Timber flooring is a popular and timeless choice for many homeowners in Melbourne. Known for its aesthetic appeal, durability, and ability to increase property value, it’s no surprise that timber flooring continues to be in high demand. However, when considering timber flooring, one of the most common questions people ask is: How much does timber flooring cost per m² in Melbourne?
The cost of timber flooring can vary significantly depending on the type of timber, finish, and the installation method. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the costs associated with timber flooring in Melbourne, covering the price per square meter (m²) for various timber types, finishes, and installation options. This detailed price breakdown will help you make an informed decision about your flooring choice.
Read more: Best Timber Flooring Options in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs (2025 Guide)
Understanding Timber Flooring Costs in Melbourne
Before we dive into specific costs, it’s important to understand the factors that influence the price of timber flooring. The price can fluctuate based on the following elements:
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Type of Timber: Different timber species have different costs. Hardwood floors, such as oak or walnut, tend to be more expensive than softwood floors, like pine or bamboo.
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Finish and Treatment: The finish applied to the timber can impact the price. For instance, a natural matte finish may cost less than a high-gloss finish or a hand-scraped finish.
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Installation: Labor costs for installing timber flooring will add to the overall price. The complexity of the installation, the size of the area, and the type of floorboard selected can all affect the installation cost.
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Size and Area: The larger the area that needs flooring, the higher the total cost. However, many suppliers offer discounted rates for bulk purchases.
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Quality: Higher-grade timber with fewer imperfections or defects can cost more per square meter than lower-grade timber.
With these factors in mind, let’s dive into the price breakdown for different types of timber flooring in Melbourne.
1. Engineered Timber Flooring Costs
Engineered timber is made from multiple layers of timber that are bonded together. The top layer, or veneer, is usually made from hardwood, while the core layers are composed of softer wood or plywood. This construction makes engineered timber more stable than solid timber, especially in areas with fluctuating humidity levels.
Price Range for Engineered Timber Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $50 – $70 per m²
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Mid-range: $70 – $110 per m²
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High-end: $110 – $200+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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The thickness of the veneer layer: Thicker veneers tend to cost more, as they offer better durability and the ability to be sanded and refinished.
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Timber species: Popular hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut will cost more than softer species like pine or bamboo.
Popular Engineered Timber Options
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Oak: The most common and popular engineered timber, offering a natural look and excellent durability. Price ranges from $70 to $150 per m² depending on the finish and grade.
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Spotted Gum: Known for its striking grain patterns and rich tones, Spotted Gum engineered timber typically costs between $90 and $180 per m².
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Blackbutt: This Australian hardwood is lighter in colour and typically costs between $80 and $170 per m².
2. Solid Timber Flooring Costs
Solid timber flooring is made from a single piece of wood, typically hardwood, and is available in a variety of species. It’s the most traditional form of timber flooring and provides a premium, authentic look.
Price Range for Solid Timber Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $80 – $120 per m²
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Mid-range: $120 – $180 per m²
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High-end: $180 – $300+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Wood species: Hardwoods like oak, teak, and walnut are more expensive compared to pine or Australian species like Jarrah or Blackbutt.
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Grade and finish: Higher-grade solid timber with fewer knots and defects will cost more, and premium finishes (e.g., hand-scraped, matte, or high-gloss finishes) will add to the cost.
Popular Solid Timber Options
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Tasmanian Oak: Known for its light and neutral tones, Tasmanian Oak is often priced between $100 and $170 per m².
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Jarrah: A hardwood known for its rich, reddish hues, Jarrah typically ranges from $150 to $250 per m².
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Victorian Ash: A pale, creamy timber popular for its versatility, with prices ranging from $120 to $200 per m².
3. Hybrid Timber Flooring Costs
Hybrid timber flooring is a combination of engineered timber and vinyl. The top layer is a hardwood veneer, and the core is a high-density vinyl material. This type of flooring is waterproof and highly durable, making it a great choice for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and even basements.
Price Range for Hybrid Timber Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $40 – $70 per m²
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Mid-range: $70 – $120 per m²
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High-end: $120 – $200+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Wood veneer thickness: A thicker veneer provides a more authentic timber look but can increase the price.
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Brand and warranty: Well-known brands with longer warranties tend to cost more but often provide higher quality and better customer support.
Popular Hybrid Timber Options
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Spotted Gum Hybrid: This hybrid option combines the look of Spotted Gum with the added durability of vinyl, priced between $80 and $140 per m².
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Oak Hybrid: Oak-look hybrid flooring is popular for its modern and classic aesthetic, with prices ranging from $90 to $150 per m².
4. Bamboo Flooring Costs
Bamboo flooring is made from bamboo grass that is processed into planks. It is an eco-friendly alternative to hardwood and has become increasingly popular in Melbourne for its sustainability and strength.
Price Range for Bamboo Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $40 – $70 per m²
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Mid-range: $70 – $110 per m²
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High-end: $110 – $160 per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Strand-woven vs. Horizontal bamboo: Strand-woven bamboo is denser and more durable, and typically costs more than the horizontal or vertical bamboo styles.
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Finish: Bamboo floors with a natural finish are usually cheaper, while carbonized bamboo (which has been treated for a darker colour) can be more expensive.
Popular Bamboo Options
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Strand-woven Bamboo: Prices range from $70 to $140 per m², depending on the finish and grade.
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Carbonized Bamboo: This darker version of bamboo typically costs between $90 and $160 per m².
5. Reclaimed Timber Flooring Costs
Reclaimed timber is sourced from old buildings, barns, or warehouses. It offers a unique, rustic look and is often sought after for its historical and character-filled appearance.
Price Range for Reclaimed Timber Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $90 – $130 per m²
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Mid-range: $130 – $180 per m²
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High-end: $180 – $250+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Source and rarity: The rarer the reclaimed timber, the more expensive it is. Timber sourced from old buildings or barns, for instance, may have a higher price tag.
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Condition and quality: The better the condition of the reclaimed timber (e.g., fewer imperfections or damage), the higher the price.
Popular Reclaimed Timber Options
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Reclaimed Oak: Priced between $130 and $200 per m², reclaimed oak is highly prized for its strength and history.
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Reclaimed Spotted Gum: A popular Australian hardwood, with prices ranging from $150 to $250 per m².
Read more: Bamboo vs. Reclaimed Timber Floor: Which is More Sustainable?
6. Parquetry Flooring Costs
Parquetry flooring consists of small blocks or strips of timber arranged in intricate patterns, such as herringbone or chevron. It’s known for its luxurious, eye-catching design, which adds sophistication to any room. Parquetry is typically more expensive than other timber floors due to the detailed craftsmanship involved in the installation process.
Price Range for Parquetry Flooring
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Low-end (Budget): $90 – $130 per m²
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Mid-range: $130 – $180 per m²
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High-end: $180 – $250+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Timber Species: Parquetry made from exotic or premium hardwoods like walnut or oak will be more expensive than those made from local species.
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Pattern Complexity: More intricate patterns, such as chevron or basket weave, tend to increase the cost of the flooring due to the complexity of installation.
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Finish: The type of finish (e.g., matte, satin, gloss) can also affect the cost.
Popular Parquetry Flooring Options
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Oak Parquetry: A classic and popular choice for parquetry, costing between $120 and $200 per m².
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Walnut Parquetry: Known for its rich color and sophisticated appearance, walnut parquet typically costs between $180 and $250 per m².
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Spotted Gum Parquetry: A stunning Australian hardwood, priced between $150 and $230 per m².
7. Floating Floors Costs
Floating floors are a type of flooring system that doesn’t require nails or glue. Instead, the boards interlock and “float” on top of an underlayment. This makes floating floors easier and faster to install compared to traditional timber flooring, making it a popular option for DIY enthusiasts or those on a budget.
Price Range for Floating Floors
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Low-end (Budget): $40 – $60 per m²
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Mid-range: $60 – $100 per m²
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High-end: $100 – $200+ per m²
Factors Influencing Price:
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Material: Floating floors can be made from engineered timber, bamboo, laminate, or vinyl, each with different price points.
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Underlayment Quality: A higher-quality underlayment can add to the overall cost of the floating floor system.
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Timber Species: Like engineered timber, the type of wood used for the veneer layer impacts the overall cost.
Popular Floating Floor Options
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Engineered Timber Floating Floors: Engineered timber floating floors typically range from $70 to $150 per m².
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Bamboo Floating Floors: Bamboo floating floors generally cost between $50 and $120 per m².
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Laminate Floating Floors: The most affordable floating option, with prices ranging from $40 to $80 per m².
Additional Costs: Installation, Finishing, and Maintenance
While the price of timber flooring per m² is the most significant cost, it’s essential to consider additional costs such as installation, finishing, and maintenance.
Installation Costs
Installation costs in Melbourne typically range from $30 to $50 per m², depending on the complexity of the project. If you choose to have the floorboards glued or nailed, the cost may increase slightly. For DIY enthusiasts, pre-finished timber floors or click-lock systems can save on installation costs.
Finishing and Treatment Costs
Some timber floors may require additional treatment or finishing, such as sanding, polishing, or sealing. These treatments can add anywhere from $5 to $20 per m², depending on the type of finish and the floor’s condition.
Maintenance Costs
Timber flooring is low-maintenance but does require some periodic care. You may need to budget for periodic sanding and refinishing, which can cost around $30 to $50 per m², depending on the condition of the floor.
FAQs: How Much Does Timber Flooring Cost in Melbourne?
1. What is the average cost of timber flooring per square meter in Melbourne?
The average cost of timber flooring in Melbourne can vary depending on the type and quality of timber. On average:
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Engineered Timber Flooring: $50 – $200+ per m²
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Solid Timber Flooring: $80 – $300+ per m²
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Hybrid Timber Flooring: $40 – $200+ per m²
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Bamboo Flooring: $40 – $160 per m²
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Reclaimed Timber Flooring: $90 – $250+ per m²
Prices can fluctuate depending on the timber species, finish, and installation costs.
2. What factors affect the cost of timber flooring in Melbourne?
Several factors influence the cost of timber flooring, including:
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Type of timber: Hardwoods like oak, walnut, and spotted gum are generally more expensive than softwoods like pine or bamboo.
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Finish and treatment: High-end finishes, such as hand-scraping or high-gloss coatings, can increase the overall price.
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Installation method: Gluing, nailing, or floating installation methods all have different costs.
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Size of the area: Larger areas may benefit from discounts, but generally, the more square meters you need to cover, the higher the total cost.
3. What’s the difference between engineered and solid timber flooring?
Engineered Timber Flooring is made up of multiple layers of wood with a veneer of hardwood on top. It’s more stable than solid timber and can be installed in areas with fluctuating humidity, making it a cost-effective and durable choice.
Solid Timber Flooring, on the other hand, is made from a single piece of wood. It offers a classic and premium look but may be more expensive and is more sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.
4. Which type of timber flooring is best for my home?
The best type of timber flooring depends on your preferences and the conditions of your home.
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If you’re after a durable, cost-effective option with modern appeal, engineered timber is a great choice.
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For a more traditional, natural look that adds value to your home, solid timber is ideal.
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If you’re looking for something eco-friendly and sustainable, bamboo may be the perfect option.
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Hybrid timber flooring works well in areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms, offering waterproof benefits.
5. Are there additional costs when installing timber floors?
Yes, in addition to the price of the timber itself, you should consider the following potential additional costs:
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Installation: Labor costs typically range from $30 to $50 per m², depending on the complexity of the installation.
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Finishing and treatment: If your timber needs to be sanded, polished, or sealed, this could add $5 to $20 per m².
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Maintenance: Periodic sanding and refinishing can cost around $30 to $50 per m² every few years, depending on the wear and tear of your floors.
6. How long does timber flooring last?
Timber flooring is known for its durability. With proper maintenance, it can last anywhere from 20 to 100 years, depending on the type of timber, finish, and usage. High-quality hardwood floors like oak or walnut, when properly maintained, can last several decades.
7. Can I install timber flooring myself?
While it’s possible to install timber flooring yourself, it’s recommended to hire a professional installer if you want the best results. DIY installation can save you money on labor costs, but it requires experience and the right tools to ensure that the floors are installed correctly, especially for solid timber or engineered timber that needs precise fitting.
8. How do I maintain my timber floors?
To keep your timber floors looking their best, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential:
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Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your timber floors regularly to remove dust and dirt. Use a damp mop with a mild cleaning solution to avoid damage.
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Avoid moisture: Timber floors can warp or get damaged by excess moisture, so be careful not to spill water and wipe up spills immediately.
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Refinish when necessary: Sand and refinish your timber floors every 5 to 10 years to maintain their shine and protect the surface.
9. Are timber floors environmentally friendly?
Yes, timber flooring can be an environmentally friendly option if sourced responsibly. Look for timber that is certified by reputable organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or choose bamboo, which is a renewable resource and more sustainable than many hardwood options.
Conclusion: How Much Does Timber Flooring Cost in Melbourne?
When choosing timber flooring for your Melbourne property, be sure to factor in the additional costs of installation, finishing, and maintenance to get an accurate total price. While timber flooring can be a significant investment, it’s a durable and visually appealing option that adds value to your home or commercial space. By carefully considering the various options available and budgeting accordingly, you can achieve the timber flooring of your dreams at a price that suits your needs.
Ready to transform your space with high-quality timber flooring?
At CB Timber Floors, we offer expert timber flooring installation and supply services across Melbourne. Whether you’re looking for engineered timber, solid hardwood, or bamboo flooring, our team ensures a professional installation and a wide range of timber options. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you find the perfect timber flooring solution for your property!
