As you know, engineered hardwood floors are made from a core layer, usually fibreboard or plywood. A thin natural hardwood layer follows this core. Typically, this combination delivers a unique flooring that adds much-needed warmth and style to any space.
Typically, the average cost to install engineered hardwood floors is $4,500. However, expenses for the overall project can fall between $2,500 to $6,800. Additionally, there are some other factors to consider that will affect the cost of engineered hardwood flooring.
Average Labour Cost for Installing Engineered Hardwood Flooring
It’s important to consider labour costs before buying materials for your engineered hardwood installation project. You’ll need to know how much labour installing the engineered hardwood floor will require. Typically, the larger the space, the higher the labour costs you can expect to pay.
We advise you to budget about 50% of your total project cost for labour. This recommendation averages $950- $1,600 for potential labour costs.
Additionally, specific special requirements may also alter labour costs. For example, you may need to rent equipment and supplies, adding 5-10% to the overall cost.
Hence, before you install an engineered hardwood floor in your home, consult with various professionals. Get a feel of their labour costs before making a final decision.
Cost of Engineered Hardwood Flooring by Square Foot
The average cost of engineered hardwood floors per square foot is $3. However, the price can hover between $2.50 and $3.50.
Below is a table highlighting the cost of installing engineered hardwood at various square feet. We’ll also note the lowest and highest price points.
| Square Feet | Average Cost ($) | Lowest Cost ($) | Highest Cost ($) |
| 100 | 300 | 260 | 350 |
| 200 | 615 | 525 | 695 |
| 300 | 915 | 790 | 1,045 |
| 400 | 1,225 | 1,055 | 1,390 |
| 500 | 1,530 | 1,320 | 1,735 |
| 600 | 1,850 | 1,530 | 2,090 |
Wastage Cost
When pricing materials for engineered hardwood floor installation, account for 15% more materials. Accounting for extra materials is key due to possible wastage during the installation.
Firstly, when you buy flooring materials in bulk, some are bound to be flawed. However, the rate of defection is higher with natural wood. Hence, you’ll experience fewer defective items with engineered hardwood.
The flooring area won’t always fit with the hardwood floorboards. Therefore, the installer will have to cut off some hardwood parts to fit irregular corners. Cutting and chopping of this nature also fosters wastage.
Engineered Hardwood Installation Cost by Grade
The higher your engineered hardwood floor’s grade, the more expensive it will be. Higher grades offer better durability and resistance over time, but they cost more.
Low Grade Engineered Hardwood Floor
The average cost of low-grade engineered hardwood floors is $3 to $10 per square foot. However, despite its grade, low-grade engineered hardwood will still offer you greater durability than most flooring options within the same price range.
Low-grade engineered hardwood floors possess only three core layers. The thickness of the veneer on the surface is 1.5mm to 2.1mm.
Middle Grade Engineered Hardwood Floor
When you buy engineered hardwood flooring of the middle grade, you get higher durability. The mid-grade wood is best for areas of your property that experience occasional foot traffic.
Expect to pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for mid-grade engineered floors. The average mid-grade engineered hardwood floor comes with five core layers. Furthermore, the veneer’s thickness ranges from 2.1mm and 3.1mm.
High Grade Engineered Hardwood Floor
High-grade engineered hardwood floors cost between $9 to $16. The huge upfront cost is worth it as they’re highly durable and long-lasting. These qualities make high grade engineered hardwood suitable for spaces that see frequent foot traffic.
High-grade engineered hardwood planks have seven core layers and a veneer thickness of at least 4.2mm. Hence, you can be confident your new engineered hardwood won’t deform easily over the years.
Related Article: How Much Does Hardwood Floor Installation Cost in Toronto?
Cost of Engineered Hardwood Flooring by Material
When you install engineered hardwood floors, the top layer is the area visible to the public. Unfortunately, the top layer also shows the first signs of wear. Therefore, you need a strong material for your engineered hardwood that will withstand pressure and preserve its look.
The top layer or veneer can come from different types of tree wood. Each wood has pros and cons, and its prices vary depending on its durability.
Longleaf Pine
This outer engineered hardwood layer has a Janka rating of 1225 and costs $2 to $5 per square foot. Longleaf pine has a distinct look that blends well with dark finishes. It’s also durable and thick, offering medium-range protection against abrasion.
Tigerwood
This engineered hardwood is deemed exotic hardwood but is also one of the toughest on the market. The pricing for this engineered hardwood floor installation sits between $5 to $9.
An external Tigerwood layer on engineered hardwood makes the flooring incredibly resistant to deformation and is best suited for high-traffic areas in your home. It also offers a distinct red hue that livens up your décor.
Acacia
This near impenetrable hardwood has a Janka rating of 2220 and costs between $6 to $10 per square foot. Acacia also features a wax coat protecting the wood against pests and water. Hence, perfectly installed engineered hardwood with an acacia layer wouldn’t warp in the presence of moisture.
Related Article: What is the Difference Between Engineered and Solid Wood Flooring?
Final Thoughts
The average cost to install engineered hardwood floors is $4,500. But, project pricing may increase depending on the grade, wastage, and your flooring’s outer layer.
It’s important to note you can save some money via DIY installation after you buy the engineered hardwood flooring. You can save over $800 alone on DIY installation. However, the procedure can be tedious and tasking. Hence, don’t be shy to seek professional help if you’re having issues.
Here at LV Flooring, we understand how expensive installing engineered hardwood floors can get. That’s why we only deliver high-quality engineered hardwood floors that provide value for money. Look through our online catalogue today!
