If you’re thinking of upgrading your home with hardwood flooring, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is: how much cost to install hardwood floor? The answer depends on a mix of factors—from the type of wood you choose to the labour cost in your region. This guide will walk you through everything, including a cost breakdown by type and installation method, so you can make an informed decision before you commit.
Average Cost to Install Hardwood Flooring
The average cost to install hardwood flooring in the UK typically ranges from £50 to £110 per square metre, including both materials and labour. This can vary based on the type of wood (solid vs engineered), the size of your space, and the complexity of the installation.
For example, solid hardwood flooring installation cost is often higher due to the intensive work involved, while engineered hardwood flooring installation cost tends to be more budget-friendly and quicker to install.
Cost per Square Foot or Metre: What to Expect
If you’re measuring in square footage, the hardwood floor installation cost per square foot generally falls between £4 and £10 for materials and £5 to £12 for labour. In total, you could be spending £9 to £22 per square foot, depending on your choices.
Tools like a flooring installation cost calculator can help you estimate based on your room size, the type of wood, and your location.
Material Costs: What’s Included?
Let’s talk about flooring materials. Prices vary significantly depending on the wood species, finish, and board thickness.
Common options include:
- Oak – Durable and popular; costs around £30–£60/m²
- Maple – Slightly harder than oak; £35–£65/m²
- Walnut – Rich colour; ranges from £45–£90/m²
- Bamboo (technically a grass) – Eco-friendly and starts at £25/m²
- Engineered wood – Often £20–£50/m²
Keep in mind the cost of hardwood flooring materials is just the start. You’ll also need underlayment, adhesives, or moisture barriers, especially for areas prone to dampness.
Installation Labour Costs
The labour cost for hardwood floor installation depends on how the floor is laid and the region you’re in. On average, professional installers charge £15–£35 per square metre. In London and other major cities, regional labour rates can push this figure even higher.
The installation method also matters. Nail-down or glue-down installations (common with solid hardwood flooring) require more time and skill, adding to the cost. In contrast, click-lock systems used with engineered flooring are easier and quicker, saving you money.
Subfloor Preparation and Additional Charges
Before any planks go down, your floor needs to be prepared. This includes subfloor preparation, which may involve levelling, cleaning, or even removing your existing floor. The cost to remove old flooring can range from £10 to £20 per square metre, depending on the type and how it’s fixed.
If the subfloor needs extensive repairs or the area requires a moisture barrier, that’s another added expense. Be sure to factor these into your hardwood flooring price guide.
Solid vs Engineered: Cost Differences
Let’s compare:
- Solid wood flooring: More expensive to buy and install, but can be sanded and refinished multiple times. It’s best for ground-level or above-grade rooms.
- Engineered hardwood: Made with layers, it’s more stable and moisture-resistant. Ideal for basements or kitchens, and generally cheaper to install.
Engineered hardwood flooring installation cost is lower due to the ease of laying planks, especially with floating or lock-in designs.
Finishing Options and Their Costs
Don’t forget about the finishing options. Pre-finished wood saves you the cost and mess of onsite staining. However, if you go for unfinished planks, expect to pay extra for sanding, staining, and sealing—up to £10–£20/m² more.
Other Cost Influencers
Every home is different, and several other elements will impact how much you’ll pay overall:
- Project complexity – Rooms with lots of angles, radiators, or stairs increase installation time
- Square footage – Larger projects usually come with volume discounts
- Flooring waste factor – Always order around 10% extra material to account for cuts and mistakes
- DIY vs professional installation – Going DIY can save labour costs, but any mistake might lead to bigger expenses later
Hiring a flooring contractor may seem pricey, but professionals bring tools, experience, and warranties to the table.
Cost Breakdown Example
Here’s a typical example for a 20m² room with mid-range engineered oak flooring:
- Materials (engineered oak @ £40/m²) = £800
- Underlayment and barrier = £120
- Labour (install @ £25/m²) = £500
- Subfloor preparation and old floor removal = £300
- Total estimate = £1,720 or £86/m²
You can plug your numbers into a hardwood flooring installation cost estimator to tailor this to your situation.
Cost to Install Hardwood Floors in the UK
Across the UK, prices vary slightly depending on where you live:
- London: £85–£110/m²
- South East: £70–£100/m²
- Midlands & North: £60–£90/m²
- Scotland & Wales: £55–£85/m²
Use a flooring installation cost calculator with regional filters for more accuracy.
Tips to Keep Costs in Check
- Buy in bulk to get better deals on materials
- Remove old flooring yourself to reduce labour charges
- Compare quotes from at least 3 different flooring contractors
- Choose pre-finished wood to cut finishing costs
- Stick to common wood species like oak or maple for better pricing
Final Thoughts
Figuring out how much cost to install hardwood floor involves more than a simple number—it’s about understanding the many layers that go into the project. From selecting the right wood species and flooring materials to calculating labour costs and managing project complexity, there’s plenty to consider.
That said, hardwood floors are an investment. They increase property value, last for decades with proper care, and bring timeless beauty to any space. Whether you choose solid or engineered, DIY or hire a flooring contractor, understanding the installation method, materials, and prep work can help you plan your budget realistically and avoid any surprises.
