Is It Cheaper to Install Hardwood or Laminate Flooring?
- Alex Mann, founder Floors Depot
- Aug 3
- 13 min read
Laminate flooring is usually cheaper to install than hardwood flooring. In most Canadian projects, laminate flooring costs about $2.50 to $8 per square foot installed, while hardwood flooring costs $9 to $25 per square foot installed. The difference comes down to material price, installation method, labour intensity, and floor preparation requirements. But the cheapest option upfront is not always the best long-term investment-hardwood may offer better resale value, a longer lifespan, and the ability to be refinished multiple times.
This article breaks down the real costs of hardwood and laminate flooring for Canadian homeowners, with specific references to Vancouver and Metro Vancouver pricing, condo requirements, and practical renovation decisions. Whether you own a detached home, a condo, or a rental property, this comparison will help you understand what you are actually paying for and which flooring option makes financial sense for your situation.
Here is what you will learn:
A detailed cost comparison of laminate, engineered hardwood, and solid hardwood flooring
How installation factors like subfloor condition, stairs, and condo sound ratings affect the final price
Long-term value differences including lifespan, maintenance, and resale impact
When laminate is the smarter financial choice and when hardwood is worth the higher upfront cost
Hidden costs that many homeowners overlook during renovation planning
Understanding Flooring Cost Fundamentals
When many homeowners compare hardwood and laminate flooring, they focus on the sticker price of the materials. But the true cost of a flooring project includes far more than what you pay per square foot at the store. Understanding the full picture-upfront installation costs versus long-term value-is essential for choosing flooring that fits both your budget and your goals.
Material Costs vs Installation Labour
Material costs and labour costs contribute differently to laminate and hardwood projects. Laminate flooring is manufactured with a high-density fiberboard core and a printed decorative surface, making it significantly less expensive to produce than natural wood. Most laminate uses a click-lock floating floor system, which means professional installation is faster and less labour-intensive. Labour costs for laminate typically run $1.50 to $3 per square foot.
Hardwood floor installation requires more skill, time, and precision. Solid hardwood may need to be nailed or stapled down, while engineered hardwood can be glued, floated, or nailed depending on the subfloor. Labour costs for hardwood installation average $4 to $10 per square foot, reflecting the increased installation complexity, layout planning, expansion gap management, and finishing work involved.
Short-Term vs Long-Term Cost Analysis
The initial investment tells only part of the story. Laminate flooring typically lasts 10 to 25 years, while hardwood floors can last 50 to 100 years with proper care. Solid hardwood can last 30 to 100 years and can be refinished multiple times to extend its lifespan. Laminate flooring cannot be refinished and must be replaced when damaged.
For Canadian homeowners planning to stay in a property long term, the cost-per-year calculation often favours hardwood despite the higher upfront cost. For short-term ownership, rental properties, or budget renovations, laminate is often a quick and budget-friendly option that delivers immediate value. Understanding these trade-offs is essential before comparing specific price ranges.
Hardwood vs Laminate Cost Comparison
With the fundamentals in place, here is what you can expect to pay for each flooring type in Canada, with pricing relevant to Vancouver and Metro Vancouver projects.
Laminate Flooring Installation Costs
Quality laminate flooring typically costs $3 to $6 per square foot for materials alone, though budget options start around $1 to $2 per square foot and premium water-resistant laminate can reach $5 to $8 per square foot. Labour for laminate installation runs $1.50 to $3 per square foot in most Metro Vancouver projects. Including underlay and basic subfloor preparation, total laminate flooring costs land at approximately $5 to $9 per square foot installed.
Popular laminate options for Canadian homes and condos include click-lock planks that mimic oak or hickory, water-resistant laminate for moisture-prone areas, and wider plank styles with enhanced wear layers. Laminate flooring is generally more cost-effective than hardwood flooring and remains a practical choice for bedrooms, secondary suites, and budget renovations.
Hardwood Flooring Installation Costs
Hardwood flooring costs $9 to $25 per square foot depending on species, plank size, and installation method. Solid hardwood typically starts around $8 per square foot for materials in common species like oak, while premium species such as walnut, hickory, or Brazilian cherry can push material costs to $13 to $18 or more per square foot. Engineered hardwood materials range from approximately $5 to $13 per square foot.
Labour costs for hardwood are higher due to the precision required. Nail-down, glue-down, and combination methods all take more time than floating floor installation. Site-finished versus prefinished hardwood also affects cost. Site-finished hardwood requires sanding, staining, and sealing on site, adding labour hours and material expense. Unfinished wood requires these extra steps, while prefinished hardwood arrives ready to install.
In Vancouver, engineered hardwood dominates because it handles the coastal climate's humidity fluctuations better than solid wood. Metro Vancouver labour rates and material delivery tend to run 15 to 25 percent above national Canadian averages due to the high cost of living and demand for skilled trades.
Cost Comparison Table
Flooring Type | Material Cost (CAD/sq ft) | Installation Cost (CAD/sq ft) | Total Installed Cost (CAD/sq ft) | Best Applications |
Laminate (standard) | $2 – $5 | $1.50 – $3 | $5 – $9 | Bedrooms, rentals, basements, budget renovations |
Laminate (premium/water-resistant) | $5 – $8 | $2 – $4 | $7 – $10 | High traffic areas, moisture-vulnerable rooms |
Engineered Hardwood | $5 – $13 | $3 – $5+ | $9 – $17+ | Main living spaces, condos, balanced climates |
Solid Hardwood | $6 – $18+ | $4 – $6+ | $12 – $21+ | Long-term homes, heritage properties, premium renovations |
For a practical example: a 500 square foot living room in Vancouver using standard laminate costs approximately $3,150 installed, while the same room in engineered hardwood runs about $5,500. For 1,000 square feet, hardwood installation costs between $10,000 and $25,000 depending on species, layout, and finishing details. The price gap is real, but so is the difference in what you get.
Installation Factors That Affect Final Price
The numbers above represent typical ranges, but your actual project cost depends heavily on factors beyond materials and basic labour. These additional costs can significantly shift the budget in either direction.
Subfloor Preparation and Condition
Many Vancouver homes-especially older character homes and Vancouver Specials-have uneven or damaged subfloors that need work before new flooring goes down. Subfloor levelling, moisture testing, and moisture barrier installation can add $2 to $4 per square foot to your project. The subfloor must be perfectly flat and dry for both flooring types, but hardwood is more sensitive to moisture and unevenness. Solid hardwood especially requires a stable, level surface and proper acclimation of 48 to 72 hours before installation.
Existing Flooring Removal and Disposal
Removing old flooring adds $1 to $3 per square foot to costs, depending on the existing material. Carpet with tack strips is relatively simple. Glued-down tile or vinyl is more labour intensive. Disposal fees in Metro Vancouver vary, but you should budget for hauling and debris removal as separate line items.
Condo-Specific Requirements
Many strata buildings in Vancouver require specific sound insulation ratings (IIC/STC) for any hard-surface flooring installation. Sound-rated underlay adds cost per square foot and requires documentation proving compliance. Some strata prohibit direct glue-down solid hardwood without additional underlayment. Engineered hardwood with proper underlay is often permitted, making it a popular condo flooring choice.
Beyond sound ratings, condo projects often involve elevator booking fees, parking permits for contractors, restricted working hours, and material hoisting logistics-all of which can increase your final cost.
Additional Installation Costs
Several line items frequently catch homeowners off guard:
Baseboards and trim removal/reinstallation - Labour and materials for removing, replacing, or painting baseboards
Transition strips and reducers - Where new flooring meets tile, carpet, or other surfaces
Stairs and nosing installation - Hardwood stairs cost significantly more to finish and install than laminate; custom nosing adds expense
Furniture moving and protection - Professional movers or your own time, plus protective coverings
Plan on purchasing 5 to 10 percent more material than your exact square footage to account for waste, cuts, and pattern matching. These factors combined can add $2 to $5 per square foot to any flooring project, which is why a detailed quote matters more than a per-square-foot estimate.
Long-Term Value: Hardwood vs Laminate
Hardwood floors cost more now, but the long-term value calculation often tells a different story. Hardwood flooring can last 50 to 100 years with proper care. Hardwood can be refinished multiple times for maintenance-typically every 7 to 10 years of occasional refinishing keeps floors looking new for decades. Solid hardwood looks authentic from any distance and offers a timeless, elegant appearance that improves the aesthetic appeal of any home.
Laminate flooring generally lasts between 10 and 15 years in typical use, with premium options extending up to 25 years in areas with less foot traffic. It features a durable wear layer that resists scratches and stains, making it ideal for busy households with pets and children. However, laminate cannot be refinished; once planks become worn or suffer water damage, they must be replaced entirely.
Hardwood flooring adds significant resale value to homes. Installing hardwood typically yields a high return on investment, with flooring renovations in Vancouver returning approximately 70 to 80 percent of costs at resale. Laminate flooring adds less real estate value than hardwood, though it remains acceptable in mid-range condos and entry-level properties. In higher-end Vancouver homes, buyers expect real hardwood or quality engineered wood in main living areas.
Which Flooring Looks Better?
Hardwood has a clear advantage in appearance. Real wood grain, natural colour variation, and a warm, premium feel distinguish hardwood floors from any manufactured alternative. Species like white oak, walnut, and hickory each have distinct character. Wire-brushed and hand-scraped finishes add texture and depth. Solid hardwood looks authentic from any distance.
Laminate flooring mimics the wood look with printed surfaces and has improved significantly in recent years. High-quality laminate can closely resemble real wood, but laminate's appearance degrades upon close inspection. The repeating patterns in printed designs and the lack of real texture become noticeable, especially in large open-plan spaces.
Which Flooring Is Easier to Maintain?
Laminate is low maintenance-regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping keep it looking good. Its scratch resistance and stain resistance make it practical for busy households. However, standing water can cause edge swelling and moisture damage, so spills need prompt attention.
Hardwood requires regular cleaning and occasional refinishing. Protective finishes help, but furniture pads, careful moisture control, and proper cleaning products are essential. Hardwood requires periodic refinishing and careful moisture management, especially in wet areas or kitchens. With proper care, though, hardwood maintains its beauty and value for decades longer than laminate.
Which Flooring Is Better for Pets and Kids?
Laminate is more suitable for high-traffic areas due to its scratch resistance. For busy households with pets and active children, quality laminate handles daily wear without showing damage as quickly as softer hardwood species. Laminate flooring is highly resistant to scratches and stains, making cleanup straightforward.
Hardwood offers a warmer, more comfortable surface but can show dents and scratches depending on species and finish. Harder common hardwoods like oak and hickory perform better than softer species. Protective finishes and occasional refinishing keep hardwood looking good even with pets, but it requires more attention than laminate in active households.
Hardwood or Laminate for Condos?
Both laminate and engineered hardwood are common condo flooring options, but strata requirements often dictate what you can install. Many Vancouver strata buildings require specific IIC/STC sound ratings and approved underlay. Solid hardwood direct glue-down installations are sometimes prohibited without additional sound-rated underlayment.
Laminate or engineered hardwood is recommended for moisture-prone areas in condos, especially ground-level units or bathrooms. Check strata bylaws before purchasing any flooring-getting approval after buying materials is a costly mistake. Engineered hardwood with proper underlay often meets strata sound requirements while giving you the look and feel of real wood.
Hardwood or Laminate for Homes?
Detached homes and townhomes offer more flexibility for choosing flooring. Hardwood-especially engineered hardwood-works well in main living areas where aesthetic appeal and long-term value matter most. Solid hardwood flooring suits heritage homes and premium renovations where the investment aligns with property value.
Laminate works well in bedrooms, home offices, basements, and secondary suites where the cost effective option makes more practical sense. Many homeowners use a combination: hardwood in main living spaces for resale value and visual impact, laminate or luxury vinyl planks in lower-traffic or moisture-vulnerable areas.
When Hardwood Is Worth the Extra Cost
Choose hardwood when the long-term investment makes sense:
You plan to stay in the home for many years
The renovation is focused on main floor living areas
Resale value is a priority
You want real wood with natural character and grain
Refinishing potential matters-you want floors that last 50 to 100 years
You are renovating a heritage or higher-end property
You want a longer lifespan and are willing to accept the higher upfront cost
When Laminate Is the Smarter Choice
Laminate is the cost-effective option when:
Budget is the primary constraint
The property is a rental where durability and low maintenance matter more than premium appearance
You need new flooring for a basement or secondary suite
The renovation is a quick upgrade before selling
Kids, pets, or heavy traffic require scratch-resistant surfaces
You want to save money now and replace later
The project is in a condo with sound-rating requirements where laminate meets compliance easily
DIY installation is part of the plan-laminate's floating floor system is accessible for capable homeowners
Final Verdict: Which Is Cheaper?
Laminate is cheaper to install than hardwood in most projects. Laminate flooring costs about $2.50 to $8 per square foot installed, while hardwood costs $9 to $25 per square foot installed. The difference is significant-on a 1,000 square foot project, you could save $5,000 to $15,000 by choosing laminate.
But cost and value are not the same thing. Hardwood flooring can positively influence resale value, can be refinished multiple times to extend its lifespan, and offers a premium appearance that laminate cannot match. Laminate delivers immediate savings and practical durability, but it has a shorter lifespan and no refinishing potential.
The right choice depends on your budget, property type, lifestyle, and how long you plan to keep the floor. For budget-focused projects, compare laminate and luxury vinyl planks. For long-term value and a more premium finish, compare engineered hardwood and solid hardwood to find the best flooring for your space.
If you are comparing laminate and hardwood flooring for your home, condo, rental property, or renovation project, Floors Depot can help you review flooring options, installation methods, sound-rating requirements, and project pricing. Contact Floors Depot for a flooring estimate and product recommendations based on your space, budget, and long-term goals.
FAQ
Is laminate flooring cheaper than hardwood?
Yes. Laminate is usually cheaper to buy and install than hardwood. Laminate flooring costs about $2.50 to $8 per square foot installed, while hardwood flooring costs $9 to $25 per square foot installed. The savings come from lower material costs and faster, less labour-intensive installation.
How much cheaper is laminate compared with hardwood?
Laminate typically costs 50 to 70 percent less per square foot than hardwood when you factor in materials and labour. For a 500-square-foot room in Vancouver, laminate runs approximately $3,150 installed compared to $5,500 or more for engineered hardwood. Solid hardwood would cost even more depending on species and plank size.
Does hardwood increase home value more than laminate?
Yes. Hardwood flooring adds significant resale value to homes and is often expected by buyers in mid-to-high-end Canadian markets. Installing hardwood typically yields a high return on investment-approximately 70 to 80 percent in Vancouver. Laminate flooring adds less real estate value than hardwood, though it is acceptable in entry-level condos and rental properties.
Is engineered hardwood cheaper than solid hardwood?
Engineered hardwood can be cheaper than solid hardwood, with materials running $5 to $13 per square foot compared to $6 to $18 or more for solid hardwood. However, high-end engineered wood with thick veneers and premium species can match or exceed solid hardwood pricing. Engineered hardwood is popular in Vancouver condos because it offers better dimensional stability.
Is laminate flooring good for condos?
Laminate works well in condos, but you must verify strata sound-rating requirements first. Many Vancouver strata buildings require flooring with specific IIC/STC ratings and approved sound-rated underlay. Laminate flooring is easy to install as a floating floor, meets most sound requirements with proper underlay, and offers a cost-effective option for condo renovations.
Is hardwood or laminate better for pets?
Laminate is more suitable for high-traffic areas due to its scratch resistance, making it practical for households with pets. Quality laminate handles claws and daily wear without showing damage as quickly. Hardwood offers a more premium look but can show scratches and dents, especially in softer species. Harder hardwoods like oak with protective finishes perform better with pets.
Can laminate flooring be repaired?
Laminate flooring cannot be refinished. Damaged laminate planks must be individually replaced, which can be straightforward with click-lock systems but difficult if the damaged section is in the middle of the floor. Edge swelling from moisture damage often requires replacing broader sections rather than single planks.
Can hardwood flooring be refinished?
Yes. Hardwood can be refinished multiple times to extend its lifespan. Solid hardwood floors can typically be sanded and refinished several times over their 50 to 100 year life. Engineered hardwood can also be refinished, though the number of times depends on veneer thickness. Refinishing costs are a fraction of full replacement.
Which flooring lasts longer, hardwood or laminate?
Hardwood floors can last 50 to 100 years with proper care. Solid hardwood can last 30 to 100 years with occasional refinishing restoring the surface. Laminate flooring typically lasts 10 to 25 years and cannot be refinished-once the wear layer degrades or moisture damage occurs, replacement is the only option. Hardwood has a clear advantage in longevity.
What is the best flooring choice for a budget renovation?
Laminate flooring is often a quick and budget-friendly option for budget renovations. Quality laminate flooring typically costs $3 to $6 per square foot for materials and provides good scratch resistance and a convincing wood look. For slightly more budget, consider engineered hardwood for spaces where resale value matters. Luxury vinyl planks are another cost-effective option for wet areas.
Is laminate better than hardwood for rental properties?
Laminate is generally the smarter choice for rental properties. It costs less upfront, handles tenant wear well due to its scratch resistance, and is easier to replace between tenancies. The lower investment makes financial sense when you are not benefiting personally from the long-term value and refinishing potential that hardwood offers. Engineered hardwood is a middle ground if you want better resale appeal.
What hidden costs should I expect with flooring installation?
Common hidden costs include subfloor levelling and repair ($2 to $4 per square foot), removing old flooring ($1 to $3 per square foot), sound-rated underlay for condos, baseboard removal and reinstallation, transition strips, stair nosing, furniture moving, and material overage of 5 to 10 percent. Budget a 10 to 15 percent contingency for unexpected subfloor issues.
Do I need underlay for laminate flooring?
Yes. Laminate flooring requires underlay for cushioning, moisture protection, and noise reduction. In Vancouver condos, sound-rated underlay meeting specific IIC/STC ratings is often mandatory under strata bylaws. Even in detached homes, proper underlay improves comfort, reduces noise, and helps protect against moisture from concrete subfloors.
Is hardwood worth the extra cost?
Hardwood is worth the higher cost when you plan to stay in the home long term, want the aesthetic appeal of real wood, value refinishing potential, or are focused on resale value. Hardwood flooring can last 50 to 100 years and can be refinished multiple times. For short-term ownership or tight budgets, laminate delivers better immediate value.
Should I choose laminate, engineered hardwood, or vinyl plank?
Each has unique benefits. Laminate is the most budget-friendly and offers good scratch resistance. Engineered hardwood provides the look and feel of real wood with better dimensional stability than solid hardwood. Luxury vinyl planks offer the best water resistance for wet areas and basements. Your choice depends on budget, room location, moisture exposure, and how important the look and feel of natural wood is to you.
Comments