Summary
Understanding Wooden Flooring Cost Fundamentals
Wooden flooring can transform everyday spaces into luxurious sanctuaries, providing warmth and elegance in commercial, residential, and home settings. Yet, one question arises during the planning phase: What is the exact price of wood flooring? This requires an examination of multiple factors that impact the final price. The wooden flooring cost per square foot in India varies widely depending on the type of flooring, the wood species, its quality grade, and local factors. Basic laminate flooring starts at ₹70-₹150 per square foot, and premium solid hardwood can cost ₹400-1500 per sq ft. Understanding the prices helps you establish reasonable budgets before starting the renovation process.
Beyond the material cost, the total wood flooring design costs include installation, underlayment, finishing, maintenance, and possibly subfloor preparation. These costs can be 30-50% higher than the base price of the materials. Thorough budget planning is vital to project success.
Different types of wood flooring and the Costs
Three main categories of wood flooring dominating the Indian market, each with distinctive characteristics and price points.
1. Solid Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood is the most expensive option for wood flooring. Made entirely from individual timber pieces, this flooring type offers unparalleled authenticity and durability.
Wooden Flooring Price Per Sq Ft:
| Grade | Price Range (per sq ft) |
| Standard Grades | ₹400 – ₹600 |
| Premium Species | ₹700 – ₹1,500 |
| Exotic Woods | ₹1,200 – ₹5,000 |
Solid hardwood is a premium flooring choice known for its durability, timeless beauty, and ability to enhance interior aesthetics. Choosing the right species and understanding climate-related considerations is key to maximising its lifespan and value.
- Common Species: Teak, Oak, Maple, Cherry, Walnut
- Teak is especially popular in India for its natural resistance to insects and moisture
- Oak is prized for its beautiful grain patterns and exceptional durability, justifying its premium price
- Advantages of Solid Hardwood:
- Can be refinished multiple times over its lifespan
- Extremely long-lasting, potentially 50–100 years with proper care
- Adds warmth and natural beauty to interiors
- Floors tend to appreciate rather than depreciate over time
- Considerations for Indian Climates:
- High-humidity areas (e.g., coastal regions) can cause expansion and warping
- Regular sealing and indoor humidity control are necessary to prevent damage
- Maintenance requirements may increase long-term costs.
2. Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood strikes a perfect balance between authenticity and practicality. The flooring is made of a real wood veneer applied over several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard.
Wooden Flooring Design Cost:
- The standard engineered lumber: ₹80 - ₹200 per square foot
- Options with premium engineered features: ₹250-₹400 per sq feet
- Designer finishes of the highest quality: ₹450-₹600 per square foot
The construction of layered wood provides better dimensional stability than solid wood. Engineered flooring is resistant to moisture-related expansion and contraction, making it suitable for the Indian climate's fluctuations. Installation flexibility is yet another benefit of engineered wood. Floating installation techniques reduce labour costs compared to the nail-down method for solid wood.
3. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is the best affordable wooden flooring option. Although they are synthetic, contemporary laminates successfully reproduce the authentic wood look using high-resolution photographs of high resolution.
Wooden Flooring Price Per Sq Ft:
| Category | Price Range (₹ per sq ft) |
| Basic Laminate | ₹70 – ₹100 |
| Mid-Grade Options | ₹100 – ₹200 |
| Premium Scratch-Resistant | ₹150 – ₹300 |
Laminate construction layers a high-density fibreboard core material, which is then topped with printed design layers and wear layers. The wear layer determines longevity, and the AC rating (Abrasion Criteria) indicates the material's suitability for various traffic levels. AC3-rated laminates are suitable for residential use, and AC4-AC5 grade laminates are suitable for commercial settings.
Installation Costs for Wooden Flooring
Installation expenses significantly influence the total cost of wooden flooring beyond material pricing. Professional installation ensures proper execution but adds substantial charges to project budgets.
Labour Charges:
| Installation Type | Cost Range (₹ per sq ft) |
| Basic Installation | ₹50 – ₹100 |
| Complex Patterns | ₹100 – ₹200 |
| Premium Herringbone/Chevron | ₹150 – ₹300 |
Installation method selection impacts labour costs. Nail-down installation for solid hardwood requires experienced craftsmen and specialised equipment, increasing the cost of wooden flooring per sq ft for labour. Floating installations using click-lock systems proceed faster and require less labour.
Subfloor Preparation
Existing floor conditions dramatically affect installation complexity and cost. Perfectly level, clean subfloors enable straightforward installation. Uneven, damaged, or moisture-compromised subfloors require remediation before flooring installation proceeds.
Preparation Costs:
| Preparation Work | Cost Range (₹ per sq ft) |
| Surface Cleaning | ₹10 – ₹20 |
| Leveling Compounds | ₹30 – ₹60 |
| Moisture Barrier Installation | ₹20 – ₹40 |
| Old Flooring Removal | ₹30 – ₹80 |
Mumbai projects frequently encounter moisture issues requiring specialised treatments. Coastal humidity necessitates moisture barriers and potentially waterproof underlayments, which increase the cost of wooden flooring but prevent future damage. Skipping proper preparation creates problems that ultimately cost more to remedy than prevention would have required.
Additional Installation Components
A complete wooden flooring installation requires accessories beyond the primary planks.
Essential Components:
| Additional Materials | Cost Range |
| Underlayment | ₹15 – ₹40 per sq ft |
| Transition Strips | ₹200 – ₹800 per piece |
| Baseboards / Moulding | ₹50 – ₹200 per running foot |
| Adhesives / Fasteners | ₹10 – ₹30 per sq ft |
Wooden Flooring Cost by Indian Cities
Regional variations significantly affect the cost of wooden flooring per sq ft across India. Material availability, transportation expenses, labour rates, and local demand influence city-specific pricing.
Mumbai:
Mumbai's high demand and premium real estate market drive up the cost of wooden flooring. Coastal humidity also necessitates moisture-resistant options that command higher prices.
| Flooring Type | Approximate Cost (₹ per sq ft) |
| Laminate | ₹100 – ₹250 |
| Engineered Wood | ₹200 – ₹500 |
| Solid Hardwood | ₹600 – ₹1,800 |
Delhi NCR:
Delhi benefits from proximity to northern timber sources and competitive supplier markets. Extreme temperature variations favour engineered wood that handles expansion and contraction better than solid alternatives.
| Flooring Type | Approximate Cost (₹ per sq ft) |
| Laminate | ₹80 – ₹200 |
| Engineered Wood | ₹180 – ₹450 |
| Solid Hardwood | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
Bangalore:
Bangalore's moderate climate suits a variety of flooring types. Strong tech-sector demand supports premium products, but competition keeps mid-range options reasonably priced.
| Flooring Type | Approximate Cost (₹ per sq ft) |
| Laminate | ₹90 – ₹220 |
| Engineered Wood | ₹190 – ₹480 |
| Solid Hardwood | ₹550 – ₹1,600 |
Hyderabad:
Hyderabad offers relatively affordable wooden flooring design costs compared to tier-one metros. Growing infrastructure and supplier networks improve material availability and competitive pricing.
| Flooring Type | Approximate Cost (₹ per sq ft) |
| Laminate | ₹75 – ₹180 |
| Engineered Wood | ₹170 – ₹400 |
| Solid Hardwood | ₹480 – ₹1,400 |
Tier-2 City Considerations
Smaller cities typically have 10-20% lower costs for wooden flooring than metropolitan areas. However, premium materials may be in short supply, and specialised installation expertise may be scarce. Transportation charges for specific products can offset some savings when materials require shipment from distant suppliers.
Factors Affecting Wooden Flooring Design Cost
Numerous variables influence the final cost of wooden flooring beyond basic per-square-foot pricing.
Wood Species Selection
Different wood species carry vastly different price points based on availability, characteristics, and aesthetic appeal.
| Category | Wood Type | Approximate Cost (₹ per sq ft) |
| Budget-Friendly Options | Bamboo | ₹150 – ₹300 |
| Pine | ₹200 – ₹400 | |
| Rubber Wood | ₹180 – ₹350 | |
| Mid-Range Choices | Oak | ₹400 – ₹700 |
| Maple | ₹450 – ₹750 | |
| Ash | ₹400 – ₹650 | |
| Premium Species | Teak | ₹800 – ₹1,500 |
| Walnut | ₹700 – ₹1,200 | |
| Mahogany | ₹900 – ₹1,600 | |
| Cherry | ₹750 – ₹1,300 |
Domestic species cost less than imported alternatives. Indian teak prices remain competitive despite a premium status. Imported exotics like Brazilian cherry or Australian jarrah command significant premiums due to transportation and import duties.
Plank Dimensions
Plank dimensions play a crucial role in determining the cost, durability, and overall visual impact of wooden flooring.
Width
- Plank width directly impacts the wooden flooring price per sq ft
- Wider planks (180mm+) are more expensive than standard widths (120–150mm)
- Fewer seams create a cleaner, more dramatic visual appeal
Length
- Longer planks typically command a price premium
- Reduce the number of joints, improving aesthetics
- Can lower installation time compared to shorter planks
Thickness
- Determines durability, lifespan, and refinishing potential
- Solid hardwood: typically 18–22mm thick
- Engineered wood: 10–20mm total thickness with a 2–6mm wear layer
- Thicker planks allow more refinishing cycles, justifying higher upfront flooring costs over time.
Finish Types
Surface finish significantly impacts appearance, durability, and pricing.
| Finish Option | Cost Impact |
| Natural / Matte | Standard pricing |
| Semi-gloss | +10–15% cost increase |
| High-gloss | +15–25% cost increase |
| Hand-scraped | +20–30% cost increase |
| Wire-brushed | +15–25% cost increase |
| Distressed | +25–40% cost increase |
Matte finishes suit contemporary aesthetics while hiding minor scratches better than glossy alternatives. High-gloss finishes create dramatic reflective surfaces but show every imperfection. Hand-scraped and distressed finishes add artisanal character and command premium prices.
Brand Premium
Reputed brands charge 20-50% more than generic alternatives but offer superior quality assurance, comprehensive warranties, and consistent product specifications.
Leading Brands:
- Pergo: Premium laminate specialist
- Quick-Step: High-quality European imports
- Armstrong: Comprehensive flooring solutions
- Greenlam: Premium Indian manufacturer
- Action Tesa: Reliable domestic option
Brand premiums purchase peace of mind through established quality standards and customer support. Generic alternatives save money initially but may lack consistency or warranty coverage when problems arise.
Installation Pattern Complexity
Standard straight-lay patterns minimise waste and labour time. Complex patterns increase both material requirements and installation costs.
Pattern Cost Impact:
- Straight/running bond: Base cost
- Diagonal layout: +15-20% increase
- Herringbone: +30-40% increase
- Chevron: +35-45% increase
- Mixed-width planks: +20-30% increase
Intricate patterns create stunning visual effects, justifying the additional cost of wooden flooring for homeowners prioritising aesthetics. However, budget-conscious projects achieve beautiful results through simpler layouts that showcase wood's natural beauty.
Hidden Costs in Wooden Flooring Projects
Comprehensive budgeting requires accounting for expenses beyond obvious material and labour charges.
Wastage Allowance
All flooring projects generate waste through cutting and fitting. Standard wastage runs 8-12% for straight installations. Complex patterns or irregular room shapes increase waste to 15-20%. Purchasing adequate materials prevents mid-project shortages that delay completion and potentially result in mismatched batch colours.
GST and Transportation
Goods and Services Tax adds 18% to most wooden flooring purchases. Transportation charges vary based on supplier location and order size. Bulk purchases often include free delivery, while small orders incur per-kilometre charges.
Stairs and Landings
Stair coverings significantly increase the cost of wooden flooring per sq ft due to complex fabrication requirements. Treads, risers, and nosings require precise cutting and specialised installation skills.
Stair Costs:
- Basic stair coverage: ₹2,000-₹5,000 per step
- Premium hardwood stairs: ₹4,000-₹10,000 per step
- Custom curved staircases: ₹8,000-₹20,000 per step
Door Trimming
Existing doors typically require trimming to accommodate the new flooring height. Professional trimming costs ₹200-₹500 per door. Homeowners with proper tools can handle this task themselves, reducing project expenses.
Furniture Moving
Large projects require furniture relocation during installation. Professional moving services charge ₹2,000-₹8,000 depending on furniture volume and relocation complexity. Some installers include basic furniture moving while others charge separately.
Maintenance Costs for Wooden Flooring
Long-term ownership costs extend beyond initial installation through ongoing maintenance requirements.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the finish and appearance of wooden flooring. Consistent daily care prevents surface damage and helps flooring retain its original look for years.
- Sweep or vacuum daily to remove dirt and debris that can scratch wooden finishes.
- Use specialised wood floor cleaners (₹300–₹800 per litre); one litre covers 100–150 sq ft per application.
Periodic Refinishing
Solid hardwood and thick-veneer engineered floors benefit from periodic refinishing, which restores their original beauty.
- Light sanding and recoating: ₹80-₹150 per sq ft
- Complete refinishing: ₹120-₹250 per sq ft
- Stain color changes: ₹150-₹300 per sq ft
Refinishing frequency depends on traffic levels and finish durability. Residential installations typically need refinishing every 7-15 years. Commercial spaces may require attention every 3-5 years.
Repairs and Replacements
Damaged planks occasionally require replacement. Engineered wood with click-lock systems makes repairs easier than with nail-down installations. Maintaining extra material from the original installation ensures perfect colour matching for future repairs.
- Single plank replacement: ₹500-₹2,000 per plank
- Water damage restoration: ₹100-₹300 per sq ft
- Scratch repair: ₹50-₹150 per occurrence
Termite Treatment
Termite protection safeguards wooden flooring from hidden structural damage. Routine treatment ensures long-term durability and protects your flooring investment from costly repairs.
- Preventive termite treatment is necessary in termite-prone regions.
- Annual treatments typically cost ₹3,000–₹10,000 for an average home.
Wooden Flooring Cost Comparison: Budget Planning Guide
Comprehensive cost comparisons help establish realistic project budgets.
1,000 Sq Ft Home Installation
| Flooring Type | Materials Cost | Installation Cost | Preparation & Accessories | Total Estimated Cost |
| Budget (Laminate) | ₹70,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,10,000 |
| Mid-Range (Engineered Wood) | ₹1,80,000 – ₹4,00,000 | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹6,30,000 |
| Premium (Solid Hardwood) | ₹4,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 | ₹5,60,000 – ₹13,70,000 |
These estimates provide general guidance. Actual costs vary based on specific product selections, regional pricing, and project complexity.
Wooden Flooring Specific to the Room
Different areas have different requirements for wooden flooring that impact cost and the selection of flooring.
Living Rooms
- Living room flooring is highly visible, making premium materials a worthwhile investment
- Solid hardwood or high-quality engineered wood creates a strong visual impact
- Estimated cost: ₹300–₹800 per sq ft (including materials and labour)
Bedrooms
- Bedroom has lower foot traffic allows for more cost-effective flooring choices
- Engineered wood or premium laminate balances comfort and value
- Soft wooden finishes enhance warmth and ambience
- Estimated cost: ₹200–₹500 per sq ft
Kitchens
- Kitchens have high exposure to spills and moisture, which requires water-resistant flooring
- Waterproof engineered wood or laminate performs better than solid hardwood
- Designed to handle durability and maintenance needs
- Estimated cost: ₹250–₹600 per sq ft.
Choosing flooring for your living room is based on the room's function, ensuring the right balance of aesthetics, durability, and cost to help you invest wisely while achieving a cohesive, long-lasting interior design.
Commercial Spaces and Office Spaces
Commercial installations require greater durability by using AC4-AC5 rated laminates or commercial-grade engineered timber. The heavy traffic demands top wear resistance, which is why we recommend premium materials. Commercial wood flooring costs vary in the range of ₹200 to ₹700 per sq ft based on the expectations of traffic.
Conclusion
Homeowners who want to create lasting interior spaces with functional design and beauty need to understand the cost of wooden flooring. The price range for flooring materials ranges from ₹70 per sq ft for budget-friendly laminates to ₹1,500 per sq ft for premium solid hardwood, depending on material type, wood species, plank dimensions, finishes, and installation requirements.
The installation process, along with maintenance costs and local market pricing, should be included in budget planning to prevent unexpected expenses. The selection of appropriate flooring materials for different rooms, including living spaces, bedrooms and kitchens, and commercial areas, leads to both long-lasting performance and visually appealing results.
How NoBroker Can Help You
NoBroker Interiors makes transforming your home with wooden flooring simple and stress-free. Our team of experts will guide you through all stages of the project, from material selection to installation perfection, ensuring it stays within your budget and meets your design and operational needs. Our company offers clear pricing, premium material selection, skilled installation services, and full project coordination. The company provides customized solutions that include warranty protection and continuous post-installation support, giving customers full peace of mind.
