Quick Answer: Hardwood floor installation costs $6–$12/sqft installed including materials and labor. A 1,000 sqft area runs $6,000–$12,000 on average. Exotic species and wide-plank floors can exceed $20/sqft.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Hardwood Floors?
| Hardwood Type | Material Cost | Installation | Total Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood (unfinished) | $3–$8/sqft | $3–$5/sqft | $6–$13/sqft |
| Engineered Hardwood | $2–$7/sqft | $2–$4/sqft | $4–$11/sqft |
| Prefinished Solid/Engineered | $4–$10/sqft | $2–$4/sqft | $6–$14/sqft |
| Exotic / Wide-Plank | $6–$15/sqft | $3–$6/sqft | $9–$21/sqft |
Labor Cost Breakdown
Labor alone runs $2–$5 per sqft depending on installation method. Nail-down is most common on wood subfloors. Glue-down is standard over concrete. Floating installations (click-lock) cost the least in labor and are a common DIY approach for engineered products.
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View on Amazon →Subfloor Preparation
Squeaky, uneven, or damaged subfloors add cost before any flooring goes down. Subfloor repairs typically run $1–$3/sqft extra. Leveling compound for high spots adds $200–$600 for a 1,000 sqft area.
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Additional Cost Factors
- Old floor removal: $1–$2/sqft for carpet; $2–$3/sqft for tile or glued vinyl.
- Stair nosing and transitions: $50–$200 per threshold or step.
- Baseboards and shoe molding: $1–$3/linear foot installed.
- Finishing (sand, stain, 3 coats): $3–$5/sqft on unfinished hardwood.
What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood?
Solid hardwood is milled from one piece of wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer over plywood layers—it handles moisture better and can often be installed below grade.
How long does hardwood floor installation take?
A professional crew can typically install 500–1,000 sqft per day. Add 1–3 days for acclimation time before installation and 1 day for trim and finishing.
Can hardwood floors be installed over concrete?
Engineered hardwood can be glued or floated over concrete. Solid hardwood needs a plywood subfloor or sleeper system over concrete to allow for fastening.
How often do hardwood floors need to be refinished?
On average every 7–10 years, depending on traffic and finish type. Refinishing costs $3–$5/sqft and can restore a floor's original appearance multiple times.
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