Vinyl plank flooring has exploded in popularity in recent years. It is often used as an alternative to hardwood flooring, and it comes in various colors, textures, and patterns.
Vinyl plank flooring is relatively easy to install, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want to update their floors without breaking the bank. It’s also known for being durable and low maintenance, which can further help ease costs over the years.
However, in this article we want to discuss specifically the costs associated with installing vinyl plank flooring. Knowing the costs and what to expect can help you determine whether or not vinyl plank flooring fits within your budget.
Our goal with this article is to help you better understand the breakdown of costs. What adds to the total price? What makes the total price cheaper? We’ll discuss things like:
- Hiring a professional vs DIY
- Size and complexity of the rooms the flooring will be installed in
- Quality of the materials you choose
FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE COST OF VINYL PLANK FLOORING INSTALLATION
Type and Quality of Vinyl Plank Flooring
One of the most significant factors that affect the cost of vinyl plank flooring installation is the type and quality of vinyl plank flooring itself. The higher the quality, the more expensive it will be.
The price range for vinyl plank flooring can vary dramatically depending on factors such as thickness of the wear layer, and style. The wear layer is the final layer of vinyl planks and is made of a clear, urethane coating, it’s what gives the material its scratch and wear resistant properties. 12mil is a standard option for residential spaces, but you can go up to 20mil+ for higher traffic areas. So vinyl planks with a thick wear layer will cost more than planks with a thin wear layer.
Another consideration is the composition of the core layer. You generally have two options here:
- Core layer made of Wood Plastic Composite (WPC)
- Core layer made of Stone Plastic Composite (SPC)
WPC is a compound of PVC & wood while SPC is a compound of calcium carbonate, PVC, and plasticizers. SPC is far more durable and can withstand nearly ~2000PSI, WPC can withstand around ~400PSI.
It is essential to determine your needs prior to buying a particular type of vinyl plank flooring, as this is where you can really save on costs. For example, a low traffic area will generally not require planks composed of SPC with a 20mil+ wear layer!
Size and Complexity of Room/Area to be Installed
Another factor that affects the cost of vinyl plank flooring installation is the size and complexity of the room or area to be installed. If you have a larger room or an irregularly shaped area, it will require more time, effort, and materials to install than a smaller or straightforward space.
This means you’ll need to pay for additional labor costs if you hire professionals to do it for you. On top of this, installing vinyl plank flooring around corners or in areas with obstacles will also require additional planning and cutting which may increase material costs.
Additional Materials Needed (e.g., Underlayment, Adhesive, Transition Strips)
Other materials required during installation may also influence the total cost. These can include things like the underlayment, which provides cushioning or further sound proofing beneath your new floor.
Depending on the type of install you opt for (floating vs glued down for example, can mean that adhesives all of a sudden become an included expense.
Depending on your choice of underlayment material – foam padding or cork – and the adhesive used, the overall cost of materials can vary widely.
Labor Costs
Labor costs play a significant role in determining the total cost of vinyl plank flooring installation. If you decide to hire professionals for the installation, ensure that their rates are reasonable and that they have experience with vinyl plank flooring installation. The complexity of the job will affect how long it takes and how much it will cost you.
You should get estimates from several contractors before settling on one to determine an average price range for labor costs. Additionally, doing a DIY installation may seem like a way to save on labor costs, but keep in mind that it requires some technical knowledge and experience to install vinyl plank flooring correctly – mistakes can be costly to fix long-term.
VINYL PLANK FLOORING INSTALLATION COST BREAKDOWN
Average Cost per Square Foot for Materials
The average cost per square foot for vinyl plank flooring materials can range anywhere from $2 to $10 per square foot. Lower-quality options can be found on the lower end of this range while high-end options (e.g., luxury vinyl tile) can exceed $10 per square foot. In general, you should expect to pay around $2-$3 per square foot for mid-range quality vinyl plank flooring that looks good and is durable enough for everyday use in most homes.
Average Cost per Square Foot for Labor
The average cost per square foot for labor when installing vinyl plank flooring will vary, mainly due to contractor experience level but typically ranges between $1-$5 per square foot.
While DIY installation can save you money, it’s important to understand the potential risks of laying vinyl plank flooring without the help of a professional. If you don’t have a good grasp on what you’re doing, there is a chance of wasting money on materials, as well as damage to different parts of your home – such as baseboards, drywall, etc.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for vinyl plank flooring installation, you should also factor in additional costs such as the removal of old flooring, disposal fees for any waste materials, and potential repair costs if your subfloor needs to be fixed before installation. Depending on your specific situation, these costs can add several hundred dollars (or more) to your overall cost.
To get a better understanding of the total cost associated with installing vinyl plank flooring in your home or business, it’s best to get a detailed estimate from a licensed contractor that takes into account all of the variables involved. This will give you an accurate picture of what you can expect to spend and help ensure that you don’t run into any surprises along the way.
TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY ON VINYL PLANK FLOORING INSTALLATION
Installing vinyl plank flooring can be a great way to improve your home’s look and value. However, it can also be an expensive project. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on vinyl plank flooring installation without sacrificing quality or style.
Comparison shopping for materials and labor costs
The first step in saving money on your vinyl plank flooring installation is to research costs. Make sure you compare prices from different suppliers for the type of vinyl plank flooring you want. You may find that prices vary widely between vendors, even for the same product.
Be sure to factor in delivery costs as well when comparing prices. You should also shop around for labor costs by getting quotes from multiple contractors.
Don’t just choose the first contractor you find – spend some time researching and comparing prices before making a decision. Keep in mind that the cheapest quote may not always be the best choice; make sure you consider each contractor’s experience, reputation, and references before hiring them.
Timing your installation during sales or off-seasons
If possible, plan your vinyl plank flooring installation during times when materials might go on sale or when contractors might be less busy.
By doing your research, comparing prices, and timing your installation carefully, you can save money on your vinyl plank flooring installation while still achieving the look and quality you want for your home. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take a proactive approach when it comes to getting the best value for your investment.
CONCLUSION
The type and quality of the flooring, size and complexity of the room or area to be installed, additional materials needed such as underlayment and adhesive, and labor costs are all important considerations that can impact your overall cost.
While it’s important to have an idea of how much it will cost to install new vinyl plank floors in your home or business space, it’s equally important to consider long-term value. Vinyl plank flooring is durable, easy to maintain and can add significant value to your property.
Investing in new floors is always going to involve some degree of upfront expense, However, by following our guidelines in this article you will hopefully be able to get a good sense of what realistic expectations should be moving forward with any project related to upgrading your floors with vinyl plank flooring!