Looking to update your Nashville home with timeless hardwood floors? At $4 to $14 per square foot, it’s an investment that pays off in style and value.
We know every plank and penny of hardwood flooring costs. From oak to hickory, DIY to pro installation, we’ll guide you through options that fit your budget.
Stick with us as we unlock the secrets of affordable luxury.
Key Notes
- Solid Hardwood (Professional Installation): $12,000 – $22,000 for 1,000 sq ft
- Engineered Hardwood (Professional Installation): $9,000 – $19,000 for 1,000 sq ft
- DIY Solid Hardwood: $8,500 – $15,500 (includes tools)
- DIY Engineered Hardwood: $6,500 – $13,500 (includes tools)
Average Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Sq Ft
When it comes to hardwood flooring cost per sq ft, you’re looking at a price range that varies depending on the materials, installation method, and who’s doing the heavy lifting.
Typically, in Nashville, hardwood flooring prices range from $4 to $14 per sq ft, covering both solid hardwood and engineered hardwood.
The wide price range is due to factors like the type of wood, installation method, and additional services like floor preparation.
This is what you can expect to pay overall for a 1,000 sq ft hardwood flooring project in Nashville:
Material Costs
| Cost Component | Cost Range (Per Sq Ft) | Total Cost for 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood | $8 - $14 | $8,000 - $14,000 |
| Engineered Hardwood | $6 - $12 | $6,000 - $12,000 |
Labor Costs (Professional Installer)
| Cost Component | Cost Range (Per Sq Ft) | Total Cost for 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood Installation | $4 - $8 | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Engineered Hardwood Installation | $3 - $7 | $3,000 - $7,000 |
Additional Costs
| Cost Component | Cost Range (Per Sq Ft) | Total Cost for 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Subfloor Preparation | $1 - $3 | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Floor Leveling | $2 - $5 | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| Moldings and Trim | $1 - $3 | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Underlayment (if needed) | $0.50 - $2 | $500 - $2,000 |
| Adhesive (for Engineered Hardwood) | $1 - $2 | $1,000 - $2,000 |
DIY Installation Costs
| Cost Component | Cost Range (Per Sq Ft) | Total Cost for 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Tools (Floor Nailer, Saw, etc.) | $300 - $600 | $300 - $600 (one-time cost) |
| Adhesive (DIY Engineered) | $1 - $2 | $1,000 - $2,000 |
Total Estimated Costs
| Cost Component | Cost Range (Per Sq Ft) | Total Cost for 1,000 Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood (Professional) | $12 - $22 per sq ft | $12,000 - $22,000 |
| Engineered Hardwood (Professional) | $9 - $19 per sq ft | $9,000 - $19,000 |
| DIY Solid Hardwood | $8.50 - $15.50 per sq ft | $8,500 - $15,500 |
| DIY Engineered Hardwood | $6.50 - $13.50 per sq ft | $6,500 - $13,500 |
1. Material Costs
Material costs are often the biggest chunk of your overall hardwood flooring bill. The type of wood you choose plays a huge role in your final tally.
Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and has a classic, high-end feel. It’s thicker and more durable, but it costs more upfront.
Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is made of a plywood core topped with a thin hardwood veneer. It’s less expensive but still provides that sleek hardwood look.
Here’s how much they cost:
- Solid hardwood: $8 – $14 per sq ft
- Engineered hardwood: $6 – $12 per sq ft
The species of wood also influences the price. For instance, oak is on the affordable side, while maple and hickory sit at the higher end of the price spectrum.
Here’s a material cost breakdown by wood species:
- Oak: $8 – $12 per sq ft
- Maple: $10 – $14 per sq ft
- Hickory: $12 – $14 per sq ft
2. Labor Cost
Whether you break out a sweat and do it yourself or hire a professional can impact your bottom line significantly. ‘
Let’s talk labor costs:
Professional Installer Rates
Hiring a professional installer in Nashville will typically set you back $4 to $8 per sq ft in labor costs.
This price includes measuring, cutting, and fitting the wood planks together—tasks that sound simple but require expertise.
If your project calls for extra work like subfloor repairs or the installation of moldings, these labor costs can creep up higher.
Floored by the Thought of Using a Nail Gun?
DIY Installation
If you’re feeling brave and considering DIY installation, the good news is that you could potentially save quite a bit.
However, don’t underestimate the time commitment and tool costs.
While you won’t be paying professional installer rates, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing or renting equipment.
- Flooring nailer: $100 – $200
- Moisture meter: $25 – $50
- Floor saw: $150 – $300
- Adhesive (if you’re going with engineered hardwood): $1 – $2 per sq ft
Although DIY installation saves on labor, keep in mind that it takes longer and involves a steeper learning curve. If you’re not on the ball, mistakes can be costly to fix.
3. Floor Preparation Costs
Before you even lay down the first plank of wood, you may need to consider floor preparation costs.
If your subfloor is uneven or needs repairs, you’ll want to budget for that as well.
- Subfloor repair: $1 – $3 per sq ft
If your floor isn’t level, you could face extra charges for smoothing out the surface.
- Leveling costs: $2 – $5 per sq ft.
Skipping this step isn’t an option. A poorly prepared subfloor can lead to problems like creaking, warping, or even buckling wood later down the line.
There’s More to Your Bottom Line
Beyond materials and labor, several factors can push up your final price:
Wood Species
Different wood species come with different price tags. Oak is more affordable, while maple and hickory lean towards the higher end.
All species though need to be acclimatised before installation.
Installation Method
Nail-down vs. glue-down installation affects both the material and labor costs. Glue-down is common for engineered wood and costs more due to the adhesive.
Floor Preparation
If your floor isn’t ready for installation, expect added expenses for prepping it.
Room Size & Layout
Larger rooms mean more materials, but oddly shaped spaces may require extra labor time.
How To Save On Hardwood Flooring Cost
1. Opt for Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood costs less than solid hardwood and is easier to install. Not only are material costs lower, but you could also save on labor since this type of wood is more DIY-friendly.
2. Shop Sales and Buy in Bulk
Flooring stores often run promotions, especially during off-peak seasons. Purchasing during sales or buying in bulk can save you a significant amount on materials.
3. Use Affordable Wood Species in Low-Traffic Areas
You can mix and match wood species in different areas of your home. Use the more affordable woods like oak in less visible or lower-traffic areas and splurge on the pricier species where it counts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to install hardwood flooring during a specific season in Nashville?
Yes, you might find that installation costs are slightly lower during the offseason, usually in late fall or winter when contractors have fewer projects. However, it depends on the demand and contractor availability.
How can I know if my subfloor needs preparation?
A visual inspection can give you an idea, but for a thorough assessment, it’s best to have a professional check for uneven spots, moisture issues, or damage.
Can I install hardwood flooring over my existing floors to save on costs?
It depends on the condition and material of your existing floors. Hardwood can be installed over certain types of flooring, like tile or plywood, but they must be stable, level, and in good condition.
Conclusion
Understanding hardwood flooring cost is your first step towards a stunning home upgrade. From $4 to $14 per square foot, hardwood offers a range of options to fit your budget and style.
Whether you go for the classic appeal of solid hardwood or the versatility of engineered planks, you’re investing in lasting beauty and value. Smart choices in materials and installation can lead to significant savings without compromising quality.
And don’t forget those extra costs like subfloor prep – essential for a flawless finish.
Ready to transform your home with beautiful hardwood floors? Let our experienced professionals handle your installation. Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward your dream floors.
