Laminate Wooden Flooring Cost

Laminate Wooden Flooring Cost: What You Need to Know

Laminate wooden flooring is a popular and versatile flooring option that mimics the look and feel of natural hardwood at a more affordable price. It's made of a core layer of high-density fiberboard (HDF) with a decorative layer topped with a protective wear layer. However, the cost of laminate wooden flooring can vary depending on several factors, so it's important to understand these factors before making a decision.

Cost Factors

The main factors that influence the cost of laminate wooden flooring include:

Quality: Higher-quality laminate flooring with a thicker wear layer and more durable construction generally costs more.
Style: Some styles, such as those that mimic exotic hardwoods, may be more expensive.
Size: Larger planks tend to be more expensive than smaller ones.
Installation Method: Click-lock installation is generally cheaper than glue-down installation.
Underlayment: The type of underlayment used can affect the overall cost.
Labor Costs: The cost of installation varies depending on the complexity of the project and the location.

Average Cost

The average cost of laminate wooden flooring ranges from $1 to $6 per square foot, not including installation. The cost of installation typically ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot. This means that the total cost of laminate wooden flooring, including installation, can range from $3 to $11 per square foot.

Installation Costs

The cost of installation varies depending on the method used. Click-lock installation, which involves simply locking the planks together, is generally cheaper than glue-down installation, which requires adhesive to bond the planks to the subfloor. The cost of click-lock installation typically ranges from $1 to $2 per square foot, while the cost of glue-down installation ranges from $2 to $4 per square foot.

Underlayment Costs

Underlayment is a thin layer of material that is installed under the laminate flooring to provide cushioning and sound insulation. The type of underlayment used can affect the overall cost. Basic foam underlayment costs around $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot, while more advanced underlayments, such as those with moisture barriers or soundproofing properties, can cost up to $1 per square foot.

Additional Costs

In addition to the cost of the flooring, installation, and underlayment, there may be additional costs to consider, such as:

Moldings: Baseboards, quarter rounds, and other moldings can add to the overall cost.
Transitions: Transitions are used to connect different types of flooring, such as laminate and carpet, and can also add to the cost.
Refinishing: While laminate flooring is generally durable, it may need to be refinished over time, which can add to the overall cost.