hardwood flooring

[freeport]

I want to have hardwood flooring installed in my kitchen and dining room. It will be approximately 280sqft. How much can I expect to spend for the hardwood and installation? Have not called anybody yet, waiting to see what everybody said. The existing floor is 2 layers of ceramic tile. Do most installers tear this up too for additional cost? How much to tear up and remove? Just want to get some figures in my head before calling any businesses in town. thanks

[Bumblerazz]

Are you sure you have 2 layers of ceramic tile? I've seen several layers of linoleum or equivalent, but never ceramic.

Yes, they will charge for removal. Since they will be removing, they will also probably charge for evening out the subfloor, assuming it needs it. In most cases when putting down hardwood you don't need to do this unless the subfloor is in really bad shape. Problem is, the "glue" they use to put down ceramic makes it difficult to remove the tiles without scuffing the subfloor, in some cases severely (or by "accident"). Both these actions usually are charged by the hour, or if it's the same guy putting down as ripping up, charged by contract (with surcharges for unexpected difficulties or problems). The amount can vary widely depending on quality, time of year and area.

Same can be said for the hardwood. It can be anywhere from $3 to $10 a square foot depending on wood type, quality and finish. This does not include installation. In my area this is by the hour, though sometimes the guys do enough to know how much by the square foot but that is rare. Keep in mind that you can expect at least two people working.

280ft^2 isn't all that big and as long as there are no unique corners or architecture to build around, you should expect an experienced team to work for around two days (one for the tear up, removal and smoothing, one for laying the hardwood).