Homeowners in Santa Ana, California, should expect to spend around $6 per square foot on average to install laminate floors for a 1,282-square-foot house.
The actual price for laminate flooring installation in Orange County depends on the type of materials and cost of labor. Based on the average rate in Santa Ana, you could spend around $7,190 on laminate flooring but some projects may cost between $6,490 and $7,880. The return on investment in laminate flooring varies among residents, but it can increase the value of a house by approximately $4,800.
Breakdown of Expenses
The price of laminate flooring for 1,282 square feet of space usually cost around $2,450. Professional labor fees will account for more than 50% of the project expenses. You should expect to pay $4,307 for the cost of installation, which could take around 69.4 hours of work. Materials and supplies cost roughly $375. Laminate wood finishing and color will also affect the overall price.
If you have a concrete or stone sub-floor, it’s necessary to install vapor barriers in laminate flooring. Vapor barriers prevent moisture damage over time and during variable weather. Homeowners should consider the right underlayment to improve the surface area. Otherwise, you will find it hard to walk barefoot on laminate floors.
How to Choose the Right Laminate
It can be confusing to pick the right type of laminate but focus on warranty length, AC rating and texture. A standard manufacturer’s warranty usually lasts for 10 years. The product coverage will vary among different manufacturers so make a comparison by reading the warranty’s conditions.
AC rating refers to the strength and durability of the laminate. Aim for a material with an AC 4 rating. The highest rating, which is AC 5, is more common for commercial and industrial spaces. You can install laminate with lower AC ratings yet use them for rooms low foot traffic like bedrooms. On the other hand, the best type of texture for laminate is a high-gloss material because of its greater resistance against damage.
Ancillary Expenses
While it’s possible to install laminate wood on short carpets, you may void the manufacturer’s warranty. It’s more practical to remove the existing carpet to preserve your coverage. You should prepare to spend an extra $1.30 per square foot for the disposal and removal of glued-down carpets.
On the other hand, homeowners who like to replace a different floor type with laminate may choose to remove the existing one by themselves. A professional removal will cost an additional $400 for a 200-square-foot space. Subflooring replacement cost $70 per hour on average for professional removal. Whether or not you plan to remove the existing on your own, the subfloor should be left undamaged.
Conclusion
Consult up to five different contractors and ask for an itemized quote for laminate flooring installation. Remember that a bigger space will require a larger budget although inquire about flat rates as well. Some companies may charge a fixed rate even if your floor space is smaller than the average size.