When considering new flooring for your home in 2024, understanding the cost implications is crucial. Flooring is typically sold by the square metre (m²), a unit of area measurement. One square metre equals the area of a square with sides of one metre. This standardised measurement helps in comparing different flooring options and calculating the amount needed for your space.
Understanding Different Flooring Types and Their Costs
Solid Wood Flooring (£50/m²)
Solid wood flooring, known for its durability and classic appearance, costs around £50 per m² on average. It’s made from single pieces of wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting choice.
Engineered Wood Flooring (£35/m²)
Engineered wood flooring, at approximately £35 per m², offers a similar aesthetic to solid wood but at a more affordable price. It consists of a real wood top layer bonded to multiple layers of other wood, providing stability and resistance to changes in temperature and humidity.
Laminate Flooring (£15/m²)
Laminate flooring, a cost-effective option at around £15 per m², is composed of a photographic layer that mimics wood or stone, atop a dense core board. It’s known for its durability and ease of installation.
Stone Flooring (£45/m²)
Stone flooring, with an average cost of £45 per m², offers a unique and natural look. Each piece has distinct patterns, and the material is known for its longevity and robustness.
Porcelain Tile Flooring (£70/m²)
Porcelain tile flooring, the most expensive option at around £70 per m², is highly durable and water-resistant. It’s ideal for areas with high moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Ceramic Tile Flooring (£35/m²)
Ceramic tile flooring, priced similarly to engineered wood at about £35 per m², is versatile and comes in a variety of designs and colours. It’s easier to cut and install compared to porcelain tiles.
Linoleum Flooring (£15/m²)
Linoleum flooring, also around £15 per m², is made from natural materials, making it an eco-friendly option. It’s durable and comes in a range of colours and patterns.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) (£20/m²)
Luxury vinyl flooring, or LVT, costing approximately £20 per m², is known for its realistic designs and textures that mimic more expensive flooring types. It’s water-resistant and comfortable underfoot.
Carpet (£15/m²)
Carpet, at an average price of £15 per m², offers warmth and comfort. It comes in various textures, colours, and materials, suitable for different rooms and styles.
Price Variation Based on Style and Quality
Remember, intricate styles like herringbone and chevron will cost more. Prices also vary based on the quality range – low, mid, and high-end options for each flooring type.
Comparative Analysis
Here’s a comparison of the above flooring types:
| Flooring Type | Pros | Cons | Avg. Price/m² |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Wood | Durable, classic look | Higher cost, maintenance | £50 |
| Engineered Wood | Affordable, stable | Not as robust as solid wood | £35 |
| Laminate | Cost-effective, durable | Less authentic look | £15 |
| Stone | Unique, long-lasting | Expensive, hard surface | £45 |
| Porcelain Tile | Water-resistant, durable | Most expensive, hard to cut | £70 |
| Ceramic Tile | Versatile, easier to install | Less durable than porcelain | £35 |
| Linoleum | Eco-friendly, durable | Less popular, style limitations | £15 |
| Luxury Vinyl (LVT) | Realistic designs, water-resistant | Less premium feel | £20 |
| Carpet | Comfortable, varied options | Requires maintenance, less durable | £15 |
Measuring Your Area Correctly
Measuring your area correctly is essential to ensure you purchase the right amount of flooring. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Gather Your Tools: You will need a tape measure, a calculator, a notepad, and possibly a helper for larger rooms.
- Measure Length and Width: Measure the length and width of your room at the widest points. If the room isn’t a perfect rectangle, divide it into rectangular sections and measure each section separately.
- Calculate Area: Multiply the length by the width for each section to get the area in square metres (m²). For example, if a section is 5 metres long and 4 metres wide, the area is 20 m² (5m x 4m = 20m²).
- Add Extra for Waste: It’s always wise to purchase a little extra to account for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs. Generally, add 10% extra to your total area measurement for waste. If your total area is 20 m², you would purchase 22 m² of flooring (20 m² + 10% = 22 m²).
- Consider the Layout: Take into account any unusual room features like fireplaces, islands, or recessed areas. Measure these separately and add them to your total area.
- Sketch a Floor Plan: Drawing a rough sketch of the room with measurements can help visualise the space and ensure accuracy. Label each section with its respective area.
- Double-Check Measurements: It’s vital to double-check your measurements for accuracy. A small mistake in measurement can lead to purchasing too much or too little flooring.
Additional New Flooring Costs
Beyond the cost of the flooring itself, consider the costs of accessories like underlay and skirting, and fitting costs, which can vary depending on the complexity of the job.
Tips on Saving on New Flooring Costs
Saving on the cost of new flooring is possible with strategic planning and smart shopping. Here are more tips to help you reduce expenses:
- Shop Around and Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Explore different retailers, both online and in physical stores, to compare prices. Sometimes local suppliers offer better deals than larger chains.
- Buy During Sales or Off-Season: Timing your purchase to coincide with sales events like Black Friday, end-of-season sales, or clearance sales can lead to significant savings. Off-season periods may also offer lower prices.
- Bulk Buying for Larger Projects: If you’re planning to refloor multiple rooms, consider buying in bulk. Some retailers offer discounts for larger purchases.
- Choose Alternatives to Premium Brands: Look for less expensive alternatives that still meet your quality and aesthetic needs. Mid-range brands often offer similar styles and durability at a lower cost.
- Consider Remnants or Discontinued Lines: Retailers may sell off remnants or discontinued lines at a reduced price. These can be ideal for smaller areas or single rooms.
- DIY Installation: If you’re handy, consider installing the flooring yourself. This can save on labour costs, which can be a significant part of the overall expense. However, ensure you have the right tools and knowledge before embarking on this task.
- Maintain Existing Floors: Sometimes, refurbishing your existing floors can be more cost-effective than replacing them. Sanding and resealing wood floors or deep cleaning carpets can rejuvenate your floors without the cost of full replacement.
- Opt for Less Expensive Underlay: The underlay can significantly impact the total cost. Opt for a less expensive underlay if your chosen flooring type doesn’t require a premium option.
- Use Price Matching: Some retailers offer price matching if you find the same product cheaper elsewhere. Take advantage of this policy where available.
- Look for Online Deals and Coupons: Online retailers often provide discounts and coupons. Signing up for newsletters or alerts from your favourite flooring stores can keep you informed about upcoming deals.
- Consider the Total Cost of Ownership: When choosing flooring, consider its durability and maintenance costs. A slightly more expensive option that lasts longer and is cheaper to maintain could be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Recycle or Sell Old Flooring: If you’re replacing old but still usable flooring, consider selling it or offering it for free to DIY enthusiasts. This can offset some of your new flooring costs.
By incorporating these tips, you can make more informed and budget-friendly decisions for your new flooring in 2024.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flooring involves balancing cost, style, and practicality. By understanding the different options and their costs, you can make an informed decision that suits your budget and taste.
—
FAQ
How Is Flooring Typically Priced?
Flooring is commonly sold by the square metre (m²), a unit of area measurement. This standardisation aids in comparing costs across different flooring options and calculating the amount needed for specific spaces.
What Affects the Cost of Different Flooring Types?
The price of flooring varies based on the type and quality. For example, solid wood flooring averages around £50/m² due to its durability and classic appearance, while laminate flooring is more cost-effective at about £15/m².
Does the Style of Flooring Influence Its Price?
Yes, the style of flooring can significantly affect its price. Intricate designs like herringbone and chevron are generally more expensive. The cost also differs based on whether the flooring is low, mid, or high-end quality.
Are There Additional Costs to Consider When Installing New Flooring?
Apart from the base price of the flooring, additional costs include accessories like underlay and skirting, as well as fitting costs, which can vary depending on the job’s complexity.
How Can I Save Money on New Flooring?
To save on new flooring costs, consider shopping around, buying during sales, opting for bulk purchases for larger projects, choosing mid-range brands, and considering DIY installation. Additionally, maintaining existing floors or opting for less expensive underlay can also help reduce expenses.