How Much Does it Cost to Replace Carpet with Hardwood Flooring?

If you are thinking about replacing carpet with hardwood and need help to plan everything and estimate total expenses, then this article is for you. 

We will talk about the cost of hardwood flooring as well as the labor cost in the US and share some tips to pay less. We also talk about three more affordable alternatives that work just as well as solid hardwood. But first…

Why Replace Carpet with Hardwood Flooring?

To put it simply, hardwood offers more than carpet. Its timeless look will never go out of style; with proper maintenance, it will look great for years to come. 

On the other hand, even high-quality carpets need to be replaced every 10 years or so. Compared to hardwood, carpet is a magnet for stains and wears out quickly, especially if placed in high-traffic areas. Replacing carpet flooring with hardwood is considered a major upgrade for your home.

Also, hardwood flooring offers a higher return on investment than many other flooring types and can add significant monetary value to your home. Many home buyers are looking for hardwood flooring when they’re searching for a new home, and they’re willing to pay more for it. 

Another great thing about hardwood is that it can be refinished. Carpets can stain and show wear over time, and it’s hard to undo the damage once it’s done. Refinishing can make hardwood floors look new again.

What’s the Cost to Replace Carpet with Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood’s natural beauty and value come with a price tag, especially when it comes to solid hardwood floors. The cost to replace carpet with hardwood, however, involves many factors: the scope of the job, the type of wood floor you choose, and the associated installation expenses. 

Don’t worry, we’ll take you through these costs and give you some helpful hints to save money along the way!

Cost of Solid Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors start at around $3 per square foot for common wood species and can exceed $15 per square foot for some exotic wood types. You can check our list of the most popular wood species on the market, including prices for each. 

If you are going for Brazilian Cherry or if you’re drawn to Ebony flooring, you’re going to be paying more than you would for, say, domestic Oak. 

Cost of Hardwood Installation

Hardwood installation is more challenging than, say, laminate or vinyl flooring. 

While it is possible to DIY, hiring a professional for hardwood installation can help you avoid costly mistakes, especially with nail-down or glue-down installation. 

The cost of hardwood installation can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot and will depend on a lot of factors like location and the flooring type. And of course, installing intricate wood floor designs and wood floor patterns could send installation costs higher. 

How to Save Money when Replacing Carpet with Hardwood

Just because hardwood isn’t the easiest flooring to install doesn’t mean you have to leave it all to the professionals! There are many ways to keep your wood flooring costs down if you’re willing to do a little of your own labor. 

If you’re looking to save on installation costs, talk to your local flooring retailer about doing a partial DIY. In some cases, you can cut costs by moving the furniture off of the area to be replaced. 

You may be able to save even more by pulling up and hauling away your existing carpet before the installers arrive. Removing old carpet and preparing the subfloor typically costs around $1 to $2 per square foot.

What are the Alternatives to Solid Hardwood Flooring

If you still haven’t decided on hardwood and want something more affordable or you need a more waterproof option, these alternatives might be a better option for you. 

Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood is a great option if you love the look of solid hardwood but need something more budget-friendly and slightly more durable. Depending on the wood type and grade, you can get engineered hardwood from $3 to $12 per square foot.

It features a real hardwood veneer over a base of high-quality plywood, making it more stable and resistant to changes in humidity and temperature. Engineered hardwood is more suitable for areas where solid hardwood might not be ideal, such as basements or mudrooms. 

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is another cost-effective alternative that mimics the appearance of real wood. 

It is made of multiple layers fused together, which makes it extremely durable and resistant to scratches and dents. Laminate is also easier to install and maintain, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas in your home. 

With prices ranging from $1 to $5 per square foot, laminate flooring offers an affordable solution without sacrificing style. While it is not as waterproof as vinyl flooring, there are water-resistant laminates on the market that will work much better than hardwood.

Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring, also known as luxury vinyl plank (LVP), is perfect for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. 

It’s waterproof, highly durable, and available in a variety of styles that closely resemble real wood. Vinyl plank flooring is easy to clean and maintain, making it an excellent option for busy households. 

Typically, vinyl plank flooring costs between $2 and $7 per square foot. 

Conclusion

Replacing carpet with hardwood flooring can significantly enhance both the aesthetic appeal and value of your home. While the initial investment in hardwood is higher, its durability and timeless elegance often make it a worthwhile choice. 

However, if the cost is an issue or if you need flooring that can handle more moisture, alternatives like engineered hardwood, laminate, and vinyl plank flooring can offer similar visual benefits without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ve explored the various costs associated with replacing carpet with hardwood flooring, including both materials and installation. We’ve also discussed practical tips to help you save money on installation by taking on some DIY tasks, like removing old carpet and preparing the subfloor yourself.