If you’re thinking about installing hardwood floors in your bedroom, you’re not alone. There’s something about hardwood that makes a space feel warmer, cleaner, and just… better. Carpet has its moment, but hardwood feels like a step up. Literally and figuratively.
But before you start picking out floorboards and tapping them in with a rubber mallet, it’s worth understanding what you’re getting into. The cost, the process, the potential missteps—it’s all part of the deal. Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense, without all the fancy buzzwords and sugarcoating.
The Cost of Installing Hardwood Floors in Bedrooms
Let’s start with what most people really want to know first: how much is this going to cost me?
Hardwood floor installation prices can vary—wildly. On average, you’re looking at somewhere between $6 to $12 per square foot for materials alone. That’s for solid hardwood. If you’re leaning toward engineered hardwood (which is a slightly more budget-friendly option), prices usually range from $4 to $9 per square foot.
Now toss labor into the mix. Professional installation can add another $3 to $8 per square foot. That means if you’re working with a 200-square-foot bedroom, you could be paying anywhere from $1,800 to $4,000. Yep, that’s a big range. And it depends on the type of wood, your location, and how complicated the job is (old floor removal, subfloor leveling, etc.).
Pro tip: Always budget a bit extra. Something always comes up. Maybe there’s water damage under the old floor, or your room’s just not as level as it looked. That extra buffer can save you from surprise headaches.
Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood
Quick sidebar—because a lot of people get stuck here. Should you go with solid hardwood or engineered?
Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like—planks made from a single piece of wood. It’s durable, long-lasting, and can be refinished multiple times. But it can also swell or shrink with humidity changes.
Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, has a thin hardwood veneer on top of a core made of plywood or other wood layers. It’s a bit more stable and a better choice if your bedroom is above a humid crawlspace or in a climate with big seasonal shifts.
Both look great. Both feel great underfoot. But knowing the difference helps you make a smarter choice for your space.
Tips for Laying Hardwood Floor Like a Pro (Or Hiring One Who Is)
If you’re thinking about doing the install yourself—first of all, hats off to you. But know this: laying hardwood floor is not like clicking together laminate planks. It takes precision, the right tools, and a lot of patience.
Here’s a handful of practical tips:
- Acclimate your wood. Let those planks sit in the room for a few days before you start. Wood needs time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity. Skipping this step can lead to gapping or warping later.
- Don’t skimp on underlayment. This is what cushions the floor, helps with sound, and adds a moisture barrier. Even in bedrooms, it matters.
- Plan your layout. Start along the longest wall or a focal point in the room. Think ahead about doorways, closets, and how the boards will flow.
- Leave expansion gaps. Wood expands and contracts. A tiny gap around the perimeter (covered later by baseboards or shoe molding) gives it room to breathe.
Common Mistakes That’ll Cost You Later
This part’s important. A lot of people make the same slip-ups when they install hardwood flooring, and fixing those mistakes afterward is no fun. And expensive.
One of the biggest? Not checking the subfloor. If it’s uneven or damaged, you’re just layering problems on top. Floors can end up squeaky, uneven, or worse—boards can crack.
Another common issue is poor staggering. You don’t want your seams lining up in a uniform pattern. It looks off and weakens the floor structure. A random, natural-looking stagger not only looks better—it performs better.
Also, don’t ignore moisture. Even in bedrooms, moisture from underneath (especially on first floors) can creep in. A vapor barrier is cheap insurance.
And maybe this sounds obvious, but measure carefully. Like, double-check everything. Few things are more frustrating than realizing you’re short by a couple boards with a half-finished room staring at you.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
It’s tempting to DIY, especially if you’ve done a bit of home improvement before. And hey, if you’re comfortable with a nail gun and a table saw, you might be up for it. But don’t underestimate the skill needed.
Professional installers know how to spot trouble before it becomes a real issue. They work faster, make cleaner cuts, and usually leave you with a floor that lasts longer and looks better. If you’re installing hardwood floors in a master bedroom where you really want it to shine, it might be worth the extra money.
But if it’s a guest room or a smaller space and you’re up for the challenge, go for it. Just take your time and do your homework.
Other Things to Think About Before You Install
Ever think about the direction your floorboards run? It makes a difference. Boards laid parallel to the longest wall make the room feel bigger. But boards perpendicular to the floor joists add stability. Sometimes you have to pick between form and function.
Also, furniture. If you’ve got heavy bedroom furniture, consider floor protectors or area rugs to prevent dents. Hardwood’s tough—but it’s not invincible.
And sound. Hardwood floors echo more than carpet. Adding a rug or some soft textiles can help keep the room from sounding like a dance studio.
So, Is It Worth It?
Honestly? Yeah. Hardwood flooring in a bedroom just feels like an upgrade. It looks clean, it lasts, and it adds value to your home. Sure, the upfront cost might sting a little, but it’s one of those home projects that pays off—both visually and practically.
Just go in with a realistic budget, the right expectations, and a solid plan. Whether you’re hiring a crew or installing it yourself, getting it right the first time will save you money, stress, and a few choice words you probably don’t want to say while holding a pry bar.
Take your time. Do it right. And enjoy that first step barefoot on your new hardwood floor. Nothing quite like it.
For further information, please visit Eco-Friendly Hardwood Floors: The Best Sustainable Choices for Your Home | Robar Flooring
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