HOW MUCH DOES FLOORING COST?

Whether you prefer the look of wood, natural stone, carpet or tiles, knowing how much you'll need to spend on each material is key to setting a realistic budget for this essential element of your renovation or self-build project

- TIM PHILIPS

Choosing the appropriate flooring is a key part of a room scheme and one of the most significant financial factors, regardless of whether you're planning an entire renovation or just updating a room.

From ceramic tiles and solid wood floorboards to low-cost vinyl and plush wool carpets, the range of materials available is extensive, with costs differing greatly.

This guide will explain average costs of various flooring types, highlight important elements that affect the final cost—like installation, subfloor preparation, and room layout—and provide guidance on how to strike a balance between price, functionality and style.

Knowing how much to budget for can help you make wise decisions and prevent unpleasant surprises later on, whether you're renovating a kitchen or hallway or laying new flooring throughout your house.

WHAT FACTORS INFLUENCE THE COST OF FLOORING?

The cost of installing new flooring is determined by a variety of practical, logistical and visual factors. Key elements include:

Type of property A new build provides a blank canvas for easier installation. In contrast, renovation work usually includes lifting old floors, levelling uneven subfloors, or working around challenging features like fireplaces or fixed furniture, all of which can add time and money.

Project scale and layout Large open-plan areas can benefit from economies of scale, particularly in terms of supply and labour. However, smaller or complex rooms (with alcoves, stairs, or irregular shapes) often need more cutting, trimming and detail, which can increase waste and labour costs.