Sheet Vinyl is Cheap Flooring If sheet vinyl does take a real beating at your home, it is so cheap that getting it replaced shouldn't break the bank. Especially since it's commonplace to place new sheet vinyl right on top of an old installation.
Laminate flooring is the cheapest option. You can check local home hardware store in your area or try online retailers like Builddirect.com or ifloor.com or lumberliquidators you can look online or order samples to see the quality etc.
Linoleum or Floating laminate floors are the cheapest because they can be installed without a professional, you install it yourself. Typically you will fill some holes with fix-all or plaster and sand some high spots (sometimes remove some staples or nails). And lay down the floor.
Refinishing a floor is almost always substantially less than replacing it because replacing involves additional costs for demolition, new wood, and installation. I received estimates for both options and was surprised that refinishing cost 1/4 the price of new floors.
By sanding your floors yourself, you could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars—so long as you do it right. Here's what you need to know before you get started. First, you need to understand the condition your floor is in.
If you only have some minor scratches and dings or a dull finish, you might be able to simply buff and add a new coat of varnish. But, even if your floors need a complete makeover, refinishing hardwood is a very manageable and rewarding do-it-yourself job that can save a lot of money.
Flooring Installation Cost Per Square Foot
The costs can range from less than $1 square foot for laminate flooring to more than $10 a square foot for higher-end brands. That's why the average floor installation varies from $1,000 to $10,000 for a 500-square-foot room.
The most affordable flooring option for a kitchen that can be installed over existing tiles without removing them is Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Vinyl Tiling. It's a great option because it's waterproof, easy to install, and can mimic the look of ceramic or wood at a fraction of the cost.
Laminate flooring is one of the easiest types to install over hardwood. There is virtually no preparation that is required. If, however, the hardwood flooring underneath is wavy, you will want to level it before placing laminate over it.
DIY Flooring Ideas on a Budget: Plywood Planks
There are two ways you can go with this flooring option: Remove the existing flooring and refinish the plywood subfloor beneath, or install new plywood, cut into planks or any creative design you choose, on top of an existing subfloor.
Sure, tackling a flooring project yourself might seem like a cost-saving superhero move, but it often turns into a DIY disaster. Professional floor installers bring years of experience and a magical touch to ensure that your hardwood or laminate floors don't end up resembling a Picasso painting.
As far as hard surface flooring is concerned, particle board subflooring will limit you to a floating vinyl plank floor or laminate floor. Sublfoor leveling is a very difficult and costly task on particle board. If the subfloor is not smooth enough for a plank floor, then we would only be able to install carpet.
Peel and stick vinyl flooring is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday life. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, ensuring that it maintains its appearance over time.
The only thing you MAY get for free from any contractor / installer is an “evaluation” or measuring service (mostly for carpet or other floor covering projects, but can be for other projects such as kitchen cabinets). This goes for Lowes, Home Depot or any other contractor.
Laminate flooring tends to cost $2 to $11 per square foot depending on the quality of the flooring. Also be sure to budget $4 to $8 for labor and installation per square foot installed, depending on labor costs in your area. Labor costs should also include underlayment for the flooring.
While costs are similar, the value of premium vinyl far exceeds that of laminate based on quality and value. Unlike laminate, premium vinyl is durable and stable, resistant to moisture and climate, and is easy to install and maintain. Laminate is restricted to light traffic and low moisture applications.