Simple Steps to Save on Hardwood Flooring Cost

01/15/2020

Hardwood is undoubtedly one of the best flooring options for individuals renovating their house or building a new home. Though hardwood can be a little more expensive option compared to others, it is not impossible to save on hardwood flooring cost if you are prepared to do some homework. If you are really interested in having a new hardwood floor without breaking your bank, it is important for you to tread prudently. Depending on the options you select, hardwood floorings are available for a wide range of prices. Some of these factors include the species of wood, solid or engineered wood, and wood cut and grade. The cost of hardwood floor also depends on the amount of cleanup and preparation work required.

Hardwood Flooring Cost Breakup:

When an estimate is prepared by a hardwood floor contractor, materials and labour are the primary components of the cost.

Material is one area where you can significantly add or subtract from your overall expense. If you are looking for a less pricey option, you may opt for oak and American cherry. On the other hand, Brazilian walnut and mahogany can be great options at a higher price range. As far as engineered woods are concerned, the price depends on the thickness of the top veneer and the number of plywood layers below it. The baseboards will be charged by your contractor by the foot. The contractors will also charge for the fasteners as well as vapour barriers. It is customary for the contractors to charge labour by the square foot. Please remember that the labour cost can be higher for floors with irregular shapes and vents.

Also, please remember that the installation of a new hardwood floor may involve certain unforeseen expenses. This is particularly true for subfloors that are not flat enough or have concealed moisture. If your old flooring needs to be removed and disposed, there will be additional cost.

Tips for Reducing Cost:

If you are aware of the different types of wood flooring and the differences between them, it is possible for you to opt for less-expensive options that may work fine for you.

• If you have a worn-looking hardwood floor, think of refinishing instead of replacement. Unlike engineered woods, solid hardwood can be refinished several times.
• As mentioned already, one of the best ways to reduce cost is to opt for relatively inexpensive species such as oak and hickory.
• The appearance of grains in the wood is caused by the way it is cut and this has a serious impact on pricing. The least expensive option for you is to opt for plain-sawn cut, in which, the grain runs across the board in a wavelike pattern.
• It is also possible to reduce cost by choosing wood with the right grading. In general, planks that are graded ‘clear’ are more expensive.
• If you have old flooring, you can also save money by removing and disposing it properly on your own.
• These days, many homeowners prefer saving on installation of hardwood floors by completing this task on their own. However, please remember that this requires professional expertise and is not a do-it-yourself project by any means.  

Instead of worrying about the cost of your new or remodelled hardwood flooring, please contact us at Enoak for the best possible options within your budget. Please contact our experts today to discuss your project.