Remodeling your floors is one of the most transformative home improvement projects you can undertake. Whether you’re upgrading outdated tiles, switching to hardwood, or adding warmth with carpet, a flooring remodel enhances your home’s aesthetic, comfort, and value. But before you start ripping up floorboards or shopping for samples, there are critical things you need to consider.
From understanding the floor remodeling cost to selecting the best materials, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan and execute your project with confidence.
Why Consider a Flooring Remodel?
A floor remodel isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function, durability, and lifestyle. Old or damaged flooring can lead to:
- Increased allergens
- Tripping hazards
- Water damage
- Reduced property value
Updating your floors can enhance indoor air quality, improve your home’s appeal, and even cut down on maintenance.
Types of Flooring to Consider
The first decision in any flooring remodel is choosing the right material. Each has its pros and cons based on cost, durability, and style.
1. Hardwood Flooring
- Timeless, elegant appearance
- Long-lasting with proper care
- Cost: $6–$12 per square foot (materials only)
2. Engineered Wood
- Real wood veneer over plywood
- More moisture-resistant than solid hardwood
- Cost-effective alternative
3. Laminate Flooring
- Mimics wood, tile, or stone
- Budget-friendly and scratch-resistant
- Great for high-traffic areas
4. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
- Waterproof, durable, and realistic look
- Ideal for kitchens, basements, and bathrooms
5. Tile (Ceramic or Porcelain)
- Excellent water resistance
- Best for bathrooms and kitchens
- Requires skilled labor
6. Carpet
- Cozy and sound-dampening
- Needs frequent cleaning
- Cost: $3–$7 per square foot installed
7. Bamboo or Cork
- Eco-friendly choices
- Unique aesthetics
- Moderate durability
Calculating Your Floor Remodeling Cost
The floor remodeling cost depends on several factors:
✅ Key Cost Factors
- Flooring material chosen
- Square footage of your space
- Labor charges
- Subfloor repairs
- Disposal of old flooring
- Trim and transition pieces
💵 Average Costs (Including Labor)
| Flooring Type | Cost per Sq Ft Installed |
| Hardwood | $8–$15 |
| Laminate | $3–$7 |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank | $4–$8 |
| Carpet | $3–$7 |
| Tile | $7–$15 |
Tip: Always budget an additional 10–15% for unexpected issues and waste.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While DIY flooring can save money, it’s not always the best choice—especially for materials like tile or hardwood.
✅ DIY Pros:
- Lower labor costs
- Flexible timeline
❌ DIY Cons:
- Higher risk of installation errors
- Longer project duration
- May void product warranties
For most homeowners, hiring a professional ensures your remodel flooring project is up to code and built to last.
Timeline: How Long Does a Flooring Remodel Take?
Depending on the scope and material, a flooring remodel can take anywhere from a single day to over a week.
📅 Estimated Timeframes:
- Laminate or LVP: 1–2 days
- Hardwood: 3–5 days (plus finishing time)
- Tile: 3–7 days (includes curing grout)
- Carpet: 1 day
Add extra time for removing furniture, acclimating materials, and clearing debris.
Preparing Your Home for a Flooring Remodel
Proper prep work is key to a smooth flooring update.
🛠️ Pre-Installation Checklist:
- Clear furniture and fragile items
- Remove baseboards (if necessary)
- Ensure pets and kids are out of the way
- Let new flooring acclimate for 48–72 hours
- Prepare for dust and noise
Planning ahead keeps your home clean and prevents project delays.
Choosing the Right Flooring Contractor
If you’re hiring help, vetting your contractor is essential.
🔍 Questions to Ask:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can I see examples of past flooring remodels?
- What’s included in your estimate?
- How long will the project take?
- Do you offer a warranty?
Ask for a detailed quote and check reviews before signing a contract.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Floor Remodel
A successful flooring remodel is all about planning. Here are some missteps to avoid:
- Skipping subfloor repairs
- Choosing the wrong flooring for the room
- Underestimating the floor remodeling cost
- Ignoring moisture levels
- Not accounting for furniture or appliances
Maximizing ROI with Your Flooring Remodel
Certain floors offer better resale value than others.
💡 Tips to Increase ROI:
- Choose neutral tones for mass appeal
- Prioritize durability and ease of maintenance
- Keep receipts and warranties for buyers
- Match flooring style to the home’s character
Hardwood floors, in particular, have a high return on investment.
Sustainable Flooring Options
If you’re eco-conscious, consider sustainable materials during your remodel.
- Bamboo – fast-growing and renewable
- Cork – biodegradable and naturally antimicrobial
- Reclaimed wood – repurposed and unique
- Recycled tile or rubber – reduces landfill waste
Ask suppliers about certifications like FSC or GreenGuard.
Is Now the Right Time to Remodel Flooring?
Trends in home improvement, especially post-pandemic, show increased demand for low-maintenance, comfortable flooring. If your current floors are:
- Cracked or warped
- Hard to clean
- Noisy or uneven
- Out of style
…then it’s probably time for a flooring remodel.
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Remodel Right
A floor remodel is an investment that pays off in both comfort and home value. By carefully planning your budget, materials, and timeline—and by understanding the true floor remodeling cost—you can avoid surprises and achieve a beautiful result.
Whether you go for luxury vinyl, classic hardwood, or modern tile, your new flooring will redefine your living space for years to come.
