Whether you are looking to add new flooring to a new structure or looking to upgrade your floors, you need an accurate price estimate for a reasonable budget. Several cost planning details ought to be put into consideration as you figure out the project costs. Fortunately, careful planning and advice from floor experts will help you learn how to calculate the costs of material and installation.
Below are the major steps to developing the best flooring budget based on the requirements of your project.
Step 1: Take Measurements
Most flooring materials on the market are sold in square foot, but there is always the option of purchasing some items in widths. So, you must calculate the floor space size using the room’s length and width. To help you calculate the dimensions of your space, use these tips:
- Request for floor samples – A sample during the cost planning face will help you decide what layout works best depending on the plank pieces to help you create the best interior design space for that room. From the samples, you can figure how much material you need, should you decide to combine two products in the same space such as stone tiles and wood flooring.
- Square the space – The space might not be in a poor rectangular or square shape. Further, spaces and nooks may not extend to the full wall length in some areas. You need to square off your space into squares or rectangles for accurate calculations. Take length and width measurements of each squared-off space and multiply the numbers together for an overall square footage dimensions figure. With these figures, you can figure out just how much material you need to order and their costs.
- Add extra materials – Always buy more flooring than you require before the project starts so you are prepared for any replacement or repair jobs that may occur. As you create your budget, factor in at least 10 percent more for extra flooring material.
Step 2: Factor in Disposal Costs
Professional builders and contractors include demolition and disposals costs into a project’s estimate. For a small space, you might decide to carry out this part of the project yourself to reduce expenses. Figure out the associated expenses by finding out how much a contractor is likely to charge you for the demolition and disposal of your old flooring.
Step 3: The Labor Costs
Your installation figures should also take into consideration how much labor work is required and possible unplanned tasks that might be performed. The latter include work required for underlayment, applying adhesives, carrying out subfloor repairs, and other tasks. Figuring out labor costs helps you compare the different bid quotes contractors deliver so you hire the right flooring company at the best price.
Finally
Other things you need to take into consideration as you create a budget for your flooring project are flooring installation type, types of floors (whether laminate, vinyl, hardwood, or other), warranty on floor product, and your location. If you are not comfortable doing the budget yourself, there is always the option of calling in professionals. However, go with a company that offers free in-home estimates for both commercial and residential flooring projects.