How Much Does Laminate Flooring Cost to Install
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In this guide
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Calculator
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Per Square Foot
Laminate Flooring Cost by Type
Wood Laminate Flooring Costs by Type
Wood Laminate Flooring Costs by Type of Texture
Price of Laminate Floor by Thickness
Laminate Flooring Prices by Finish
Cost of Underlayment for Laminate Flooring
Labor Costs to Install Laminate Flooring
Cost Factors to Install Laminate Flooring
Laminate Flooring Installation Prices by Company
Laminate Flooring Prices by Feature
Laminate Flooring Molding and Trim
Cost to Remove Carpet and Install Laminate Flooring
Laminate Flooring vs Hardwood Cost
Laminate Flooring vs Carpet Cost
Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring
Cost to Remove Laminate Flooring
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Calculator
The average cost of laminate flooring can vary greatly, depending on a range of factors. For example, laminate floors fitted with underlayment and ones that do not need waxing tend to be more expensive, so these factors should be taken into account when using any laminate floor price calculator. Your location can also impact your laminate floor project's final cost because labor and material prices vary from state to state. Enter your zip code into the laminate floor quote calculator will show you an estimated average price for a typical 200-square-foot installation of laminate flooring with sound-resistant underlayment, along with high and low costs.
Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Calculator
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See Laminate Flooring Installation Cost Calculator Breakdown
Cost
Materials
200 sq.ft. of Glenwood Oak laminate floor, 7.5" wide, 72" long, and 7/16" thick, including a 10% waste
$393
200 sq.ft. of polyethylene film, including a 10% waste
$90
Labor
Placing 200 sq.ft. of poly film and installing 200 sq.ft. of laminate flooring
$734
Materials
200 sq.ft. of Shelton Hickory laminate floor, 7.5" wide, 72" long, and 7/16" thick, including a 10% waste
$539
200 sq.ft. of sound-reduction underlayment, including a 10% waste
$198
Skim-coat for 200 sq.ft.
$116
Shelton Hickory floor molding for 200 sq.ft., including a 10% waste
$254
Labor
Placing 200 sq.ft. of sound-reduction underlayment, installing 200 sq.ft. of laminate flooring and floor molding, applying a skim-coat, and scraping the base concrete flooring to remove residue
$1,100
Materials
300 sq.ft. of Kentucky Oak laminate floor, 7.5" wide, 72" long, and 7/16" thick, including a 10% waste
$1,941
300 sq.ft. of 3-in-1 underlayment, including a 10% waste
$712
Skim-coat for 300 sq.ft.
$174
Kentucky Oak floor molding for 300 sq.ft., including a 10% waste
$202
Labor
Placing 300 sq.ft. of 3-in-1 underlayment, installing 300 sq.ft. of laminate flooring and floor molding, applying a skim-coat, and scraping the base concrete flooring to remove residue
$1,587
Total
$1,217
$2,207
$4,616
The average cost to install laminate flooring is between $6 and $14 per sq.ft., including labor and material costs. If you buy the flooring and install it yourself, expect to pay $1.50 to $6 per sq.ft.. Other aspects can increase the cost, such as if the subfloor 1 needs prepping or the project involves removing old flooring.
Additionally, the room size has a big impact on the project price. Larger rooms require more flooring, resulting in higher material costs. Installing laminate flooring in a tiny entrance area of about 100 sq.ft. is much cheaper than installing laminate flooring in a 300+ sq.ft. living area.
| Room Size | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| 100 sq.ft. | $600 - $1,400 |
| 200 sq.ft. | $1,200 - $2,800 |
| 300 sq.ft. | $1,800 - $4,200 |
| 500 sq.ft. | $3,000 - $7,000 |
| 600 sq.ft. | $3,600 - $8,400 |
| 1,000 sq.ft. | $6,000 - $14,000 |
| 1,500 sq.ft. | $9,000 - $21,000 |
| 2,000 sq.ft. | $12,000 - $28,000 |
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Laminate Flooring Cost by Type
While some people picture a material similar to wood when they think about laminate flooring, this material comes in various styles. Laminate can easily imitate tile or stone and many colors and shades of wood. This is because the top layer can be printed in any pattern before laminating, so this flooring can easily come in hundreds of colors, patterns, and styles. Costs vary by the overall type and the material color, style, and size.
| Type | Average Costs per Square Foot (Only Material) |
|---|---|
| Wood | $1.50 - $3 |
| Stone | $3.50 - $4 |
| Tile | $3.50 - $5 |
Wood Laminate Flooring Cost
Wood laminate flooring costs between $1.50 and $3 a square foot. Wood-look is the most common type of laminate flooring. It is much more available than the other types. You can find wood-look flooring in a range of colors, sizes, and floor thicknesses. Most are click-lock, meaning they can be installed as a "floating" floor. Some older types may be nail or glue-down, but they are not nearly as common.
Stone Laminate Flooring Cost
Stone-look laminate flooring ranges from $3.50 to $4 a square foot. This laminate is much less common than the wood-look variety. It is available in a range of different colors but with few styles. Most give you the appearance of a tumbled or antiqued stone floor. The material is sold in click-lock tiles rather than planks. The tiles are usually larger and may have several "sizes" of "stone" on one tile. When clicked together, it imitates a stone tile floor in a repeating pattern.
Tile Laminate Flooring Cost
Tile laminate flooring averages $3.50 to $5 a square foot. This laminate is more widely available than stone-look but not as available as wood-look. The tile laminate can appear like stone, concrete, or "terrazzo." The tiles are designed to click-lock together like the wood-look planks. So while these are tiles, they are not grouted or sealed on the edges. This means they are not suitable for wet areas because water could get between the joints 2 and cause the flooring to swell. When this happens, the tiles could warp.
Wood Laminate Flooring Costs by Type
Buyers have plenty of options when choosing and purchasing wood laminate flooring. There are many types and styles of wood, including acacia, beech, hickory, oak, and walnut. Each has a different color and pattern, offering a wide range of aesthetics. The better-looking and more desirable woods, like elm and hickory, are more expensive:
| Type | Average Costs per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Acacia | $0.99 - $2.20 |
| Beech | $0.99 - $2.89 |
| Oak | $0.99 - $3.69 |
| Elm | $1.40 - $3.70 |
| Maple | $1.50 - $3.80 |
| Hickory | $1.50 - $4.50 |
| Cherry | $1.70 - $2.80 |
| Walnut | $1.99 - $2.80 |
Acacia Laminate Flooring Cost
Acacia laminate flooring costs between $0.99 and $2.20 a square foot. Acacia laminate is a rich, deep brown color. It has a warm reddish undertone that enables it to complement many spaces. The boards usually also feature a darker brown vein. Depending on the manufacturer, you may also get some lighter sections that appear golden or as though they were glowing. It is available in many finishes, from polished to handscraped.
Beech Laminate Flooring Cost
Beech laminate costs between $0.99 and $2.89 a square foot. Beech laminate is a very light reddish-brown color. Any apparent grain is straight and even, with just a slightly darker reddish-brown tone. This is a nice light-colored floor that works well in darker rooms. Beech is a much less common color than others. Therefore, you may not find as many options for finish, tone, and variation.
Oak Laminate Flooring Cost
Oak laminate flooring ranges from $0.99 to $3.69 a square foot. Just like wood oak flooring, laminate oak flooring comes in a few styles and colors. Oak can be split into groups like red oak, white oak, and black oak, with red and white being the two most common. Red oak laminate has a pink/red undertone and generally looks warmer. White oak laminate has a blue/gray undertone and appears cooler. All types have some prominent grain and color variation.
Elm Laminate Flooring Cost
Elm laminate flooring averages $1.40 to $3.70 a square foot. Elm was once a very popular flooring material but is no longer available in new cut wood because of Dutch elm disease. Therefore, the only way to get this color is through reclaimed wood or laminates. Elm laminate flooring has the same light color with a darker grain that true elm has. The laminate is available in a range of widths and styles. This includes several finishes, from polished to handscraped.
Maple Laminate Flooring Cost
Maple laminate flooring costs between $1.50 and $3.80 a square foot. Maple laminate has a clear light color with little veining. The veining it does have can vary from straight to "curly," depending on the manufacturer. This is a nice even color for flooring, so it works well in many homes. When looking for a floor without many veins that competes with your surrounding furnishings, this is a good option. It also works well in modern homes.
Hickory Laminate Flooring Cost
Hickory laminate ranges from $1.50 to $4.50 a square foot. Hickory laminate has a much more pronounced grain than other colors and styles. Hickory can have very thick veins and ranges in color, from medium to very dark. The background color is a creamy light tan, so the veins tend to stand out prominently. You can also find a "stained" hickory that blends the veins. This a very attractive floor that stands out in any setting.
Cherry Laminate Flooring Cost
Cherry laminate flooring costs between $1.70 and $2.80 a square foot. Cherry is a unique color that can have a lot of range. True cherry is a medium reddish-brown that grows darker and redder. Cherry laminate may be either of these shades. It can also be a "stained" cherry, which brings out the grain's deepest tones. In this case, the cherry can be a rich burgundy color with even darker veining.
Walnut Laminate Flooring Cost
Walnut laminate averages $1.99 to $2.80 a square foot. Walnut laminate has a rich brown color. Walnut's color ranges from a mid-warm tone to a much darker and cooler shade. Sometimes, depending on the manufacturer, it can make this shift on one floor. This can be a very attractive flooring for those who want a dark floor with warmth and character. The variation and color also mean this is a good color if you want to hide dirt.
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Wood Laminate Flooring Costs by Type of Texture
Laminate comes in various textures to give off a look of real hardwood, stone, or concrete flooring. And like these other materials, it can be finished in various ways. The finished floor may be perfectly smooth or have a mild to moderate texture, depending on the type. Like all floors, the deeper the texture, the harder the floor may be to keep clean:
| Texture | Average Costs per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Smooth | $1.69 - $2.59 |
| Embossed | $1.79 - $2.99 |
| Embossed in register (EIR) | $1.89 - $3.99 |
| Brushed | $1.99 - $3.99 |
| Oiled | $2.59 - $5.59 |
| Handscraped | $2.99 - $5.99 |
Smooth Laminate Flooring
Smooth laminate flooring costs between $1.69 and $2.59. Many types of laminate flooring come with a smooth or satin finish. This finish is soft and smooth without any deep grain textures. The surface is usually very shiny and easy-to-clean. This makes it a good choice for areas that do not see much foot traffic, such as bedrooms. Avoid using this flooring in areas where dog nails or furniture could cause scratches.
Embossed Laminate Flooring
The cost of embossed laminate flooring ranges from $1.79 to $2.99 a square foot. Embossed laminate has more depth and texture than the smooth style. This means it is harder to clean but also not as slippery. It is easier to hide wear and scratches on this style. It can also have a slightly more natural appearance. The surface is still fairly smooth, however. There are little-to-no rough edges.
Embossed in Register (EIR) Laminate Flooring
EIR laminate flooring costs between $1.89 and $3.99 a square foot. This embossing produces a more subtle texture. The finished look helps create the natural look of hardwood. When done on a color with grain or color variation, the process adds depth and texture to the floor's alignment. This surface still feels fairly smooth. There are no rough edges, and while it is slightly harder to clean, it is also better at hiding wear.
Brushed Laminate Flooring
Brushed laminate flooring averages $1.99 to $3.99 a square foot. Brushed laminate flooring has a soft textured finish that has the appearance of having been brushed by metal wire. The texture is rougher and more pronounced than the embossed textures. This can give the floor a more rustic appearance and helps hide wear and scratches much better than embossing. The method helps bring more character to the flooring, particularly when used on a type with lots of grain. This texture can be harder to clean.
Oiled Laminate Flooring
Oiled laminate ranges from $2.59 to $5.59 a square foot. Oiled laminate flooring is designed to look like well-oiled hardwood. The finish has a rich gloss and depth that cannot be found in the traditional smooth style. The surface is not completely flat, even though it is very glossy. The slight texture beneath the gloss provides more depth and interest. This is a good finish for a wide range of homes, from traditional to contemporary.
Handscraped Laminate Flooring
Handscraped laminate flooring costs between $2.99 and $5.99 a square foot. This is a rough and rustic texture designed to mimic the look of a handscraped hardwood floor. The texture is deeper and very visibly pronounced. While the texture on other laminate types may be more felt than seen, this texture is obvious. It can have a matte or polished finish to further change the appearance. It looks good on all colors but works best for cottage, farmhouse, and other rustic-style homes.
Price of Laminate Floor by Thickness
Laminate flooring is offered in different thickness levels. Typically, laminate is available from 7 mm to 12 mm in thickness. All laminates are dent-resistant, but the thicker the laminate, the less resistant it is to bending caused by an uneven subfloor. The thicker the laminate also means less noise resistance:
| Thickness | Average Costs per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| 6 mm | $0.69 - $0.99 |
| 7 mm | $0.89 - $0.99 |
| 8 mm | $0.99 - $1.79 |
| 10 mm | $1.99 - $3.99 |
| 12 mm | $2.29 - $5.99 |
6 mm Laminate Flooring Prices
6 mm laminate flooring costs between $0.69 and $0.99. This is the thinnest laminate flooring and is available in a few colors and styles. It usually has a smooth texture. This laminate is not as long-lasting as others. It is also harder to install. You may need a thicker underlayment 3 or a perfectly flat subfloor.
7 mm Laminate Flooring Prices
7 mm laminate floors average $0.89 to $0.99 a square foot. This is a slightly thicker flooring. It is also not as widely available in different colors and styles as other thicknesses. Smooth is the most common texture. While it is slightly easier to install than 6 mm, it can still be difficult. It needs a smooth, flat underlayment or subfloor. The biggest issue at this thickness can be a louder floor when walking on it.
8 mm Laminate Flooring Prices
8 mm laminate flooring ranges from $0.99 to $1.79 a square foot. This is the most popular laminate thickness. It is thin enough to be inexpensive but thick enough to be easier to install. It still requires an underlayment but not as thick. It is available in most styles, colors, and finishes. It can still be loud underfoot if you do not use the correct underlayment.
10 mm Laminate Flooring Prices
10 mm laminate flooring costs between $1.99 and $3.99 a square foot. This is the second most popular thickness. It is easy to install and comes in the widest range of colors, styles, and finishes. It is a little quieter underfoot and does not require a thick underlayment. All laminates require some underlayment, but this thickness can reduce that underlayment's thickness. With the right underlayment, this floor can be very comfortable underfoot.
12 mm Laminate Flooring Prices
12 mm laminate flooring averages $2.29 to $5.99 a square foot. 12 mm laminate is not as common as other thicknesses. At this thickness, it is more difficult to install. It requires an underlayment but does not require a very thick model. It is available in all finishes and styles. It is also fairly quiet and comfortable underfoot.
Laminate Flooring Prices by Finish
Laminate is also offered in different finishes. A finish is different from a texture, but the two go hand-in-hand. Some textures like oil-finished are naturally glossy, while others like handscraped are more likely matte. Sometimes, you can choose between different finishes and textures to find a unique style for your home:
| Finish | Average Costs per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Semi-Matte | $0.99 - $3.79 |
| Matte | $0.99 - $4.40 |
| Gloss | $1.69 - $5.60 |
Semi-Matte Finish
A semi-matte finish, also known as a medium gloss finish, is halfway between matte and high gloss. It provides a decent amount of shine and sheen while also being more subtle than the full gloss variants. It is a good option for those on a budget, costing between $0.99 and $3.79 per sq.ft.
Matte Finish
This finish has a flat or matte appearance. Matte laminate floors give you an authentic natural wood look without the shimmer and sheen of glossier styles. One of the advantages of matte laminate flooring is that it hides scratches more effectively. It is available in a wide range of colors and styles and costs between $0.99 and $4.40 per sq.ft.
Gloss Laminate Flooring
Glossy laminates have a very polished, high-gloss surface. They reflect light easily and can brighten darker rooms. They can also make rooms appear larger, particularly when using a cooler-toned floor. Darker glossy floors add character and beauty to a room and work well in traditional settings. They cost between $1.69 and $5.60 per sq.ft.
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Cost of Underlayment for Laminate Flooring
Underlayments are essential for laminate floor installations. This is a separate material rolled out over your subfloor for your laminate installation. The thinner your laminate, the thicker your underlayment must be.
Underlayments act as a layer of support between the laminate and subfloor, allowing the laminate to float while providing stability, support, and noise reduction.
A separate moisture barrier ($35 per roll) is required for below-grade installations or moisture-prone areas. Underlayment starts at $30 to $50 a roll. The thicker the underlayment, the more expensive and harder it is to roll out and install.
Labor Costs to Install Laminate Flooring
The average cost to install laminate flooring is $4 to $8 a square foot. This price includes the cost of installing the underlayment and laminate. Laminate is not difficult to install and can usually be done in a few hours. The underlayment is rolled out and taped down first, and then the laminate is locked over it. Thinner laminates cost more to install than thicker - closer to $8 a sq.ft.. Thicker laminates are faster and easier to install and may be less expensive.
Your labor costs are between $800 and $1,600 out of the $1,200 to $2,800 total range to install 200 sq.ft., with the remaining costs being taken up by the materials.
Laminate Wood Flooring Installation Cost
Laminate wood-style flooring costs between $6 and $14 a square foot to install. This includes the labor ($4 - $8/sq.ft.) and materials, including the laminate flooring, underlayment, and necessary adhesives or tapes for the underlayment installation. Laminate flooring is generally installed in a floating or click-lock installation. Mid-thickness laminates are usually easier to install and cost less in installation than very thin laminates.
Labor Cost to Install Laminate Flooring on Stairs
Laminate flooring ranges from $40 to $75 per stair for installation. This includes the installation on the riser and tread and assumes a normal-sized staircase no wider than 36 inches. If you have extremely wide stairs or a winding staircase, your costs per step could be higher. The costs involved are higher per square foot than laying laminate on the floor, mostly because laminate cannot be floated on the stairs. It must be nailed or glued down. This, plus the many precise cuts needed and installing the rounded bullnose on the front, makes up the labor costs.
Cost Factors to Install Laminate Flooring
Like any material, many factors impact the final costs. The first is the laminate type and thickness. Thinner laminates are generally less expensive to purchase but require a thicker and more expensive underlayment. They are also more difficult and time-consuming to install, resulting in higher installation costs.
The laminate style you choose can impact the material's cost. "Designer" laminates and laminates made to look like stone or handscraped wood have higher costs than plainer laminates. Thicker laminates cost more to purchase, but mid-weight laminates cost the least to install.
If the room where you are installing the laminate has many angles or needs many cuts to fit the edges, you have higher labor costs. Installing the laminate on stairs can also have higher costs.
Finally, your location can impact the cost. Installation costs tend to be higher in big cities and coasts than in rural or inland areas.
Laminate Flooring Installation Prices by Company
Unless you plan to install the material yourself, you have many choices for choosing your material and who installs it. You can purchase the material and choose your installer. You can go to an installation specialist, such as Empire, who sells to you and installs the material. You can also go to big-box stores, such as Lowe's or Home Depot, which sell you material and contract with a third party to install it. Not all these choices give you the same results. Brands can be limited in some cases, while if you go with a third-party installer, you are not necessarily choosing the installer.
Each scenario can also lead to a range of final costs. There can be overlap, depending on the material.
| Company | Average Costs per Square Foot (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Home Depot | $4 - $11 |
| Quick-Step | $4 - $11 |
| Lowe's | $5 - $10 |
| Empire Today | $5 - $12 |
| Armstrong | $5 - $12 |
| Mohawk | $6 - $12 |
| Pergo | $6 - $12 |
Home Depot Laminate Installation Cost
The cost of purchasing and installing laminate from Home Depot ranges from $4 to $11 a square foot. Home Depot carries a wide range of laminate floors. They range from 6 mm to 12 mm in thickness. They also carry a full range of underlayments. If you purchase flooring through Home Depot, you can opt for installation through them. They set it up and give you a separate installation quote.
Quick-Step Laminate Flooring Prices
The cost of Quick-Step laminate flooring installed is between $4 and $11 a square foot. Quick-Step manufactures several types, sizes, and styles of laminate floors. They specialize in wood-look laminate. You can purchase their laminate flooring from a range of places and can contract through one of these places to install it. The total costs are dependent on the installer and the flooring type. They have a wide range of flooring options, with an equally large range of costs.
Lowe's Laminate Flooring Installation Cost
The cost of purchasing and having laminate installed from Lowe's ranges from $5 to $10 a square foot. Lowe's carries a wide range of laminate floors. They vary in brand, style, type, appearance, and thickness. They also carry a wide range of underlayments, which vary in thickness and cost. If you purchase your laminate flooring from Lowe's, you can choose to have them install it. In this case, they give you a separate quote for installation.
Empire Today Laminate Flooring Prices
The cost of purchasing and installing laminate from Empire Today ranges from $5 to $12 a square foot. Empire Today carries a wide range of flooring types, including laminate. They offer many laminate sizes, styles, types, and thicknesses. They also install the brands and materials they sell. In this case, you choose a floor and measure it. You are quoted one price for the material and installation.
Armstrong Laminate Flooring Prices
The cost of installing Armstrong laminate costs $5 to $12 a square foot. Armstrong is a manufacturer of many laminate floors. They have a line of waterproof flooring that can make their laminates more durable than others. Armstrong flooring is available at a range of vendors. Some sell and install, while others only sell. You can choose to have your Armstrong flooring put in by the installer of your choice.
Mohawk Laminate Flooring Prices
The cost of having Mohawk laminate installed ranges from $6 to $12 a square foot. Mohawk manufactures several laminate floors. They have a range of high-quality laminates to choose from. They also have many styles and thicknesses. Mohawk is available from a wide range of vendors. Some sell and install, while others only sell.
Cost to Install Pergo Flooring
The cost to have Pergo installed is between $6 and $12 a square foot. Pergo is the manufacturer of a wide range of laminate flooring products. Pergo is one of the best-known names in laminate and pioneered many flooring techniques. Their laminates are sold by a wide range of dealers. Some install, while others only sell. The Pergo type you install directly impacts your project costs.
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Laminate Flooring Prices by Feature
Laminate flooring comes with a range of desirable features. Some laminate floorings are scratch-resistant, making them longer-lasting and less likely to degrade. Other forms are water-resistant, noise-resistant, approved for underfloor warming, or installable over a cork underlayment:
| Laminate Flooring Feature | Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Approved for Underfloor Warming | $0.99 - $4.99 |
| Scratch-Resistant | $0.99 - $4.99 |
| Approved for Cork Underlayment | $0.99 - $4.99 |
| Does Not Need to Be Waxed or Polished | $0.99 - $5.99 |
| Noise-Resistant | $1.40 - $5.60 |
| Water-Resistant | $1.70 - $5.80 |
| Fitted with Underlayment | $1.90 - $5.90 |
Approved for Underfloor Warming
The cost of having underfloor warming-approved laminate is between $0.99 and $4.99 a square foot. Nearly all laminate types are approved for underfloor warming. It is extremely common to install laminate over in-floor heating 4 systems. Laminate does not shrink and handles heat well. The underlayment you use determines how well the flooring is insulated. The thicker the underlayment, the better insulated the floor is.
Scratch-Resistant Laminate Flooring
The cost of scratch-resistant laminate ranges from $0.99 to $4.99 a square foot. Many types of laminate are scratch-resistant. This usually means the surface has been given a long-wearing topcoat. This helps it resist most scuffs and scratches. However, it is still not recommended to drag heavy furniture across the floor. This, and using the laminate in high-traffic areas where sand and grit may be tracked, can result in some scratches.
Approved for Cork Underlayment
The cost of laminate that has been approved for cork underlayment is between $0.99 and $4.99. There are many types of underlayment you can use with your laminate. Cork is a favorite because it is resilient and works with a wide range of thicknesses. Cork is also naturally water-resistant. This helps keep moisture beneath your floor to a minimum without the extra thickness. Most laminate types can be used with cork, except the very thinnest types.
No Need to Be Waxed or Polished
The cost of laminate that never has to be waxed or polished averages $0.99 to $5.99 a square foot. This is one of the many benefits of using laminate over another material. Laminate does not need a homeowner-applied topcoat or surface. The material's surface is designed to be long-wearing. Matte or semi-matte surfaces cannot be polished. If you choose a polished surface, it is designed to hold that polish without requiring you to wax or polish it yourself.
Noise-Resistant Laminate Flooring
The cost of noise-resistant laminate is between $1.40 and $5.60 a square foot. Noise-resistant laminate is generally thicker than average. 10 mm and 12 mm laminate is usually less noisy than thinner laminates. You can increase the noise resistance of any laminate with a thicker underlayment. Combining a thicker laminate with a thicker underlayment can give you the best results. No laminate is completely noiseless, but using a thicker material can reduce the noise.
Water-Resistant Laminate Flooring
Water-resistant laminate costs between $1.70 and $5.80 a square foot. Water-resistant laminate helps prevent swelling and warping that happens when laminate comes in contact with water or moisture. This type gives you time to mop up spills. It is not designed for use in very wet areas. While it is water-resistant, it is not waterproof. This means that prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage.
Laminate Flooring with Underlayment
The cost of laminate flooring with underlayment ranges from $1.90 to $5.90 a square foot. The vast majority of laminate flooring needs a separate underlayment. Some types come with an underlayment already attached. You have fewer choices with this type than if you use a separate underlayment. Installation is usually more difficult with this material. Adding the underlayment to the laminate makes the flooring thicker. This means it is harder to cut and float, so most installers prefer a separate underlayment.
Laminate Flooring Molding and Trim
Molding and trim can add the finishing touches to your laminate flooring. They are not necessary for most installations. However, there may be times when you need trim or a threshold to complete the project. In those cases, use a laminate trim or molding for a cohesive look:
| Trim | Average Costs per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Quarter Round | $0.99 - $2.99 |
| Threshold | $3.25 - $6.99 |
| T-Molding | $3.49 - $5.99 |
| Flush Stair Nose | $4.49 - $6.49 |
| Step Nose | $4.95 - $9.99 |
Quarter Round Molding
Quarter round moldings cost between $0.99 and $2.99 a linear foot. Laminate flooring is designed to run up to, but not touch, the walls of the room. There is a gap around the perimeter of the room. If you have baseboards, they cover this space. If you do not have baseboards, a quarter-round molding fills the space where the floor meets the wall. This is a thin molding that fills the gap and completes the appearance.
Threshold
Thresholds cost between $3.25 and $6.99 a linear foot. Thresholds are the transition between two rooms or from one flooring type to another. They help transition between two floors. They can be made of any material, but it is common to have your threshold match at least one flooring material. They can be laminate and have the same color, finish, and texture as the floor. They come in many shapes and profiles.
T-Molding
T-molding ranges from $3.49 to $5.99 a linear foot. A T-molding is used in the doorway between two floors of similar thickness. Most commonly, you use a laminate T-molding if two floors of laminate meet in a doorway. The molding is shaped like the letter T. The upper portion covers the ends of the two sides of the floor, which connect underneath either side of the vertical piece. The threshold is raised slightly above the floor.
Flush Stair Nose
The cost of a flush stair nose is between $4.49 and $6.49 a linear foot. This is a rounded piece you use to finish a landing, step-down, or stair tread. The piece has a rounded "bullnose" finish on one side that is thicker than the rest of the laminate. It starts out flush with the rest of the floor and rounds down the step or stair's edge. It is necessary to give you a finished appearance on a stair or step. Without it, you would see the unfinished edge at the start of a tread.
Step Nose
The cost of a step nose ranges from $4.95 to $9.99 a linear foot. This is the curved finish piece that starts the top stair or a landing. If you have laminate flooring on an upper level and extend it to the stairs, you need a step nose on the top step. This is true whether you use laminate down or transition to another material at the first riser. A step nose is wider and larger than a flush stair nose. It is meant to have a thicker profile and provide a prominently finished look.
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Cost to Remove Carpet and Install Laminate Flooring
The cost to remove carpeting before installation is around $0.11 to $0.22 a square foot, plus disposal fees of around $50 to $100. This includes the installation costs of the new laminate between $6 and $14 a square foot, making the total costs between $6.11 and $14.22 plus disposal fees. If your installer finds the subfloor needs repair or other work must be done when removing the old carpeting, your costs can be higher.
Laminate Flooring vs Hardwood Cost
Laminate is frequently seen as a less expensive alternative to hardwood flooring. Hardwood costs between $14 and $32 a square foot installed, making it more expensive than laminate. Laminate is faster and easier to install and has lower costs for the material. This includes the underlayment, which is not often necessary for a hardwood installation.
Like laminate, there are many hardwoods. Some, like prefinished engineered hardwood, are less expensive to install than others. This accounts for some of the larger cost range for hardwood. Laminate can also be installed DIY if you desire, while hardwood must be installed professionally for the best results.
Laminate Flooring vs Carpet Cost
Another popular material to consider for your floors is carpet. Carpet costs around $7 to $12 per sq.ft. installed, making it comparable with laminate. However, while laminate can be installed DIY, carpet requires professional installation.
Like laminate, there are many types of carpeting and carpet underlayments to choose from. This affects the project's overall cost and helps determine your final costs. Choosing a natural material like wood and using a thicker carpet pad means a much more expensive installation. However, you can use a thinner synthetic carpet for less.
When choosing between materials, consider longevity and maintenance. In general, laminate is easier to maintain and longer-lasting than carpeting.
Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring
As with all flooring, there are pros and cons to laminate. Depending on your lifestyle, living situation, and personal preferences, laminate may be the ideal solution for your home's floors.
Laminate is very affordable, cheaper than genuine hardwood floors. It is also widely available, easily accessible, and comes in a range of looks and finishes. However, it is not as durable as hardwood, lasting about 30 years, and is also more vulnerable to scratches and tears. It can also be regarded as less attractive than real hardwood because of its synthetic nature, so it does not improve resale value.
Cost to Remove Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring can be installed over the existing floor, which can save time and hassle. However, this can lead to a non-level floor in the future. Many homeowners feel that removing or replacing subflooring is beyond their skill level and hire a carpenter to lay a new subfloor or remove the old. The average carpenter charges around $70 per hour, and it should take no more than a day. It is a good idea to remove the old flooring before they arrive to install the new flooring. The approximate cost of removing a 200 sq.ft. floor is $400.
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Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Baseboards
If you already have baseboards present in the room where you are installing laminate flooring, you have two options: remove the baseboards and reuse/replace them after installation or leave the baseboards in and install a quarter round to cover the gap. The cost of baseboard materials is reasonable, ranging from about $0.70 per sq.ft. for basic styles to $1.50 per sq.ft. for premium styles. You can hire a carpenter for this job at around $70 per hour.
Radiant Floor
When installing laminate flooring, look into enhancing the floors with radiant heating. Radiant floor heating cannot be installed on existing flooring, so it is a good time to look into this improvement. Radiant floor heating system installations are typically expensive and require a professional to install. The average cost for installing radiant floor heating in an average-size home ranges from $20,000 to $35,000, depending on the time it takes to complete. Most of the installation cost for radiant floor heating is labor. Materials cost around $1.50 to $2 per square foot, plus labor costs of $10 to $12 per square foot.
Additional Considerations and Cost
- To keep refinishing costs down, remove the old carpeting and other flooring covering your subfloors before you hire a professional to refinish your floors. Carpeting, pads, and sheet flooring can be removed easily, while tile is more labor-intensive.
- You can use glue on laminate flooring. It is a good idea to use glue in high foot traffic areas and where spills of liquid are likely. Glue can strengthen the floor's installation and make it more water-resistant.
- Hire a licensed and insured professional to ensure it is completed properly.
- Purchase 5-15% more flooring and underlayment than needed. Be prepared in case a piece is damaged, or you need extra.
- It is important to get at least three written estimates for the work. This allows you to compare installers.
- Ensure that the subfloor is perfectly level because laminate is not attached to the subfloor. Read up on the manufacturer's specifications for the variation. Generally, accepted numbers are 1/4" to 3/16" range over 10".
- Having a laminate floor installed over an old/poor subfloor can cause noise and flooring issues.
- To make the room look larger, install the planks parallel to the main view.
- 2-4 days before installation, let the flooring acclimate to the room.
- You cannot stain or finish laminate floors.
- You have a smaller resale value with laminate flooring than real wood flooring.
- Do not install laminate flooring in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or a sauna. Laminate floors contract and expand with fluctuating humidity and expand and push against each other, resulting in floor ridges and bulges.
- Laminate has a warranty of 30 years or more with the proper treatment and a little maintenance.
FAQs
- Is it easy to install a laminate floor?
Installing a laminate floor can be very easy if the directions are followed properly. Most DIY workers complete the entire floor in a day.
- How do you install snap together laminate flooring?
To install the tiles, remove the tongue from the first piece. That side faces the wall. Place the tongue of the second plank into the groove of the first, starting an angle. When the tongue fits into the groove, press down until it snaps in place. Continue this in rows. *Leave a ¼" gap at the edges of the room to allow for floor expansion.
- How much does it cost to install 1,000 square feet of laminate flooring?
Depending on the floor, it can cost between $6,000 and $14,000. This includes all material and labor costs.
- How long does it take a professional to lay laminate flooring?
It depends on the material and room size, but usually a few hours to a day.
- How soon can you walk on laminate flooring?
It can be walked on as soon as the floor is installed.
- When can you put furniture on laminate flooring?
You can place your furniture as soon as the flooring is fully installed.
- Can you put heavy furniture on laminate flooring?
You can, but the thinner the laminate, the more likely it dents. Thicker laminates can handle heavier furniture better.
- Can area rugs ruin laminate floors?
No, area rugs can protect your laminate from scratches, spills, and other surface damage.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.
See full cheat sheet.
1 Subfloor: The bottom-most layer of a floor, supported by joists, over which finished flooring material is laid
2 Joints: A fold, line, or groove where two pieces of material join together
3 Underlayment: Roofing material laid underneath roofing tiles to seal the roof, preventing leaks
4 In-floor heating: A heating system using tubes or electric wires installed underneath the flooring
How Much Does Laminate Flooring Cost to Install
Source: https://www.fixr.com/costs/install-laminate-flooring