any surprise costs.
Shop Around
Look at different options. Compare prices from various suppliers and contractors to find the best deal.
Think About DIY
If you’re good with tools, you could install the laminate flooring yourself to save money. Consider if it’s worth the time and effort.
Choose Affordable Styles
Pick budget-friendly laminate styles to save money without losing quality. Simple designs can be a good choice.
Look for Discounts
Some suppliers offer deals if you buy both their laminate flooring and installation services. Look for these bundles to save more.
Prepare for Extra Costs
Remember to budget for things like underlayment and trim. These extra costs can add up, so include them in your plan.
Get Several Quotes
When hiring a contractor, get quotes from at least three companies. This helps you understand average costs and avoid overpaying.
Inquire About Financing
Ask suppliers and contractors if they have financing options to spread out the cost of your project. Check out any available financing plans.
Think Long-Term
Using durable materials and professional installation can save you money later by reducing repairs and replacements.
How To Hire a Laminate Flooring Pro
Here are some tips for choosing a flooring contractor to install laminate at your home.
- Make sure the contractor is bonded and insured.
- Understand what is included in your price estimate.
- Look at online reviews to see customer feedback.
- 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 parts, you’re closer to making a great space. 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 picking the best laminate style to knowing how it’s installed and planning costs, our team helps you get floors you’ll enjoy for a long time.
Contact us today to set up your free in-home flooring meeting and see if we serve your area.
