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LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 02, 2026

How Much Does It Cost to Install Laminate Flooring?

Laminate Flooring Fitting

Laminate flooring is one of the most cost-effective flooring options in the UK, but installation costs can still vary depending on subfloor condition, underlay choice, and room complexity.

This guide explains how much it typically costs to install laminate flooring, what is usually included in fitting prices, and what factors can increase or reduce the final cost. It is written to help you budget realistically before committing.

For an overall view of flooring budgets, start here:

👉 Cost to fit Flooring in London

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Average Cost to Install Laminate Flooring (Installation Only)

Laminate flooring installation is usually priced per square metre. The figures below reflect labour-only installation costs, assuming reasonable site conditions.

Typical installation costs:

Laminate flooring fitting cost:

£20 – £30 per m²

These figures are guide ranges. Preparation work, underlay requirements, and finishing detail can affect the final price.

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What’s Included in Laminate Flooring Fitting Costs

A professional laminate flooring installation quote typically includes:

Layout planning and setting-out
Floating installation using the click-lock system
Expansion gaps around walls and fixed points
Cutting around doorways and obstacles
Basic trims and threshold finishing

Subfloor levelling, specialist acoustic underlay, moisture barriers, and uplift of existing flooring are often not included and should be confirmed separately.

Why Underlay Choice Matters for Laminate Flooring

Underlay plays a major role in laminate flooring performance and cost.

Acoustic underlay (flats)

In flats, acoustic underlay is often required to reduce impact noise. This can increase material and installation cost but is essential for compliance with building rules.

Moisture barrier underlay

Ground floors and concrete subfloors may require an integrated moisture barrier to protect the laminate core.

Comfort and durability

Low-quality underlay can lead to hollow sound, movement, or joint failure over time.

Subfloor Preparation Costs (Often Overlooked)

Laminate flooring requires a flat and stable subfloor. Even small dips or ridges can cause movement, noise, or joint damage.

Typical preparation costs include:

Latex levelling compound:

£10 – £20 per m²

Minor subfloor repairs:

varies by condition

Moisture barrier or DPM layer:

£5 – £10 per m²

Skipping preparation may reduce upfront cost but increases the risk of problems later.

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Laminate Flooring in Flats vs Houses

Installation costs can differ depending on property type.

Flats: often require acoustic underlay and stricter preparation
Houses: usually fewer acoustic restrictions but ground floors may need moisture protection

These factors can affect both material choice and installation cost.

Why Laminate Flooring Installation Costs Vary

Two laminate floors of the same size can have very different installation costs due to:

– Subfloor flatness and condition

– Underlay specification

– Room shape and number of cuts

– Access and furniture clearance

– Finishing detail at skirting and thresholds

Per-square-metre prices should always be treated as starting points, not fixed totals.

Real questions London homeowners ask before fit Laminate flooring

FAQ

Ready to Fit Your Flooring?

Laminate flooring offers good value when installed on a properly prepared base with the correct underlay. The key is understanding preparation and compliance requirements before choosing purely on price.

To continue planning:

Understand overall flooring costs

👉  Cost to Fit Flooring in London

Compare flooring materials

👉  Flooring Types and Installation Considerations

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👉  Floor Installation Calculator

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