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Understanding the Cost To Install LVP Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide
29.02.24
Many Aussie homeowners are choosing Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, and it's easy to see why. It’s tough, looks fantastic, and won't break the bank!
Did that last one particularly prick your ears?
While we may dream of one day saying, "Money is no object!", the hard truth is that most of us need to carefully count our pennies when planning a floor redo.
So, how much does it cost to install LVP flooring?
This guide is here to help you understand the nitty-gritty of installation costs, including factors that can influence the final price tag. Then, you can prepare your budget accordingly for a stunning LVP flooring makeover.
What Is LVP Flooring?
LVP flooring combines the high-end appearance of natural timber floorboards with vinyl's durability, easy maintenance, and more accessible price point.
This engineered flooring uses realistic photographic layers to mimic the look of natural wood, including different colours, grain patterns, and textures. These printed layers are then topped with a clear protective layer that resists scratches, dents, and water.
What other advantages do LVPs have over more traditional flooring options?
- Quick and easy click-together design.
- No need for underlay, as their pre-attached foam backing allows for installation directly onto an existing floor.
- No warping or cracking under extreme temperatures.
- Warmer and more comfortable underfoot.
- Reduced noise transmission, as the plank materials absorb sound.
Factors Influencing LVP Flooring Installation Costs
Quality and Brand of the LVPs
High-end LVP brands that offer superior durability, more realistic designs, and additional features such as enhanced UV protection or waterproofing will generally be more expensive.
Size of the Area Being Covered
Material and labour pricing is typically calculated by the square metre. Larger spaces mean more materials and more labour, which equals more cash!
Labour Costs and the Complexity of Installation
While LVPs feature a simple click-lock installation design, if you have no tools or confidence in your DIY abilities, you'll need to factor in labour costs!
Labour costs will vary depending on the contractor’s rates and the complexity of the installation, such as the layout of the room(s), the need for subfloor preparation, and any special installation patterns or designs. These installation complexities are more labour-intensive and, thus, more expensive.
Additional Materials
Beyond the planks themselves, additional materials may be necessary.
- Underlay: If the planks don't have a pre-attached backing for insulation, noise reduction, and a smooth installation foundation, you'll need to purchase an underlay.
- Adhesives: Although most LVP products are designed for floating installation, some may require adhesives, especially in high-foot-traffic commercial spaces or specific residential scenarios like bathrooms and kitchens where moisture resistance is crucial.
- Trim and moulding: You'll need to purchase trim (like transition strips) and moulding (like skirting boards) to transition to different flooring types and finish the room's edges.
- Miscellaneous materials: Depending on the project, items like moisture barriers or levelling compounds might be needed, especially if the subfloor requires preparation.
Average Cost Per Square Metre
We’ve put together a general breakdown of the cost of materials and labour to install LVP flooring per square metre, but please note that these figures are rough estimates! Prices will fluctuate based on location, market trends, product selections, and contractor rates. For the most accurate pricing, it's best to get quotes directly from local suppliers and contractors.
Material Costs
You can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $80 per square metre for LVPs.
Prices for skirting boards and transition strips will vary based on material, design, and length, with skirting boards and moulding ranging from $10 to $30 per linear metre and trim and transition strips costing $30-$50 per linear metre.
Labour Cost
Depending on the job's complexity, the subfloor's condition, and the contractor's rates, the average labour cost to install LVP flooring can be $30-$60 per square metre.
Total Cost
To calculate the total installation cost per square metre, you'd add the cost of the LVPs, any trim and moulding, and the labour costs.
Based on our estimates, for budget-friendly LVPs and standard installation, you'd be looking at $90 per square metre plus $40 per linear metre for trim and moulding.
For premium LVPs and complex installation, it would be $140 per square metre plus $80 per linear metre for trim and moulding.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Trying to decide whether to tackle the installation yourself or hire professionals?
Let's compare the two options to help you make the best choice.
DIY
Benefits
Cost savings: By eliminating professional labour costs, you only pay for the materials, significantly reducing the total cost of your project.
Flexibility: DIY allows you to work at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it easier to fit the project around other commitments.
Risks
Skill level: Inexperienced DIYers might face challenges, leading to mistakes that could affect the floor's appearance and longevity.
Time investment: DIY projects often take longer than expected, especially for those learning as they go. This could extend the time your home is in disarray.
No warranty: Some manufacturers may not offer a warranty on materials if they're not installed by a professional.
Professional Installation
Benefits
Expertise: Professionals have the skills and experience to install your LVP flooring correctly and efficiently.
Time-saving: Hiring professionals will speed up the installation process, minimising disruption to your daily life.
Warranty and peace of mind: Many contractors offer a warranty on their work, and correctly installed flooring can also preserve the manufacturer's warranty on materials.
Risks
Cost: Labour costs will add significantly to your project budget.
Getting the wrong contractor: Finding a reliable and skilled contractor can be challenging. Poorly done work can lead to additional expenses and headaches.
Cost Comparison
Let's assume you're laying LVPs over a 20-square-metre area.
For professional installation, you could pay $600 to $1,200 based on average labour costs. In contrast, you'll save that much if you install the flooring yourself!
The best choice depends on your budget, time, skills, and the value you place on the benefits of professional installation versus the cost savings of DIY.
How To Save on LVP Flooring Installation
Here are some tips to help you save money on installation without skimping on quality.
- Time your purchase. Keep an eye out for promotions and sales, like end-of-financial-year, Black Friday, or after-Christmas sales.
- Buy in bulk. Retailers often offer discounts on large orders, so it's worth asking about bulk pricing if you plan to redo several rooms or your entire house.
- Choose the right product. While you might be tempted to go for the cheapest LVP option, consider the value over time. Spending a bit more upfront on a higher-quality product that’ll last longer can save you money in the long run.
- DIY what you can. If you're handy, consider doing some or all of the installation yourself. Even if you're not up for installing the flooring, you can save on labour costs by doing the prep work, like removing the old flooring and baseboards.
- Shop around for quotes. If you choose professional installation, compare quotes from several reputable contractors.
Long-Term Value of LVP Flooring
LVP flooring is an excellent investment because it's tough, long-lasting, and offers great long-term value to your home.
LVPs are designed to resist scratches, dents, and stains, so despite the chaos of daily wear and tear, they'll look fantastic and won't need replacing for a long time.
How long?
Quality LVP flooring can last 15 to 25 years with proper care, sometimes even longer!
When it comes to property value, while LVPs might not increase this value as much as natural timber floorboards, their popularity and aesthetic appeal can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
FAQs About the Cost To Install LVP Flooring
How Much Should It Cost To Install LVP Flooring?
The average cost to install LVP flooring can be about $30-$60 per square metre for labour only.
Installation costs vary depending on the job's complexity, the subfloor's condition, and the contractor's rates.
Is It Cheaper To Install LVPs or Tiles?
Generally, it's cheaper to install LVPs as they require less labour time than tiles thanks to their quick and easy click-lock design and fewer materials, like grout or cement.How Long Does It Take Professionals To Install LVP Flooring?
Professionals should be able to install LVP flooring relatively quickly, often completing the job within one to three days for an average-sized room.
The exact time depends on the room size, preparation work needed, and layout complexity.
Achieving Elegance at Great Value: Your Next Steps in LVP Flooring Installation
For luxury flooring that won't cost an arm and a leg, LVPs are the way to go!
Browse our beautiful, high-quality LVP flooring range online, then visit a showroom near you to see the range in person.
To find out the cost to install LVP flooring at your place, book a free design consultation with one of our in-store flooring experts for advice and a quote.
Alternatively, fill out this online form to contact our team for more information.