How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost?

There are dozens of species of timber that end up as hardwood flooring. The types of wood flooring can range from $20 to $150 per square metre. The cost of the timber flooring installation in Australia on an average is $30 per square metre. 

Costs in Australia:

The location has a bearing on the cost of hardwood flooring in Australia. The availability and demand of the market can also bring the price of hardwood flooring cost per square metre higher or lower.

Hardwood flooring has several determining factors that make up the cost. It is not easy to compare hardwood timber flooring prices without looking at the whole picture.

Type of hardwood:

The type of hardwood you use affects how much it will cost to install a floor. Hardwood can be waterproof or nonwaterproof, and each type has different prices. Knowing what you want can help you save money on your flooring project.

Old Flooring Removal

When getting hardwood flooring installed, another cost factor to consider is taking out the old flooring. You need to use a special tool called a floorboard remover if you have wood or cork floors. Removing them can take much time and effort.

Professional Installation:

The cost of timber flooring installation may seem higher than the national average. Still, an installer that is in high demand due to his precision work can increase your home’s value.

Solid hardwood flooring, such as oak, Blackbutt or spotted gum, is priced according to species and the grade of the wood. Timber with few or no defects will cost more than timber with knotholes and scars. For example, a low-grade timber can be purchased for $50 per square metre while timber that has no deformities can cost $150 per square metre. 

• $60 per square metre for Blackbutt
• $70 per square metre for Jarrah
• $90 per square metre for Ironbark
• $100 per square metre for Bamboo
• $150 per square metre for parquetry

Blackbutt timber flooring cost is the least expensive because it is readily available in all parts of Australia. 

Engineered hardwood flooring, such as cork and laminate is less expensive than hardwood flooring because it is made from multiple layers of plywood to make the surface sustainable. However, it is remarkably durable and more resistant to moisture than solid timber flooring. Engineered wood flooring cost runs $65 – $120 per square metre. 

Many people select hardwood flooring even though it can be more costly than linoleum or engineered flooring. It is warm and inviting, increases the appraised value and is environmentally friendly. The price of timber flooring per square metre fluctuates depending on the grade of the wood.

Structural timber floors:

• Lowest grade: $40/m2
• Mid-grade: $50 – $70/m2
• Highest grade: $60-$100/m2

Floating timber floors:

• Material only: $35 – $100/m2
• Installation: $30 – $50/m2

Parquetry flooring:

• Lowest grade: $45/m2
• Mid-grade: $50 – $85/m2
• Highest grade: $100 – $150/m2

Hardwood timber floorboards:

• Blackbutt: $60 per m2
• Ironbark: $80 per m2
• Jarrah: $70 per m2

Hiring a hardwood flooring installer can be a challenge. Every installer will say that they are experienced and have the most reasonably priced. However, it is up to you to interview at least three companies for comparison. A lot of knowledge can be learned about the type of service that each one represents.

How to Create an Accurate Estimate:

A skilled hardwood flooring installer will come to your home to take measurements. Never accept a quotation without a visit to your home. Also, find out what is included in the estimate.

• How will baseboards be handled for a professional look?
• Will sawdust be contained or will cutting be done outside?
• What type of supplies will be used, like glue, nails, staples?
• How many crew members will be on the job?
• Pin down a timeline and get a guarantee that it will be followed.

Sit down with your potential installer and go over the figures. If there is any part that does not make sense, ask him to please explain. You may find that the cost is over what you were expecting. Ask for recommendations on different flooring materials or skipping a room for now. A skilled installer will have the experience to provide answers.

Licencing and Qualifications:

Your potential installer may come with a portfolio to show you past jobs. He will want to make an impression on you. Do not let the beautiful pictures take away from the task at hand. Ask to see:

• Liability insurance
• Licensing in your state
• Membership to construction organizations
• Letters of referral from past clients

Although an installer doesn’t need to be a member of an organization, like the Australian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA), it shows that he cares about what is new in the industry and what changes have been made. 

How to Save Money Hiring a Hardwood Flooring Installer:

1. Be wary of a quote that seems too good to be true. You could end up paying another company to do the job right. 
2. Listen to the advice of the installer regarding suggestions on materials. He may know which hardwood flooring company carries the best products and delivers on their warranties.
3. Make arrangements for the kids to be out of the house while the work is being performed. This job requires skill and concentration.
4. Keep an area in an adjoining room clear as a work area.

What are the benefits of hardwood flooring?

Hardwood floors have many good qualities. Besides looking elegant yet charming, they are easy to maintain and match any decor. Hardwood flooring adds value to a home by being long-lasting and providing better air quality. Your home looks and smells fresh when part of nature is used.

How do you hide nails on hardwood floors?

You can use a wood filler to hide nails on hardwood floors. Clean the area, apply the filler with a putty knife, and smooth it until it is levelled with the surface. You can then stain or finish the wood to match the rest of the floor. Alternatively, if you can access the underside of the floorboards, use a nail gun or screws to secure the boards without leaving visible nail holes.

How do you install underlay on hardwood floors?

Installing underlay on hardwood floors involves the following steps. First, remove any debris from the subfloor to ensure a clean surface. Next, roll out the underlay foam pad over the entire floor, leaving a small gap of around 1/4 inch between the edge of the pad and the walls. Secure the pad to the subfloor using adhesive tape to keep it from shifting. Once the pad is in place, you can install the hardwood floor over the top, using nails or flooring adhesive to secure the boards.

How is the spacing of hardwood floor bearers determined?

The spacing of hardwood floor bearers, also known as joists, is determined by the thickness of the material used, the dimensions of the bearers, and the expected load-bearing capacity of the floor. Generally, the spacing of the bearers should not exceed 16 inches (406 mm) for solid wood boards or 19.2 inches (488 mm) for engineered wood boards. This provides adequate support for the floor and helps prevent sagging or warping over time.

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources