How much to install hardwood floors?
Boston and surrounding areas
Cost for installation per square foot: between $3 to $5
Cost for material per square foot: between $6 to $12
Cost data in this article is sourced from Homeguide, Homeyou, and company records.
You can find out the cost of installtation of hardwood floor with Weles by using our calculator:
Calculate the Cost of Installation
Updated: Jun 24, 2024
On average, the cost of hardwood flooring in Boston can range from $6 to $12 per square foot for materials, and from $3 to $5 per square foot for installation. However, these prices can vary widely based on the factors listed below. It's a good idea to get estimates from multiple contractors to get a sense of the cost for your specific project.
Why Boston is Different
The hardwood flooring installation process also has its own obstacles and rates that Boston residents should expect. In Boston, labor costs are slightly higher compared to normal rates across the country. Local building codes also involve additional permits and inspections, which adds to the cost and time of the project. There is also the aspect of the age of homes in Boston and the variety of hardwood flooring types that are special and unique and must be handled by personnel with the proper knowledge and skills for installation, hence the cost of conductors. These factors make wood flooring installation in Boston more expensive and complicated than in other regions.
The Average Cost in Boston
| Square Footage | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | Small apartment | $1,800 – $3,400 |
| 500 | Average single-room studio | $4,500 – $8,500 |
| 800 | Typical one-bedroom apartment | $7,200 – $13,600 |
| 1,200 | Average-sized house | $10,800 – $20,400 |
| 2,000 | Larger home | $18,000 – $34,000 |
Factors Affecting the Cost
Hardwood flooring can add beauty and value to your home, but it can also be a significant investment. The cost of the hardwood floor installation in Boston will depend on a number of factors, including the type of wood, the size of your project, and the installation method. Here is a breakdown of some of the main factors that can impact the cost of hardwood flooring in Boston:
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Type of wood: Hardwood flooring is available in a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics. Some common types of wood used for hardwood flooring include oak, maple, cherry, and hickory. Prices can vary widely based on the type of wood you choose, with some species being more expensive than others.
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Size of the project: The cost of hardwood flooring is typically quoted on a per-square-foot basis. The larger the area you need to cover, the more expensive the project will be.
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Installation method: There are several different methods for installing hardwood flooring, including nail-down, glue-down, and floating. Nail-down and glue-down installations are more labor-intensive and may be more expensive than a floating installation.
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Grade of wood: Hardwood flooring is available in several different grades, including clear, select, and common. Clear-grade wood is the highest quality and will be the most expensive, while common-grade wood is the least expensive.
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Finish: Hardwood flooring is available with a variety of finishes, including unfinished, pre-finished, and custom-finished. Unfinished wood will need to be sanded and finished on-site, which can add to the cost of the project. Pre-finished wood is already finished at the factory, which can save time and money on the installation process. Custom-finished wood is sanded and finished on-site to your specific preferences, which can add to the cost.
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Subfloor preparation: If you are installing hardwood flooring over an existing subfloor, you may need to prepare the surface before installation. This can include leveling the subfloor, repairing any damage, or adding a moisture barrier. These steps can add to the cost of the project.
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Stairs: If you are installing hardwood flooring on your stairs, this can add to the overall cost of the project. Stairs require more labor and materials, as each step must be individually cut and fitted.
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Custom features: If you want to include custom features in your hardwood floorings, such as inlays or borders, this can add to the cost.
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Location: The cost of hardwood flooring in Boston may vary depending on your location within the city. Prices can be higher in more expensive neighborhoods or for projects in higher-rise buildings that require additional logistics and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Installing wood flooring yourself may be cheaper. However, getting a professional finish requires a lot of time, effort and experience.
Yes, it is possible to install hardwood flooring without removing baseboards. But it may require additional trim or molding to close the expansion gaps.
Yes, you must remove all furniture before installing hardwood floors.
Hardwood floors should not be installed in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or basements, as water can cause the wood to warp and deteriorate.