Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners in Melbourne due to its timeless appeal, durability, and natural beauty. However, when it comes to installing hardwood floors, many homeowners wonder about the cost and the factors that can influence the overall price.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take an in-depth look at hardwood flooring installation costs in Melbourne, breaking down all the essential factors that affect pricing. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect, how to save money, and the best options for your flooring project.
The Benefits of Hardwood Flooring
Before diving into the specifics of installation costs, it’s important to recognize why so many Melbourne homeowners choose hardwood flooring in the first place. Some of the key benefits include:
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Aesthetic Appeal: Hardwood floors provide an elegant, timeless look that enhances the value of your home.
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Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, making them a long-term investment.
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Easy Maintenance: Hardwood floors are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional sanding and refinishing.
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Increased Property Value: Homes with hardwood floors often see a boost in market value due to their premium appearance and durability.
Despite these benefits, installing hardwood flooring can be an expensive project. Let’s now look at the various factors influencing the cost of installation in Melbourne.
Key Factors That Affect Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs
1. Material Costs
1.1. Types of Hardwood and Their Costs
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Blackbutt: $65 per square meter
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Jarrah: $72 per square meter
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Ironbark: $90+ per square meter
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Tasmanian Oak: $85 to $124 per square meter
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Brush Box: $82 to $160 per square meter
1.2. Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood
Engineered Timber Spotted Gum
The type of hardwood you choose will significantly impact the installation cost. There are two primary categories of hardwood flooring:
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Solid Hardwood Flooring: This is the traditional hardwood option made from a single piece of timber. Solid hardwood is generally more expensive due to its authenticity and durability. The cost of solid hardwood flooring can range from $50 to $150 per square meter depending on the type of wood (e.g., oak, maple, or walnut).
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Engineered Hardwood Flooring: This type is made from multiple layers of timber, with a top layer of real hardwood. Engineered hardwood is a more affordable option compared to solid hardwood, with prices ranging from $30 to $120 per square meter.
The cost difference comes down to the quality of the timber, the thickness of the planks, and the brand. Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian walnut or oak are more expensive than domestic varieties like pine.
2. Labor Costs
2.1. Average Labor Costs
Labor costs are another significant component of the total hardwood floor installation price. In Melbourne, professional hardwood floor installers charge between $30 and $50 per hour, with the average installation taking 1-2 days depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Most installers will charge a flat rate per square meter, typically ranging from $20 to $40 per square meter. The experience and reputation of the installer can also influence the price. A highly skilled and experienced installer may charge more, but they will often provide a better finish and ensure the floors are correctly laid.
2.2. Factors Influencing Labor Costs
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Room Size: Larger rooms generally require more time and effort to install, resulting in higher labor costs.
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Type of Flooring: Solid hardwood installation can be more labor-intensive than engineered hardwood, affecting the overall cost.
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Subfloor Condition: If the subfloor requires significant preparation, such as leveling or repair, additional labor costs may apply.
3. Additional Expenses to Consider
3.1. Subfloor Preparation
A level and smooth subfloor is essential for proper installation of hardwood flooring. The cost to prepare your subfloor will vary based on the condition of your existing floor. If the subfloor is uneven, damaged, or requires extensive work, the price will increase.
For example:
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Basic Subfloor Preparation: $5–$10 per square meter
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Complex Subfloor Repairs: $15–$30 per square meter
You may also need to remove existing flooring, which can cost between $10 and $25 per square meter.
3.2. Underlayment
3.3. Delivery and Waste Disposal
3.4. Sanding and Polishing
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Polyurethane (Gloss or Matte): Polyurethane is a popular and durable finish, but it may add between $10 and $25 per square meter to the cost.
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Oil-based Finishes: These finishes tend to be more expensive and can add $15 to $30 per square meter.
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Eco-Friendly Finishes: Natural oils or water-based finishes are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 per square meter.
If you opt for pre-finished hardwood, the cost of finishing may be included in the initial price. However, unfinished hardwood requires additional time and effort for coating, which may increase the overall cost.
3.5. Removal of Existing Flooring
Removing old flooring adds to the overall cost. The price of removal will depend on the type of existing floor and its condition. For example, removing old carpet is cheaper than ceramic tile or vinyl.
On average, removal costs can range from $5 to $15 per square meter, with more difficult jobs pushing the cost to $25 per square meter.
3.6. Additional Costs
There may be additional costs depending on the complexity of the installation and customization options:
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Stair Installation: Installing hardwood on stairs is more labor-intensive and can add an additional $40 to $100 per step.
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Thresholds & Transitions: These are required when the hardwood floor meets different flooring materials. Depending on the style and material, they can cost between $10 and $30 per piece.
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Underlay or Insulation: Some hardwood floors require underlay for better soundproofing or thermal insulation. The cost of underlay typically ranges from $5 to $10 per square meter.
Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs in Melbourne: A Breakdown
Now that we’ve covered the factors influencing hardwood floor installation, let’s break down the costs for a typical project in Melbourne.
Example 1: Small Room (20m²)
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Material: $1,200 (Solid Hardwood, Oak)
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Subfloor Preparation: $200
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Labor: $600
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Finishing: $300
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Total: $2,300
Example 2: Medium Room (50m²)
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Material: $2,500 (Engineered Hardwood, Maple)
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Subfloor Preparation: $400
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Labor: $1,200
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Finishing: $500
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Total: $4,600
Example 3: Large Room (100m²)
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Material: $6,000 (Solid Hardwood, Walnut)
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Subfloor Preparation: $800
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Labor: $2,500
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Finishing: $1,000
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Total: $10,300
As you can see, the total cost will increase with the size of the area being covered. For larger projects, you may be able to negotiate better pricing, especially when working with established suppliers and installers.
Tips to Save on Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs
While hardwood floors can be a significant investment, there are ways to save on installation costs without compromising on quality:
1. Opt for Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is typically more affordable than solid hardwood and provides similar aesthetics and durability.
2. Shop Around for Quotes
Always request multiple quotes from different suppliers and installers. By comparing prices, you can find the best deal.
3. Do Some Preparation Yourself
If you’re comfortable, you can save money by removing the existing flooring or doing some basic subfloor preparation.
4. Choose Pre-Finished Hardwood
Pre-finished hardwood may have a higher initial price, but it can save on finishing costs and reduce installation time.
5. Time Your Purchase
Look for sales or promotions, especially during off-seasons, when flooring materials may be offered at a discount.
Conclusion
Hardwood flooring installation costs in Melbourne vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of wood, the size of the area, and additional preparation or finishing requirements. By understanding the factors that influence pricing, you can make an informed decision that suits your budget and preferences.
Whether you opt for solid hardwood or engineered hardwood, professional installation ensures that your floors are laid properly and last for years to come. By following our tips and shopping around for the best deals, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of hardwood flooring without breaking the bank.
