Flooring Material Comparison
| Type | Cost/sq ft | Lifespan | DIY Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $1–5 | 15–25 years | Yes — click-lock |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | $2–7 | 15–25 years | Yes — peel & stick or click |
| Engineered Hardwood | $3–10 | 20–40 years | Moderate |
| Solid Hardwood | $5–12 | 50–100+ years | Difficult — needs nailer |
| Ceramic Tile | $1–8 | 50+ years | Moderate — thinset, grout |
| Porcelain Tile | $3–15 | 50+ years | Moderate |
| Carpet | $1–8 + pad | 5–15 years | No — needs stretcher |
Why Waste Factor Matters
Every flooring job generates offcuts from corners, doorways, and pattern alignment. Using the right waste factor prevents running short mid-project—replacing a single box later often means a different dye lot that won’t match your existing floor.
Standard guideline: 10% for straight-lay rectangular rooms, 15% for diagonal patterns, 20% for herringbone or complex room shapes. Always round up to full boxes.
FAQ
How much waste should I add?
10% for straight layouts, 15% for diagonal, 20% for herringbone or complex shapes.
How do I measure oddly shaped rooms?
Break into rectangles and triangles, calculate each section, add them up, then add waste.
How much does flooring cost?
Laminate: $1-5/sq ft. Hardwood: $3-12/sq ft. Add $2-8/sq ft for professional labor.