The Real Question Behind Flooring Costs
If you’ve been staring at your worn-out floors and wondering what it will cost to replace them, you’re not alone. Most homeowners hit the same wall: endless quotes, confusing ranges, and no clear answer on what’s fair. Add in worries about hidden fees, labor vs. material breakdowns, and whether you’re overpaying, and the whole project can feel overwhelming. This post clears the fog. We’ll break down real costs, identify the factors that affect them, and provide guidance on how to make informed decisions. If you’re in Utah and considering new flooring, this guide will provide the clarity you need before making a commitment.
What we’ll cover
- Average flooring installation costs in 2025
- Price breakdown by material type
- Factors that drive costs up (or down)
- How long installation take
- Which flooring adds the most value to your home
- FAQs homeowners ask before committing
How Much Does Flooring Installation Cost in 2025?
The average homeowner can expect to pay between $3.80 and $12 per square foot for flooring installation in 2025. That range varies based on material, room size, and labor conditions.
Here’s the quick snapshot:
- Laminate: $3.80–$5.50 per sq. ft. installed
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP/LVT): $4.50–$7.00 per sq. ft. installed
- Carpet: $4.00–$6.50 per sq. ft. installed
- Engineered Wood: $6.00–$9.00 per sq. ft. installed
- Solid Hardwood: $8.00–$12.00 per sq. ft. installed
- Rubber flooring (specialized): $7.00–$10.00 per sq. ft. installed
For a 500 sq. ft. project, the total could range from $2,000 on the low end to $6,000+ on the high end, depending on your choices.
Breaking Down Labor vs. Materials
One of the most significant sources of confusion is what’s included in a quote. Some companies blur the lines, leaving you unsure about actual costs. Here’s what to expect:
- Materials: 50–70% of the cost (type of flooring, quality, brand).
- Labor: 30–50% of the cost (prep, removal of old flooring, cutting, fitting, and finishing).
- Extras: Subfloor repair, furniture moving, custom stairs installation, or disposal fees.
At Accent Flooring, we separate these clearly so homeowners know exactly what they’re paying for. No guesswork.
Factors That Affect Flooring Costs
Not every project is priced the same, even if you pick the same flooring type. Costs shift because of:
- Room size: Larger rooms have economies of scale; smaller rooms often cost more per square foot.
- Subfloor condition: Repairs, leveling, or moisture barriers add to the bill.
- Removal of old flooring: Carpet tear-outs are fast. Old glued hardwood? Not so much.
- Custom stairs: Stairs are complex, especially if custom-built. Many shops outsource, but Accent Flooring builds them in-house for precision and cost-efficiency.
- Geography: Labor rates in Utah differ from California or New York.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Homeowners often worry about disruption. Timelines vary, but here’s a practical guide:
- Laminate, LVP, Carpet: 1–2 days per average room
- Engineered Wood: 2–4 days for multiple rooms
- Solid Hardwood: 4–7 days, including sanding and finishing
- Stairs: Adds 1–2 days depending on complexity
The good news is, professional installers should walk you through a clear schedule up front so you’re not left guessing.
Which Flooring Adds the Most Value to Your Home?
If resale value is top of mind, the data is precise:
- Solid hardwood offers the highest return, typically yielding a 70–80% ROI.
- Engineered wood and LVP are strong contenders, adding modern appeal at lower costs.
- Carpet is cozy but adds little to resale value, though it works well for comfort and rentals.
What this really means is your choice should balance personal lifestyle with future value. If you’re upgrading your forever home, invest in what you’ll love living with.
Why Trust Accent Flooring for Your Project?
With over 30 years of multi-generational experience, we’ve worked on thousands of homes in Utah. We don’t cut corners with cheap materials or rush projects. Our team designs, supplies, and installs everything from hardwood to custom stairs built right here in Utah – no outsourcing, no middlemen. Every project comes with a 1-year workmanship warranty because we stand behind our work.
Learn more about our company and see why Utah homeowners trust us.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Choosing flooring is a big decision, and the cost questions are only part of the story. The next step is getting a personalized estimate for your home.
✔️ Schedule a free consultation with Accent Flooring and get clarity on costs before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cheapest type of flooring?
Laminate and basic carpet are typically the most budget-friendly options. Laminate can cost as little as $3.80 per square foot installed, while carpet often starts at around $4.00 per square foot. The trade-off is durability and long-term performance. Laminate and carpet are great options for quick refreshes, rental properties, or families seeking affordability. For those planning to stay in their home long-term, LVP offers a balance between cost and resilience, starting just a little higher but lasting much longer.
Does new flooring add value to my home?
Yes. New flooring can significantly impact a home's resale appeal and value. Hardwood floors remain the gold standard for homebuyers, often returning 70–80% of their cost at resale. Engineered wood and LVP are also strong options, as they provide a modern, updated look without the higher installation costs. Even if you don’t plan to sell right away, new flooring improves livability, making the space feel clean, updated, and well cared for - all factors that attract buyers when the time comes.
How much does it cost to add heated floors?
Radiant heating beneath your flooring adds comfort and luxury, but it comes with additional cost. Expect to pay around $10–$15 per sq. ft. on top of your base installation. Heated flooring works best under tile, engineered wood, or certain types of vinyl, and it’s especially popular in bathrooms, basements, and homes in cold climates. While it won’t directly increase resale value in the same way hardwood does, it’s considered a premium upgrade that makes your home more attractive and comfortable.
Do flooring companies include the removal of old flooring in their quotes?
Not always. This is one of the most common areas where homeowners are surprised by hidden charges. Some companies list removal as an extra line item or don’t mention it until the job starts. Costs can range from $1 to $4 per square foot, depending on the type of flooring being removed. At Accent Flooring, we ensure the scope is clear from the start, including the removal of old floors, subfloor preparation, and disposal if necessary. Transparency matters.
Which flooring lasts the longest?
Solid hardwood has the most extended lifespan, often lasting 50–100 years with proper maintenance. It can be refinished multiple times, making it a true investment floor. Engineered wood typically lasts 20–30 years, depending on the thickness of the wear layer. LVP has surged in popularity due to its extreme durability against water and scratches, often lasting 15–25 years in active households. Carpet has the shortest lifespan, typically lasting 8–10 years before showing significant wear. When longevity is the goal, hardwood is the best choice. However, for families seeking resilience at a lower price point, LVP is a smart option.
Upgrade Your Home with Confidence
Replacing flooring isn’t just about cost. It’s about investing in a space you love to live in and making choices that stand the test of time. With the proper guidance, you can avoid hidden fees, pick materials that fit your lifestyle, and trust the installation will be done right.
If you’re ready to elevate your home, Accent Flooring is here to help with expert design, supply, and installation. Start with a free consultation and see why homeowners across Utah choose us for flooring that lasts.
Browse our services, or explore our gallery to find what you need.
- How Much Should I Pay for Someone to Put in Flooring? - September 11, 2025
