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Flooring Guide

What Affects the Cost of Hardwood Flooring Installation and Refinishing?

The short answer

Hardwood flooring cost depends mainly on the material chosen, the square footage, how much preparation the subfloor needs, removal of existing flooring, stairs and detail work, and the stain and finish system. Refinishing cost depends on area, floor condition, repairs, stain changes and the number of finish coats. An in-home measurement is the only reliable way to get a firm price.

Installation cost factors

  • Material: species, grade, board width, and solid versus engineered
  • Prefinished versus site-finished, including custom stain
  • Total area and the number and shape of rooms
  • Removal and disposal of existing carpet, tile or wood
  • Subfloor repairs, leveling and moisture mitigation
  • Stairs, landings, nosing, transitions and trim
  • Layout: straight lay versus herringbone, chevron or borders
  • Matching and weaving into existing floors

Refinishing cost factors

  • Square footage and number of rooms
  • Condition: deep scratches, stains or previous finishes that are hard to remove
  • Board repairs or replacements needed first
  • Stain color change versus natural finish
  • Finish type and number of coats
  • Stairs and handrails

Things that are easy to overlook

Furniture moving, baseboard and shoe molding, door trimming and transitions to other floors all affect the final scope. Ask whether these are included when comparing estimates. Our written estimates itemize the work so you can see what is covered.

Getting an accurate price

Online averages can be a starting point, but the condition of your subfloor and existing floors makes a big difference. A free in-home estimate with measurement and a moisture check gives you a firm, itemized number.

Common questions

Why do flooring estimates vary so much?
Estimates differ in material grade, prep work, removal, stairs, trim and whether furniture moving is included. Comparing itemized estimates makes the differences clear.
Is refinishing cheaper than new hardwood?
Refinishing generally costs less than installing new floors because it reuses the existing wood, but condition and repairs affect the total.
Does Prospect Hardwood Flooring offer free estimates?
Yes. Estimates are free, in-home, written and itemized.

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Where we work

Prospect Hardwood Flooring of Maryland is based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and serves communities across the state, including Annapolis, Severna Park, Arnold and Gaithersburg, plus the rest of Anne Arundel and Montgomery counties.

Get a free, written estimate

We measure, check your subfloor and moisture levels, and give you an itemized estimate with no obligation.