Cost GuidesUpdated May 2026By TradeMatch Editorial Team·2 April 2026·Updated 12 April 2026·8 min read
Flooring Installation Costs UK 2026: Laminate, Hardwood, Vinyl & Carpet
New flooring transforms a room, but costs vary hugely depending on the material and room size. Here is a complete breakdown of UK flooring costs in 2026.
Flooring Costs by Material
| Flooring Type | Material (per m²) | Fitting (per m²) | Total (per m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | £8–£25 | £8–£15 | £16–£40 |
| Engineered wood | £20–£60 | £10–£20 | £30–£80 |
| Solid hardwood | £30–£80 | £15–£25 | £45–£105 |
| LVT (Luxury Vinyl) | £20–£50 | £10–£18 | £30–£68 |
| Carpet | £5–£40 | £3–£8 | £8–£48 |
| Ceramic tiles | £15–£50 | £25–£40 | £40–£90 |
For a typical 15m² room, expect to pay £240–£600 for laminate or £450–£1,200 for LVT.
Which Flooring Is Best for Each Room?
- Kitchen — LVT or porcelain tiles (waterproof, durable, easy to clean)
- Bathroom — Vinyl or ceramic tiles (avoid laminate and hardwood)
- Living room — Engineered wood or high-quality laminate
- Bedroom — Carpet for warmth and comfort, or engineered wood
- Hallway — LVT or hardwood (high-traffic durability)
- Conservatory — Porcelain tiles or LVT (handles temperature changes)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to fit new flooring?
A single room (15m²) typically takes 1 day for laminate or LVT, or 1–2 days for hardwood or tiles. A whole house can take 3–5 days depending on the flooring type and subfloor preparation needed.
Should I remove old flooring before fitting new?
Generally yes. Old carpet, vinyl or laminate should be removed before fitting new flooring. Some LVT and laminate can be laid over existing hard flooring if it is level, but your fitter should advise.
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