How Much Does Laminate Flooring Cost?

Laminate flooring is a popular choice. You can achieve the look of hardwood, stone or tile with this synthetic flooring option at a fraction of the cost, making it a good option for budget-conscious homeowners. When setting your budget, note that a laminate flooring installation project costs $25 per square metre.

While laminate flooring is renowned for its cost-effectiveness, understanding the expenses involved in its installation is crucial for homeowners planning their renovation budgets. In this blog post, we’ll explore laminate flooring costs in Australian homes and provide insights into the price range, factors influencing the overall expense, and everything in between.

Installation costs for laminate flooring options differ slightly across the country. Here is an overview:

City	Laminate Flooring Installation Cost
Sydney	$25 – $80 per m²
Melbourne	$20 – $80 per m²
Brisbane	$25 – $80 per m²
Canberra	$20 – $80 per m²
Perth	$20 – $80 per m²
Darwin	$20 – $80 per m²
Hobart	$20 – $80 per m²
Adelaide	$20 – $80 per m²

Laminate flooring prices in Australia can vary depending on your location. In metropolitan cities like Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, prices typically range from $20 to $80 per square metre, due to a higher cost of living and labour. Laminate flooring prices in other capital cities, however, prices may be lower. 

Material availability, local labour costs, and demand can influence these prices. Homeowners must consider their location when budgeting for laminate flooring installation.

Laminate type

Flooring material like wood, stone, or tile can be designed, laminated and cut into planks for a great look. Wood laminate flooring cost per m2 can range from $25 to $80, and the installation cost of engineered timber flooring is $30 to $40 per square metre.

Hardwood flooring has different quality levels, and $40 to $100 per square metre is the average price for good to high-quality laminate wood flooring. Waterproof laminate floorboards will be more expensive because the process involves adding water-resistant sealant on the top layer for damp areas with standing water. Some companies advertise waterproof laminate flooring but recommend that spills be cleaned up quickly.

Finally, Parador laminate flooring is a high-quality product with unique design features such as textured finishes, which can contribute to a higher material cost. Parador laminate floors often require specialised installation techniques, like intricate cutting and fitting around corners and edges, resulting in additional labour costs. Expect to pay $30 to $60 per square metre.

Laminate texture

Texture refers to how the material feels under your feet. Laminate flooring with a satin finish will feel smooth and is easy to maintain. There will be no rough texture under your feet. Hand-scraped or traditional laminate wood flooring or planks have a realistic look and a slightly rough feel.

Project size

The amount of floor space will impact the cost to lay laminate flooring. If more than one room has the same laminate flooring installed, things like door frames and uneven edges will be taken into account. A higher price per square metre can be estimated due to extra measuring, cutting and fitting.

Design complexity

Some laminate floors have impressive designs, such as in a foyer. An installer with artistic abilities must design and create such a design. Expect to pay more than $100 per square metre for such specialties.

Removing existing flooring to add new laminate can result in more fees. The cost to remove laminate flooring will depend on the time it takes. You should expect an installer to take 1 to 3 days for this job. The laminate flooring labour cost will then be based on the complexity of the project and any design work required. Expect to pay $75 per square metre to remove and replace laminate flooring.

While the cost of laminate flooring installation may seem relatively consistent across different providers, homeowners should know that not all installers are the same skill-wise. Even though the price may be similar, the quality of workmanship, attention to detail, and overall professionalism can vary significantly from one installer to another. 

Therefore, if homeowners hire a professional installer instead of doing it themselves, it’s crucial to research and select a reputable and experienced installer.

Check for their licensing and qualifications

Before you settle with an installer, ask about their licence and qualifications. A good option is one with the relevant certifications or training needed for laminate flooring installation. This means they can complete the job with the highest standards possible.

Ask for their portfolio or past works

Asking for a portfolio of past work, complete with pictures, allows you to assess the quality of the installer’s craftsmanship and the range of projects they’ve undertaken. This gives you confidence in their abilities and helps you visualise how your own project will turn out.

Clarify what’s included in the quote

Once you’ve secured your installer, it’s important to ask them whether the removal of existing flooring materials is included in the installation quote. Some installers may charge extra for this service, so confirming upfront can prevent unexpected costs down the line.

Provide detailed and accurate room measurements

Give your installer accurate room measurements they’ll be working with, and also provide information unique to your home. For example, mention any structural defects or irregularities so your installer can plan accordingly and provide a more accurate laminate floor quote. Doing this at the beginning can also reduce the chance of surprises throughout the project. 

Understand the industry pricing structure

Inquire about how the pricing is calculated—whether it’s based on an hourly rate or per square metre. Understanding the pricing structure allows you to compare quotes more effectively and ensures transparency in the billing process.

Confirm debris disposal

Enquire whether debris disposal, such as removing old flooring and packaging, is included in the laminate flooring installation cost. Some installers offer this service, while others may charge extra. Knowing if the installer handles debris removal can save you the hassle of organising disposal yourself.

Verify their liability insurance

Check if your laminate installer has liability insurance to protect both parties in case of accidents or damages during installation. Ensuring that the installer is adequately insured mitigates the risk of financial liabilities and potential legal complications.

 

Laminate flooring, your budget-friendly option

Laminate flooring is an affordable and practical way to transform the look and feel of any space. With its wide range of styles and designs, including realistic wood, stone and tile patterns, laminate offers versatility without compromising quality.

However, when considering laminate flooring, it is crucial to assess your budget, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. Seeking professional flooring installers for accurate cost estimates and installation advice ensures a seamless transition to beautiful, budget-friendly floors that perfectly complement your home.

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

How much does laminate flooring cost with 1,000 sq ft of space?

In Australia, the cost of laminating 1,000 square feet of flooring can vary based on factors such as quality, brand and installation costs. Material prices can range from $30 to up to $250 per square metre and installation costs can vary considerably. 

What is the downside to laminate flooring?

While laminate flooring presents a cost-effective and versatile option for homeowners, it has some drawbacks. Its susceptibility to moisture damage, limited repair options, the potential for hollow sound underfoot, and lack of environmental friendliness due to VOC emissions may deter some buyers. 

Additionally, its shorter lifespan than hardwood or tile flooring may require more frequent replacement.

Can I lay laminate over floorboards?

Yes, you can lay laminate flooring over floorboards, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure the floorboards are in good condition, flat and level. Any imperfections or damage to the floorboards can impact the stability and appearance of the laminate flooring.

Secondly, it’s recommended that a moisture barrier or underlayment be installed between the laminate floorboards and the flooring. This helps prevent moisture from the subfloor from reaching the laminate planks, which can cause damage over time.