How we calculate
Buy quantity = room area × (1 + waste). Waste covers cuts and defects: 5% for carpet in simple rooms, 10% for standard plank/tile layouts, 15% for diagonal patterns or many-cornered rooms. Material and labor bands are typical published US ranges per square foot for each material class — your quotes will land inside them in most metros. Underlayment, subfloor repair, baseboards and transitions are extra; ask installers to itemize them.
Frequently asked questions
Why is tile labor so much higher than LVP labor?
Tile needs setting, curing, grouting and often backer board — several skilled steps over multiple visits. Click-lock LVP can be installed in a single visit, sometimes over the existing floor.
Should I buy flooring for closets and hallways too?
Yes — measure them as separate small rectangles and add them in. Transitions between rooms in the same material look best from one dye/product lot.
Is it cheaper to refinish hardwood than replace it?
Usually far cheaper: sanding and refinishing solid hardwood typically costs less than any new floor, and it's why solid wood keeps long-term value.