Everything You Need To Know About The Cost Of Oak Hardwood Floors

Oak hardwood floors are an elegant and timeless option for any home. The cost of oak hardwood floors varies depending on the variety and grade of the wood, as well as the installation method and finish. Understanding the factors that affect the cost of oak hardwood floors will help you make an informed decision when selecting a new floor.

Types of Oak Hardwood Floors

The type of oak hardwood floors you choose will affect the cost. There are two main varieties of oak: red and white. Red oak is a more popular choice, with a reddish-brown color and a distinctive grain pattern. White oak has a light tan color and a tighter grain pattern. Both types of oak are durable and long lasting.

Grades of Oak Hardwood Floors

The grade of oak hardwood floors will also affect the cost. The highest grade is select, followed by No. 1 common and No. 2 common. Select grade oak has the fewest knots, is the lightest in color, and has the most uniform grain pattern. No. 1 common has more knots and is slightly darker in color. No. 2 common has even more knots, is darker in color, and has more variation in grain pattern.

Installation Method

The installation method will also affect the cost of oak hardwood floors. The most common installation methods are nail-down, glue-down, and floating. Nail-down is the most expensive option, as it requires specialized tools and expertise. Glue-down is less expensive, but can be more difficult to do on your own. Floating is the least expensive option and is the most DIY friendly.

Finishes

The finish of your oak hardwood floors will also affect the cost. The most common finishes are unfinished, prefinished, and engineered. Unfinished floors require sanding and staining on site, making them more expensive. Prefinished floors are more expensive up front, but require less labor and time for installation. Engineered floors are the most expensive option, but are the most durable and require the least amount of maintenance.

Average Costs

The average cost of oak hardwood floors can range from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type, grade, installation method, and finish. Unfinished floors typically cost less than prefinished floors, while engineered floors are typically the most expensive. Labor costs will also add to the overall cost of the floor.

Conclusion

Oak hardwood floors are a beautiful and timeless addition to any home. The cost of oak hardwood floors will vary depending on the variety and grade of the wood, as well as the installation method and finish. Understanding the factors that affect the cost of oak hardwood floors will help you make an informed decision when selecting a new floor.