Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Square Foot: Factors, Prices, and Value
Hardwood floors are timeless, elegant, and long-lasting. But if you’re considering installing them, one question instantly comes to mind: what is the hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
Most blogs will toss around wide ranges — $6 to $18, $7 to $25, $3,000 to $30,000 — and leave you confused. At Sandover Hardwood Floors, we know homeowners deserve more than a number. You deserve a transparent, detailed explanation of what drives the cost, how to make smart choices, and how to get maximum value for your investment.
Let’s break down exactly what hardwood flooring cost per square foot really means, why the range is so wide, and how to plan your project without hidden surprises.
1. Average Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Square Foot
On average, the hardwood flooring cost per square foot (including materials and labor) ranges between $6 and $18. That means:
A 200 sq. ft. room could cost $1,200–$3,600
A 1,000 sq. ft. home could cost $6,000–$18,000
A 2,000 sq. ft. project could climb from $12,000 up to $36,000
So why such a large range? Because wood type, labor complexity, and project extras make the difference.
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2. Materials: The Largest Influence
When calculating hardwood flooring cost per square foot, the material you choose is the single biggest factor.
Oak & Maple: $4–$10 per sq. ft. — durable, classic, and versatile.
Hickory & Ash: $6–$12 per sq. ft. — dense, rustic, and resilient.
Cherry & Walnut: $7–$11 per sq. ft. — rich, elegant, and softer underfoot.
Exotics (Teak, Brazilian Walnut, Mahogany): $9–$20+ per sq. ft. — premium beauty, premium price.
At Sandover, we help you choose a species that balances cost, durability, and style — without pushing you into overpriced “upgrades.”
3. Labor Costs: 50–70% of the Price
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that labor makes up half to two-thirds of the hardwood flooring cost per square foot. Skilled installers charge between $3 and $8 per sq. ft. depending on:
Complexity: Straightforward layouts are cheaper. Stairs, angles, and inlays add cost.
Method: Nail-down is standard; glue-down and floating floors can shift pricing.
Experience: Inexperienced crews may quote lower — but mistakes often cost more in repairs later.
Our difference? Every Sandover installation is handled by in-house craftsmen, trained to ensure every board fits flawlessly.
4. Subfloor Preparation: The Silent Cost Driver
The condition of your subfloor can add $1–$3 per sq. ft. to the total. Leveling, moisture barriers, or replacing damaged sections are sometimes unavoidable.
Competitors often skip this conversation until installation day. At Sandover, we include subfloor assessment upfront so you know the true hardwood flooring cost per square foot before the first plank arrives.
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5. Prefinished vs. Unfinished Hardwood
Prefinished boards cost more upfront per square foot but save on labor because finishing is done at the factory. Unfinished boards are cheaper to buy, but the sanding, staining, and finishing are performed on-site, raising the labor side of the hardwood flooring cost per square foot.
Our team helps you weigh the trade-offs. Want speed and convenience? Prefinished. Want a custom stain that perfectly matches your space? Unfinished may be best.
6. Hidden Extras That Affect Price
When you ask about hardwood flooring cost per square foot, remember to factor in these often-overlooked items:
Furniture moving: $20–$50 per room
Old flooring removal: $1–$5 per sq. ft. (tile and glued floors cost more)
Transitions, trims, and thresholds: extra materials not always listed in quotes
Stair treads and risers: much higher per sq. ft. cost due to labor intensity
At Sandover, we believe no homeowner should be blindsided. That’s why our quotes detail every line item clearly.
7. Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood
Both look beautiful, but their cost per square foot differs:
Solid hardwood: $5–$28 per sq. ft. (durable, refinishable many times)
Engineered hardwood: $6–$23 per sq. ft. (more stable in humid climates, slightly less refinishable)
The key is choosing based on your home environment and long-term goals.
Explore repair and restoration services for all hardwood types
8. Professional Installation vs. DIY
You could save $3–$8 per sq. ft. in labor by doing it yourself. But DIY installation mistakes — uneven boards, poor moisture control, gaps — can slash the lifespan of your floors.
Hiring Sandover guarantees a flawless finish, backed by 80+ years of experience. For most homeowners, the added investment per square foot is worth decades of peace of mind.
9. Long-Term ROI
Yes, hardwood flooring costs more upfront than vinyl or laminate. But when properly installed, it lasts 50–100 years, can be refinished multiple times, and boosts resale value dramatically.
In fact, hardwood floors routinely offer one of the highest returns on investment in home upgrades. The true hardwood flooring cost per square foot isn’t just about today’s bill — it’s about value across generations.
Conclusion: The Answer to Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Square Foot
So, how much does it really cost? The hardwood flooring cost per square foot generally falls between $6 and $18 — but the real answer depends on your wood type, subfloor, layout, finish, and installer.
At Sandover, we’ve been helping Greater Vancouver homeowners make the right choice since 1939. We don’t just install floors. We craft hardwood that lasts for generations.
Start your hardwood flooring journey with Sandover today
Frequently Asked Questions About Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Square Foot
What is the average hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
On average, homeowners spend $6 to $18 per square foot for hardwood flooring, including both materials and labor. Basic oak might be at the lower end, while exotic woods like teak or mahogany are priced at the higher end.
Why does hardwood flooring cost per square foot vary so much?
The price depends on wood species, plank thickness, installation method, labor complexity, and subfloor condition. Extras like stairs, trims, and moisture barriers also influence the total hardwood flooring cost per square foot.
Is engineered hardwood cheaper than solid hardwood?
Sometimes. Engineered hardwood flooring cost per square foot ranges from $6–$23, while solid hardwood ranges from $5–$28. Engineered is more stable in humid environments, while solid hardwood can be refinished more times over its lifespan.
Does the size of my room affect hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
Yes. While larger spaces require more material overall, the per-square-foot rate can sometimes be slightly lower because installers spread their fixed costs across more square footage.
How much more do exotic woods increase hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
Exotic species like Brazilian walnut, mahogany, or teak can increase costs to $12–$20 per square foot or more. These woods are prized for their durability and unique grain but come at a premium.
Are there hidden costs beyond hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
Yes. Removal of old flooring ($1–$5 per sq. ft.), subfloor repairs ($1–$3 per sq. ft.), and furniture moving ($20–$50 per room) are often billed separately. Always ask your contractor if these are included in the estimate.
Ready for Beautiful Hardwood Floors?
For over 80 years, Sandover Floors has been restoring, refinishing, and installing hardwood across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. From Vancouver and Burnaby to Surrey, Langley, and Chilliwack, we bring craftsmanship, care, and premium finishes to every project.
Whether your floors need a full restoration, a fresh refinish, or custom staining to match your style, our team makes the process simple, transparent, and stress-free. Homeowners have trusted us since 1939 to protect their investment and transform their living spaces with hardwood floors that last.
Metro Vancouver: 778-650-5108
Fraser Valley: 778-771-5571
