Laminate flooring has become a popular and cost-effective option for UK homes, providing the look of wood at a fraction of the price. Low maintenance and easy to install, laminate flooring doesn’t seem to be going anywhere yet.

In this guide, we’ll give you an idea of how much laminate flooring costs to install and what to expect from your fitter. 

How much does laminate flooring cost?

The supply cost of laminate flooring varies hugely, from budget options at around £10 per square metre to premium choices that can cost £60 per m² or more. 

A flooring specialist will usually charge around £20 per square metre to fit laminate flooring, but let’s look at the costs in more detail below:

Factors affecting the cost of laminate flooring

The exact cost of your laminate flooring project will depend on a number of factors, including quality, size of your room and your location:

• Quality and thickness: Higher quality laminate is usually thicker and more durable, which costs more but offers a more solid feel and should last longer.
• Area/size: Larger rooms or entire floor installations will increase material and labour costs.
• Subfloor condition: Uneven subfloors may require levelling before installation, adding to the overall cost. Your fitter may need to lay a levelling compound first to smooth out bumps and dips.
• Additional services: If you need your flooring specialist to remove your old flooring, add insulation or install underlay, you should expect to pay more. Removing old flooring, adding insulation or installing underlay can all impact the total price.
• Location: Flooring specialist rates vary across the UK. Fitters in London and the south east tend to charge the most, while more rural areas tend to have the cheapest rates.

Check out our UK flooring specialist rates table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate idea of how much a flooring specialist will charge to fit laminate flooring. We get our data from tradespeople across the UK to help you budget for your home improvement projects.

Cost of vinyl vs laminate flooring

If you’re weighing up whether to get vinyl or laminate flooring, you should understand the cost of each type of flooring and what you get for your money. Vinyl flooring, which often comes in sheets or tiles, usually costs between £10 and £30 per square metre, making it slightly cheaper than laminate flooring.

However, a new product called luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) has come on the market in recent years. This type of vinyl flooring is made up of different layers, improving durability, soundproofing and comfort underfoot. LVT is generally more expensive than laminate, starting at around £30 per m², but can provide better durability and comfort so may be a better choice in the long term.

Vinyl is known for its water resistance, so if you’re looking to replace the flooring in your kitchen or bathroom vinyl may be the best option. Laminate tends to be most popular in living areas where style and comfort are the biggest concerns.

Advantages and disadvantages of laminate flooring

It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of any material you’re thinking of using in your home. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of laminate flooring to consider:

Is carpet cheaper than laminate?

Carpet and laminate flooring are generally similar in cost, but laminate tends to be slightly more expensive. Basic carpet options start around £5-£10 per square metre with mid-range options starting at around £20 per m². 

Laminate flooring tends to start from £10 per square metre with mid-range options starting at around £30, so for larger areas, the cost difference may begin to add up. 

That said, carpets may require more frequent replacement, so laminate may be cheaper in the long term. 

What's the difference between cheap and expensive laminate flooring?

It’s important to understand the differences between cheap and expensive laminate so you can make an informed decision about the product you choose.

The key differences between budget and high-end laminate include:

• Thickness: High-end laminate is thicker, providing a sturdier feel.
• Wear layer: Premium laminates have a thicker wear layer, increasing scratch and moisture resistance.
• Design and texture: High-quality laminate often features more realistic textures and detailed designs, so they look more like stone or wood.
• Warranty: Premium products usually come with extended warranties, reflecting their longevity.

Does laminate need underlay?

Yes, most fitters will recommend underlay for laminate flooring, as it offers benefits such as:

• Noise reduction: Reduces the sound when walked on, preventing echoing 
• Moisture barrier: Some underlays help protect against moisture, particularly when laid over concrete.
• Comfort: Provides a cushioned layer, making the floor more comfortable underfoot.
• Heat insulation: Underlay can help retain heat, which is especially useful for homes without underfloor heating.

Does laminate flooring add value to your home?

Laminate flooring can add value to your home, especially if it improves your property’s aesthetic appeal or replaces outdated flooring. It’s a cost-effective way to upgrade rooms, especially living areas and hallways. However, don’t expect it to increase your home’s value as much as high-end flooring options like hardwood or tiles.

Can I install laminate flooring myself?

You can install laminate flooring yourself, especially if it’s a modern click-lock system where each plank clicks into place without glue or other fixings. If you’re comfortable with DIY and have the right tools, you may be able to fit it yourself.

However, it’s always worth weighing up the money saved on labour vs your time and potential mistakes. If you get stuck cutting complex edges or run out of time, it may cost you more to get a professional in to finish the job.

Ready to get quotes for your laminate flooring project? Post your job on HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with reliable flooring specialists in your area.

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