LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 01, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Fit Hardwood Flooring?
Solid Hardwood Flooring installation
Hardwood flooring offers durability and a premium finish, but installation costs can vary significantly depending on the type of wood, the condition of the subfloor, and how the floor needs to be fixed.
This guide explains how much it typically costs to fit hardwood flooring in the UK, what is usually included in installation prices, and why hardwood fitting often costs more than other flooring types. It is written to help you budget realistically before committing.
If you are still comparing flooring options overall, start with:
Average Cost to Fit Hardwood Flooring (Installation Only)
Hardwood flooring installation is usually priced per square metre. The figures below reflect labour-only installation costs, assuming reasonable site conditions.
Typical installation costs:
Solid hardwood flooring:
£45 – £70 per m²
Engineered hardwood flooring:
£30 – £50 per m²
These figures are guides only. Preparation work, fixing method, and detailing can move the final price up or down.
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What’s Included in Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs
A professional hardwood flooring installation quote typically includes:
What is not always included is subfloor preparation, moisture protection, or specialist acoustic underlay. These items should be assessed before installation begins.
Solid Hardwood vs Engineered Hardwood – Cost Differences
Costs vary based on span, loads above, access, and finish level.
Most people under-budget by forgetting engineering + Building Control + making good.
We’ve broken this down clearly in our cost guide with a real example.
Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of timber. It is sensitive to moisture and movement, which means:
- Higher preparation standards are required
- Acclimatisation time is essential
- Fixing methods are more labour-intensive
As a result, solid hardwood usually sits at the higher end of installation costs.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood is built in layers, making it more dimensionally stable. This allows:
- Greater tolerance to temperature and humidity changes
- Compatibility with underfloor heating (when specified correctly)
- More flexible installation methods
Installation costs are typically lower than solid hardwood, especially where floating or glue-down systems are used.
For broader comparisons across flooring materials, see:
👉 Flooring Types and Installation Considerations
Subfloor Preparation Costs (Major Cost Driver)
Hardwood flooring requires a stable, flat, and dry subfloor. If the subfloor does not meet tolerance, preparation work may be required.
Common preparation costs include:
Latex levelling compounds:
£10 – £20 per m²
Minor timber floor repairs:
varies by condition
Moisture barriers / DPM layers:
£5 – £10 per m²
Skipping preparation may reduce upfront cost but significantly increases the risk of movement, gaps, or floor failure later.
Does Underfloor Heating Affect Hardwood Installation Cost?
Yes. Installing hardwood flooring over underfloor heating requires:
- Compatible flooring products
- Correct underlay or adhesive systems
- Careful temperature control during installation
Engineered hardwood is usually more suitable for UFH than solid wood. Installation costs may be higher due to additional checks and preparation.
Why Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs Vary
Two hardwood floors of the same size can have very different installation costs. Key factors include:
- Subfloor condition and flatness
- Moisture risk (especially ground floors)
- Fixing method required
- Room shape and access
- Finish level around skirting and thresholds
This is why per-square-metre prices should be treated as starting points, not guarantees.
Real questions London homeowners ask before fit a hardwood flooring
FAQ
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Is hardwood flooring more expensive to install than laminate?
Yes. Hardwood requires stricter subfloor tolerances, more complex fixing methods, and greater attention to moisture control. These factors increase installation time and cost.
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Can hardwood flooring be installed in flats?
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Does hardwood flooring need to be glued or nailed down?
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How long does hardwood flooring installation take?
Ready to Fit Your Flooring?
Hardwood flooring can deliver excellent long-term value when installed correctly. The key is understanding the preparation and installation requirements before committing on price alone.
If you are comparing options:
Understand overall flooring costs
👉 Cost to Fit Flooring in London
Compare flooring materials
👉 Flooring Types and Installation Considerations
Estimate your project
👉 Floor Installation Calculator
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