Engineered flooring has become a popular choice for New Zealand homes due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and suitability for various climate conditions (meaning no ugly expansion gaps included in your floors). However, one of the primary concerns for homeowners is the cost.
This blog post will explore the factors influencing the price of engineered flooring in New Zealand and provide a general estimate.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Engineered Flooring
Several factors contribute to the overall cost of engineered flooring:
Wood Species:
Domestic Species:Â Typically more affordable options like Rimu or Matai.
Exotic Species:Â Higher-end choices like Oak, Walnut, or Bamboo, often imported and priced accordingly.
Thickness and Layers:
Thickness:Â Thicker boards generally cost more as they offer greater stability and potential for sanding and refinishing as they use more oak and materials, however Marchand's boards are not necessarily more expensive than thinner alternatives, often can be cheaper.
Layers:Â The number of layers in the engineered wood construction also impacts the price. More layers often indicate higher quality and durability.
Finish:
Pre-finished:Â Comes ready to install, saving time and effort but may limit customisation options. The home owner doesn't need to worry about re applying any oils over the years.
Unfinished:Â Requires sanding and finishing on-site, allowing for greater control over the final appearance but adds to the overall cost and complexity.
Installation:
DIY Installation:Â Can save costs but requires skill and time, often handymen or builders can install their own flooring, we can assist anybody who is looking to do so.
Professional Installation:Â While more expensive, it ensures a high-quality and seamless installation, depending on where you are in the country I would allow for approximately $100sqm for laying.
Additional Costs:
Underlay:Â Essential for soundproofing and insulation in high rise apartments.
Skirting Boards:Â Match the flooring and complete the aesthetic.
Door Trimming:Â May be necessary to accommodate the new flooring thickness.
General Cost Estimate
While prices can vary widely, here's a general estimate for engineered flooring in New Zealand:
Budget-Friendly Options:Â Starting from around $80 per square meter, including thin basic domestic species and simple finishes. Be prepared if you are staying long term in the home, to re-floor in years to come as you are unlikely to be able to re-sand the floor.
Mid-Range Options:Â Between $110 to $180 per square meter, offering a wider range of domestic and exotic species, various thicknesses, and pre-finished options.
Premium Options:Â $180 per square meter and above, featuring high-quality exotic woods, intricate finishes, and specialized installation techniques, wide board profile which Marchand is known for, 20mm thickness to sit flush with standard joinery and extra-long boards of 2.2m.
Remember:Â This is a rough estimate, and actual costs can vary based on specific factors and regional differences.
Consulting a Flooring Specialist
To get an accurate quote for your specific project, it's recommended to consult with us. We can assess your needs, provide expert advice, and offer tailored pricing options.
By considering these factors and seeking professional advice, you can make informed decisions about your engineered flooring investment and achieve a beautiful and durable floor for your New Zealand home.
Don't pay too much for high quality flooring - speak to us today.