The Cost Of Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors come in many shapes, species, forms, prices, and styles. There is no right or wrong product when it comes to wood flooring. For some customers, traditional hardwood is going to be the most practical and stylish. Other people will definitely want an engineered floor because of the low maintenance and durability.
Of course, the cost of any product can ultimately be the most significant deciding factor for many homeowners. This article breaks down the various cost of some of the most popular wood flooring products.
Traditional Wood Floors
There are many different grades of wood flooring, but one of the most important factors when it comes to the overall price is the type of wood. The most expensive hardwood products are going to be exotic hardwoods like mahogany and walnut. These can cost over $15 per square foot.
On the lower end of the price scale, you have softer woods, like pine and oak, that can cost less than $6 per square foot. Usually, whether you choose a low-end or high-end wood, the cost of installation will be comparable form product to product.
You will end up paying more for the installation of a high-end product, if only because you are buying it from a high-end dealer who works with high-end installers.
Engineered Wood Floors
Engineered wood floors are a great alternative to traditional products for most homeowners. An engineered floor has a hardwood veneer that is glued on top of the layers of a low-cost composite.
You see the expensive hardwood, like mahogany, but underneath it is it cheap plywood-like material that helps to keep down the cost of the flooring. Just like with traditional woods, the type of wood is going to have a big impact on the overall price.
However, the thickness and design of the planks can also vary from product to product. The thinner the veneer is, the cheaper the product is going to be. Cheaper engineered products generally aren't as durable because the hardwood later is so thin. They also cannot be refinished or sanded down and repaired if necessary.
Both traditional and engineered floors are made with modular plank designs. Of course, not every product is modular. However, you can find all of the most popular wood types with a modular design that is easy to self-install.
Professional installation is still recommended for most homeowners who aren't experienced with such work. Contact a company such as New York Hardwood Floors to discuss your options.