Wooden Flooring Cost: Ultimate UK Cost Guide [2025]
As a homeowner and DIY enthusiast, I’ve learned that wooden flooring can transform a space, adding warmth, beauty, and value to any room. But before you start picking out samples, it’s important to understand the costs involved. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about wooden flooring costs in the UK, from materials to installation and maintenance. And of course: How to save money!
Key Takeaways:
- Wooden flooring cost in the UK typically ranges from £40 – £100 per square metre.
- The total price depends on factors like wood type, room size, and installation complexity.
- Professional installation usually costs between £20 and £40 per square metre.
- With proper care, wooden floors can last 20-100 years or more.
- DIY installation can save money but requires skill and specialized tools.
What Affects Wooden Flooring Costs?
Several factors influence the overall cost of wooden flooring:
- Type of wood: Hardwoods like oak or walnut are pricier than softwoods like pine.
- Solid wood vs. engineered wood: Solid wood is generally more expensive but can last longer.
- Grade of wood: Higher grades with fewer knots and imperfections cost more.
- Finish: Pre-finished boards are more expensive than unfinished ones.
- Room size and shape: Larger or irregularly shaped rooms require more materials and labor.
- Subfloor condition: Poor subfloors may need extensive preparation, increasing costs.
- Installation method: Some methods, like herringbone patterns, are more labor-intensive.
- Location: Labour rates vary across the UK, with London and the South East generally being pricier.
🫰Breakdown: What does Wooden Flooring Cost in the UK?
Wooden flooring costs in the UK can vary widely based on several factors. On average, you can expect to pay between £40 and £100 per m2 for including labor costs.
Let’s look at the average costs for different types of wooden flooring, including materials and installation:
| Wood Type | Material / m² | Installation / m² | Total Cost / m² |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine | £25 - £40 | £20 - £30 | £45 - £70 |
| Bamboo | £30 - £50 | £20 - £30 | £50 - £80 |
| Engineered Wood | £30 - £60 | £25 - £35 | £55 - £95 |
| Oak | £40 - £70 | £25 - £35 | £65 - £105 |
| Maple | £45 - £75 | £25 - £35 | £70 - £110 |
| Cherry | £50 - £80 | £25 - £35 | £75 - £110 |
| Hickory | £55 - £85 | £30 - £40 | £85 - £125 |
| Walnut | £60 - £90 | £30 - £40 | £90 - £130 |
| Parquet | £65 - £95 | £35 - £45 | £100 - £140 |
However, keep in mind that this figures are estimates and can of course vary.
Cost Example: Oak Flooring in a 20m² Room
Here’s a more detailed breakdown for installing oak flooring in a 20m² room near London. I want to give you a realistic picture, including some additional expenses that often catch people off guard:
| Overview | 1 m² | 20 m² |
|---|---|---|
| Oak flooring | £55 | £1,100 |
| Underlay | £5 | £100 |
| Beading and accessories | £4 | £80 |
| Installation labor | £30 | £600 |
| Removal of old flooring | £6 | £120 |
| Total Cost | £100 | £2,000 |
5 Popular Wooden Flooring Options: Pros, Cons and Costs
From my research and experience, I’ve found that UK homeowners often consider these popular wooden flooring options. Let me share with you their approximate costs and key features:
🧱 1. Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood consists of a layer of real wood on top of plywood or high-density fibreboard (HDF). It’s stable and often suitable for underfloor heating.
- Cost: £25 – £85 per m²
- Pros: More stable than solid wood, suitable for most rooms
- Cons: Can only be refinished a limited number of times
🌲 2. Softwood Flooring
Made from coniferous trees like pine, softwood flooring is less durable but can be a budget-friendly option.
- Cost: £35 – £100 per m²
- Pros: Affordable, can be refinished multiple times
- Cons: Softer and more prone to dents and scratches
🪵 3. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors, made from deciduous trees like oak or walnut, offer durability and timeless appeal.
- Cost: £50 – £120 per m²
- Pros: Durable, long-lasting, adds value to your home
- Cons: Higher cost, sensitive to moisture and temperature changes
🎋 4. Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is a sustainable option made from fast-growing bamboo grass. It’s known for its strength and eco-friendliness.
- Cost: £30 – £90 per m²
- Pros: Eco-friendly, durable, resistant to moisture and insects
- Cons: Can be sensitive to humidity, limited colour options
🔷 5. Parquet Flooring
Parquet flooring consists of small pieces of wood arranged in geometric patterns (like in the UK popular Herringbone or Chevron), offering a unique and elegant look.
- Cost: £40 – £110 per m²
- Pros: Visually appearing, can increase property value, suitable for various wood types
- Cons: Complex installation, higher cost, can be challenging to repair
Labor Costs for Wooden Flooring Installation
Installation costs can vary based on the complexity of the job and your location. On average, you can expect:
- Basic installation: £20 – £30 per m²
- Complex installation (e.g., parquet patterns): £30 – £50 per m²
Additional Costs to Consider
Don’t forget these potential extra expenses when budgeting for your wooden floor:
- Subfloor preparation: £10 – £20 per m²
- Underlay: £3 – £10 per m²
- Skirting boards: £5 – £15 per metre
- Door thresholds: £20 – £50 per door
- Staining or sealing: £10 – £20 per m²
- Furniture removal and replacement: £100 – £300
DIY vs Professional Installation: A Cost Comparison
While DIY installation can save money, I recommend professional installation for most wooden flooring projects. Here’s why:
- Expertise: Professionals ensure proper installation techniques, crucial for longevity.
- Tools: They have specialised tools that most homeowners don’t own.
- Time-saving: A professional team can complete the job much faster than a DIY attempt.
- Guaranteed results: Many professionals offer warranties on their work.
Unless you’re experienced with similar projects, I generally recommend professional installation for best results and to avoid costly mistakes. The cost difference between DIY and professional installation isn’t as significant as you might think when you factor in things like tool hire, your time and effort and potential mistakes.
The Installation Process
Understanding the installation process can help you appreciate the costs involved. And it also helps you understand at which stage your professional installer is and what they are doing:
- Acclimatisation: Wood needs to adjust to your home’s environment for 48-72 hours.
- Subfloor Preparation: This involves cleaning, levelling, and potentially adding a moisture barrier.
- Underlay Installation: A crucial step for sound insulation and comfort.
- Flooring Installation: The boards are laid according to the chosen method (floating, glue-down, or nail-down).
- Finishing: If using unfinished wood, sanding and applying a finish is the final step.
- Cleanup and Inspection: The area is cleaned, and the installation is checked for any issues.
🕒 How long does wooden flooring installation take?
From my experience, I’ve seen wooden flooring installation times vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors.
- Small room (up to 20m²): Usually 1-2 days
- Large room (40-60m²): Typically 3-5 days
- Whole house (3-4 bedrooms): Often 1-2 weeks
Installation time depends on:
- Floor type: Oak wood is usually faster to install than parquet.
- Subfloor condition: Poor subfloors need extra prep time.
- Existing flooring removal: Can add half to a full day.
Remember, wood needs 2-3 days to acclimate before installation starts. I always suggest adding a day or two to your timeline for unexpected issues. It’s better to finish early than be caught off guard by delays.
Maintenance and Longevity of Wooden Floors
A well-maintained wooden floor can last decades. Here are some maintenance costs to consider:
- Regular cleaning: Minimal cost, just a suitable wood floor cleaner
- Refinishing: £20 – £40 per m² every 7-10 years
- Repairs: £100 – £300 for minor repairs
The longevity of your floor depends on the wood type, foot traffic, and maintenance. Hardwoods like oak can last 100+ years with proper care, while softer woods might need replacement after 20-30 years.
Benefits of Choosing Wooden Flooring
Wooden flooring remains a popular choice for UK homes. Here’s why I love it:
- Durability: With proper care, wooden floors can last for generations.
- Timeless appeal: Wood never goes out of style.
- Improved air quality: Unlike carpets, wood doesn’t trap allergens.
- Increased property value: Homes with wood floors sell faster and for more money.
- Easy to clean: A quick sweep or mop is usually all that’s needed.
Btw, if you’re also interested in other flooring types, check out my new carpet fitting cost guide.
How to find the right Supplier and Fitter for your Wooden Flooring
Finding a trustworthy installer is crucial for your wooden flooring project. Here’s how I approach this:
- Check industry credentials: I look for memberships in bodies like the Contract Flooring Association.
- Review customer feedback: I read online reviews and ask for client references.
- Get detailed quotes: I always request written quotes to avoid surprises.
- Evaluate expertise: I ask about their experience with my chosen flooring type.
- Confirm warranties: I ensure they offer warranties on both materials and labour.
These steps have helped me identify reliable professionals for my flooring projects.
💷 6 Money-Saving Tips for Wooden Flooring
As someone who’s always looking for ways to save, here are my top tips:
- Consider engineered wood: It’s often cheaper than solid wood and suitable for more environments.
- Choose a lower grade: Lower grade wood with more knots and color variations is cheaper but still attractive.
- Install in the off-season: Some installers offer discounts during slower periods.
- Opt for a floating installation: It’s generally cheaper than glue-down or nail-down methods.
- Prepare the subfloor yourself: If you’re handy, you can save on subfloor preparation costs.
- Get free quotes: Get multiple quotes from different suppliers and installers.
🌿 Environmental Considerations and Costs
Eco-friendly wooden flooring options are gaining popularity. While they may have higher upfront costs, they often provide long-term benefits:
- FSC-Certified Wood: Ensures sustainable forest management but may cost 5-20% more.
- Reclaimed Wood: Offers unique character and is environmentally friendly, but can be 20-30% more expensive than new wood.
- Low-VOC finishes: Reduce indoor air pollution and are better for your health. Low-VOC stands for low volatile organic compounds. VOCs are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing potentially harmful gases into the air. In the context of wooden flooring, VOCs are often found in finishes, stains, and adhesives used during installation or refinishing.
- Bamboo: Fast-growing and sustainable, bamboo flooring costs are comparable to mid-range hardwoods.
FAQs
Q: How much does wooden flooring cost on average in the UK? A: Wooden flooring in the UK typically costs between £40 and £100 per square metre. This range covers various types, from budget-friendly engineered wood to premium solid hardwoods.
Q: How long does wooden flooring installation take? A: For an average room (20-30 m²), professional installation typically takes 1-2 days.
Q: Can I install wooden flooring over existing tiles or carpet? A: It’s possible, but not always recommended. The subfloor needs to be level and stable. Sometimes, it’s better to remove the old flooring first.
Q: Is wooden flooring suitable for kitchens and bathrooms? A: Engineered wood or specially treated hardwoods can work in kitchens. For bathrooms, it’s generally better to choose water-resistant alternatives like luxury vinyl tiles or regular tiles.
Q: Can I install wooden flooring over underfloor heating? A: Yes, but choose engineered wood or certain hardwoods that are stable with temperature changes. Always consult with a professional to ensure compatibility.
Q: How often should I refinish my wooden floor? A: This depends on wear and tear, but typically every 7-10 years for high-traffic areas.
Q: Can I change the color of my wooden floor? A: Yes, solid wood floors can be sanded and restained. Engineered wood floors may have limited refinishing options.
Q: How soon can I walk on my new wooden floor? A: For prefinished floors, you can usually walk on them immediately. For floors finished on-site, wait at least 24 hours, preferably 72 hours for oil-based finishes.
Conclusion
Wooden flooring is a fantastic investment that can add beauty and value to your home. While the initial cost might seem high, the longevity and timeless appeal of wood make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Whether you opt for solid hardwood or the practical benefits of engineered wood, proper installation and maintenance are key to getting the most out of your investment. Don’t hesitate to consult with professionals and get multiple quotes.
And remember: The cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Consider long-term durability, maintenance needs, and the overall impact on your home when making decisions.
