How much does flooring cost — Carpet, Vinyl, Polished Concrete & Wood

From the inviting warmth of carpet to the enduring elegance of wood flooring and the contemporary appeal of polished concrete, each flooring option offers unique benefits, drawbacks, and price considerations. 

This comprehensive article will delve into the various types of flooring available, the advantages and disadvantages of each and the associated costs.

Carpet 

Carpet provides a comfortable surface underfoot, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and living areas. 

Advantages of Carpet

• Comfortable to walk on. 
• It helps keep rooms warm. 
• Reduces noise levels. 

Drawbacks of Carpet

• Requires regular maintenance, including vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning. 
• It is not as durable and needs replacing more frequently.
• It can be expensive to purchase and install.  

Carpet costs

The cost of carpet varies widely depending on the material, quality, and brand. Basic synthetic carpets can cost as little as $25 per square metre, while high-end wool carpets can cost upwards of $100 per square metre. 

Installation costs typically range from $50 per hour. Additional expenses may include padding, removal of old flooring, and special treatments like stain resistance. 

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility, durability, and affordability. It is available in a wide range of styles, including sheets, tiles, and planks, and can mimic the look of more expensive materials like hardwood, stone, and ceramic tiles. 

Advantages of Vinyl Flooring

• High durable for busy households and commercial spaces.
• Resistant to water and moisture.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• The most cost-effective flooring option.

Drawbacks of Vinyl Flooring

• Made from synthetic materials and produced with harmful chemicals. 
• Looks and feels artificial. 
• Susceptible to scratches, dents, and tears.

Vinyl flooring costs

Vinyl flooring is generally affordable, with prices ranging from $22 to $87 NZD per square metre. Installation costs are typically between $33 and $65 NZD per hour. 

Polished Concrete 

Polished concrete flooring is known for its sleek, modern look and durability. It is a popular choice for contemporary and industrial-style interiors, as well as commercial spaces. 

Advantages of Polished Concrete

• Highly durable and can withstand scratches, stains, and moisture. 
• Low Maintenance and easy to keep clean.
• An industrial-chic aesthetic that can be customised with different finishes, colours, and decorative elements. 

Drawbacks of Polished Concrete

• Hard and cold underfoot. 
• Complex to install, requiring specialised skills and equipment.
• Does not absorb sound and can make your space feel echoey. 

Polished concrete flooring costs

The cost of polished concrete varies depending on the level of polishing and customisation. Typically it ranges from $50 to $150 per square metre, including installation costs.

Solid Wood Flooring 

Wood flooring is prized for its natural beauty, warmth, and timeless appeal. It is made from a single piece of wood and is known for its durability and longevity. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, allowing it to last for decades with proper care. 

Advantages of Solid Hardwood Flooring

• Has a rich, natural look available in various species, finishes, and plank widths. 
• Can last for generations
• Can be refinished to remove scratches and dents.
• Increases the resale value of your home. 

Drawbacks of Solid Hardwood Flooring

• The most expensive option in terms of material and installation costs. 
• Susceptible to moisture damage and not recommended for bathrooms.
• May warp or expand over time. 

Solid wood flooring costs

Solid hardwood flooring typically ranges from $138 to $234 per square metre. Solid wood is supplied in raw form and needs to be finished on-site, costing $64 to $130 per square metre.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring is made from a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) with a top layer of real hardwood veneer. This construction provides enhanced stability and resistance to moisture compared to solid hardwood. 

Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Will not expand and contract when exposed to humidity and temperature fluctuations.
• Suitable for a wide range of environments. 
• An authentic timber veneer available in various styles and colours. 
• Easy to install using the glue-down method.

Drawbacks of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Can only be refinished a few times, depending on the wear layer thickness.
• It is less expensive than solid hardwood but can still be costly. 
• Some manufacturers use harmful adhesives and chemicals.

Engineered wood flooring costs

Engineered hardwood flooring generally costs about 10% to 30% less than solid hardwood, ranging from $150 to $450 per square metre. With a pre-finished engineered wood plank, installation is more affordable because the treatments and coatings are applied in the factory. Installation will usually cost $75 to $165 per square metre. 

Comparing the cost of flooring NZ 

In New Zealand, the cost of flooring can vary based on several factors, including the type of material, quality, and installation method. Here is a summary of the approximate costs for different flooring options: 

*These prices are indicative only and are subject to change based on each project and manufacturer. 

Why choose Forté engineered wood flooring? 

Forté Flooring offers a diverse range of wood flooring options, including engineered wood, designed to meet the highest standards of quality and aesthetics. 

Superior Quality and Durability

Forté engineered wood flooring is crafted with multiple layers of high-quality wood, making it more stable and resistant to changes in humidity and temperature. 

Sustainability 

At Forté, our engineered wood flooring is made from responsibly sourced wood and environmentally friendly production methods.

Wide Range of Styles and Finishes

Our engineered wood flooring comes in a variety of finishes, colours, and wood species, allowing you to find the perfect match for your interior design. 

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Our engineered wood flooring is designed for hassle-free installation. The planks fit together seamlessly, making the installation process quick and efficient. Additionally, our flooring is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only sweeping and mopping to keep it looking pristine. 

Enhanced Stability and Performance

The multi-layer construction of our flooring provides superior stability, minimising the risk of warping, cupping, and gapping.

Increased Property Value

Our high-quality engineered wood flooring can significantly increase the value of your property. The timeless appeal and durability are highly attractive to potential buyers, making it a wise investment.

Expert Advice and Customer Support

Our team of flooring experts is available to provide guidance and support throughout the selection and installation process, ensuring that you achieve the best results for your space. Our services don’t end after you’ve purchased our products either — we also offer extensive aftercare services and warranties long after they’ve been installed. 


Discover our full range of engineered wood flooring options today and let us help you create a space that reflects your style and values. Alternatively, download our Ultimate guide to wood flooring to receive our expert advice all in one place.