How Much Does Herringbone Hardwood Flooring Cost in Toronto?

How Much Does Herringbone Hardwood Flooring Cost in Toronto?

Herringbone hardwood flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses in Toronto, thanks to its timeless elegance and distinct pattern. This unique flooring style enhances any space with its sophisticated look, but its intricate installation process and material costs make it more expensive than standard hardwood flooring.

If you’re considering herringbone flooring for your home or commercial space, understanding the costs involved is crucial. From material prices to labor expenses, this guide will break down the factors influencing the total cost of herringbone flooring in Toronto.

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Factors Affecting Herringbone Hardwood Flooring Costs

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1. Material Selection
​The type of wood species you choose significantly impacts the cost. Common choices for herringbone flooring include:

• Oak (Red or White): $8.00 – $12.00 per square foot
• Exotic Woods (Brazilian Cherry, Walnut, etc.): $12.00 – $15.00 or more per square foot

Higher-end materials and custom finishes will naturally increase the price per square foot.
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2. Installation Complexity & Labor Costs
Unlike traditional straight plank hardwood flooring, herringbone requires more precise cutting and placement. This results in higher labor costs, often ranging between:

• $5.00 – $7.00 per square foot for standard installation

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond materials and labor, other factors can influence the total price of installing herringbone flooring in Toronto.
1. Old Flooring Removal and Subfloor Preparation
Before laying herringbone hardwood, in many cases, the old flooring needs to be removed, and the subfloor must be prepared properly such as screw down the existing plywood or level certain spots. If repairs or adjustments are needed, this can add to the total cost.

• Flooring removal: $0.50 - $3.00 per square foot
• Subfloor preparation: cost varies, depends on what needs to be done.

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2. Finishing & Staining Options
Many homeowners choose prefinished herringbone hardwood, but if you opt for site-finished flooring, extra costs apply:

• Sanding and Staining: $4.70 - $5.50 per square foot

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Total Estimated Cost of Herringbone Hardwood Flooring in Toronto

The total cost of installing herringbone hardwood flooring depends on various factors, but here’s a general estimate based on a 1,000 sq. ft. area:

These prices will vary based on wood type, complexity, and any additional finishing touches.

Why Herringbone Hardwood Flooring is More Expensive than Traditional Straight Hardwood Flooring Installations?

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Herringbone flooring is a premium option compared to standard plank hardwood due to its intricate pattern and labor-intensive installation process. Here’s why it costs more:
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1. Increased Labor Time
Unlike straight-laid hardwood, herringbone requires precise angling and alignment, which takes significantly more time. The added labor can increase installation costs by 30% – 50% compared to standard hardwood flooring.

2. Material Waste Factor
Due to the angled cuts needed for the herringbone pattern, there is more material waste than with standard plank installations. It’s recommended to order 15% – 20% more wood than the actual square footage needed to account for waste.

3. Precision Cutting & Customization
Each plank must be cut precisely to fit the pattern, requiring skilled craftsmanship. Additionally, if you opt for custom staining, or exotic wood species, the cost can increase further.

How to Save Money on Herringbone Hardwood Flooring in Toronto

If you want to achieve the luxury look of herringbone without overspending, consider these cost-saving strategies:
1. Choose an Affordable Wood Species
Opting for oak or maple instead of exotic hardwoods like walnut or mahogany can help reduce costs while still providing a high-end look.

2. Go with Prefinished Herringbone Flooring
Prefinished herringbone planks eliminate the need for on-site sanding and staining, reducing labor costs. This can save $4.00 – $6.00 per sq. ft. in finishing expenses.

3. Hire an Experienced Installer
While hiring a cheaper, inexperienced installer may seem like a way to cut costs, mistakes in herringbone installations can be costly to fix. Look for a professional with herringbone-specific experience to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
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4. Remove Old Flooring Yourself
If you’re comfortable with DIY tasks, removing your old flooring before the installers arrive can save you in labor costs.

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FAQ: Herringbone Hardwood Flooring Costs & Installation in Toronto

1. Is herringbone flooring worth the extra cost?
Yes, herringbone flooring adds a luxurious and timeless appeal to any space. It also increases property value due to its high-end look and durability.

2. How much extra material should I order for herringbone flooring?
It’s recommended to order 15% – 20% extra to account for the additional waste created by the angled cuts needed for the pattern.

3. Is herringbone flooring more expensive than straight-laid hardwood?
Yes, herringbone flooring costs 30% – 50% more due to the intricate pattern, precision cutting, and longer installation time.

4. How long does it take to install herringbone flooring?
The installation time depends on the room size and wood type, but generally, herringbone flooring takes twice as long to install compared to standard plank hardwood.

5. Can I install herringbone flooring myself?
Herringbone flooring requires precise measurements and expert craftsmanship. DIY installation is not recommended unless you have professional experience in hardwood flooring.

6. What is the best wood species for herringbone flooring?
Oak and maple are the most popular choices due to their durability and affordability. Exotic woods like walnut or mahogany will be more expensive.

7. Does herringbone flooring require special maintenance?
No, it requires the same care as standard hardwood floors. Regular sweeping, occasional mopping with a hardwood-safe cleaner, and avoiding excessive moisture will help maintain its beauty.
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8. Can herringbone flooring be installed over concrete?
Yes, but it requires a proper subfloor preparation, and also underlayment if installed in a condo. Also, engineered hardwood floor would be requierd in order to install it over concrete.