As a flooring expert with years of experience in the industry, I've seen a variety of flooring options come and go, but one thing that remains constant is the need for a durable, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution. When it comes to replacing carpet with laminate, there are several factors to consider, including the cost of materials, labor, and the specific conditions of your home.

Cost of Materials
Laminate flooring is a popular choice due to its affordability compared to hardwood or stone. The cost of laminate flooring can vary greatly depending on the quality, brand, and design. On average, laminate flooring costs range from $1 to $5 per square foot for the material alone. However, high-end laminates that mimic the look of real wood or stone can cost upwards of $10 per square foot.

Cost of Installation
The cost of installation is another significant factor. Professional installation can add anywhere from $2 to $5 per square foot to the total cost. This means that for a 500 square foot project, you could be looking at an additional $1000 to $2500 just for labor. Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the experience of the installer.

Removal of Old Carpet
Before the new laminate can be installed, the old carpet must be removed. This can be a DIY project if you're up for it, but hiring professionals to remove and dispose of the carpet can cost around $1 to $3 per square foot, adding to the overall project cost.

Subfloor Preparation
The condition of your subfloor is crucial for the installation of laminate flooring. If the subfloor is uneven, it may need to be leveled, which can add to the cost. Subfloor preparation can range from $0.50 to $2 per square foot, depending on the work required.

Additional Costs
There may be additional costs for things like transition strips, molding, and underlayment. Transition strips, which are used to transition from one type of flooring to another, can cost between $5 and $20 each. Moldings, which are used to cover the expansion gap around the perimeter of the room, can add another $100 to $200 to the project. Underlayment, which provides a smooth surface for the laminate and helps with noise reduction, can cost around $0.50 per square foot.

Total Cost
Taking all these factors into account, the total cost to replace carpet with laminate flooring for a 500 square foot area can range from a low of around $2,500 to a high of over $7,000 or more. This includes the cost of materials, installation, removal of old carpet, subfloor preparation, and additional costs for accessories.

It's important to get multiple quotes from different flooring companies to ensure you're getting the best price and service for your project. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best in terms of quality and durability. Investing a bit more upfront can save you money and hassle in the long run.

read more >>

Laminate wood and stone floors are also more durable and made for high traffic areas. Laminate flooring costs about $2,772.00 for a typical project of around 500 square feet, or around $5.50 per square foot installed.read more >>