Cork Flooring Cost in 2024

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Key Takeaways

Average Cost (Materials + Labor): $5–$19 per square foot
DIY Cost (Materials Only): $3–$12 per square foot
Labor Costs: $2–$9 per square foot

Types of Cork Flooring

| Type | Cost (Per Square Foot) | Notes | |--------------------------|---------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | Tiles | $3–$7 | Glued down; ideal for moisture-prone areas. | | Planks | $4–$9 | Floating installation; easier for DIY projects. | | Natural Cork | $3–$6 | Classic cork look; eco-friendly. | | Colored Cork | $7–$8.50 | Wide variety of bold or neutral colors. | | Striata | $8–$10.50 | Marbled appearance; natural or colored options. | | Printed Cork | $4–$9.50 | Mimics wood, stone, or creative patterns. | | Luxury Vinyl Cork | $3–$7 | Durable with water-resistant vinyl surface. | | Waterproof Cork | $5–$9 | Best for bathrooms and kitchens; glue-down type. |

Cork Flooring Cost by Thickness

| Thickness | Cost (Per Square Foot) | Best For | |---------------|----------------------------|-------------------------------------| | 4 mm | $3–$6 | Standard use; light foot traffic. | | 8 mm | $5–$8 | Added insulation and durability. | | 12 mm | $7–$10 | High traffic areas; extra cushioning.|

Room Size Cost Estimates

| Room Size (Feet) | Square Footage | Cost Range | |-----------------------|--------------------|------------------------| | 10x10 ft | 100 sq. ft | $500–$1,900 | | 12x14 ft | 168 sq. ft | $840–$3,200 | | 16x20 ft | 320 sq. ft | $1,600–$6,100 | | 22x28 ft | 616 sq. ft | $3,100–$11,700 |

Additional Costs to Consider

Preparation

Subfloor Leveling: $3–$5 per square foot
Subfloor Repairs: $2–$10 per square foot
Joist Repairs: $10–$60 per square foot

Sealant

Cost: $0.30–$0.70 per square foot
Frequency: Every 3–10 years for maintenance.

Floor Removal

| Floor Type | Cost (Per Square Foot) |
|---------------------|---------------------------|
| Carpet | $1–$1.50 |
| Tile | $2–$7 |
| Glued Flooring | $1.50–$3.50 |

Maintenance

Regular Cleaning: Use pH-balanced cleaners or vinegar-water mix.
Resealing: $0.30–$0.70 per square foot every 3–10 years.

Repairs

Typical Costs: $60–$120 per hour + materials.
Common Issues: Scratches, nicks, or water damage.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

| Installation Type | Cost (Per Square Foot) | Notes | |------------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------------| | DIY | $3–$12 | Tools & materials only. | | Hiring a Pro | $5–$19 | Includes labor + materials. |

DIY Installation Costs

Self-Leveling Compound: $30–$40 per bag (covers 5–40 sq. ft).
Sealant: $45–$100.

Challenges of DIY

Improper installation can lead to:
Gaps between seams.
Swelling or buckling.
Water damage to subfloors.

How to Save Money on Cork Flooring

Choose Floating Planks: Easier and cheaper to install than glue-down tiles.
Stick to Natural Cork: Budget-friendly and eco-friendly.
DIY Floor Removal: Save on labor costs for removing carpet or floating floors.
Plan Ahead: Look for sales on materials or sealant.
Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three flooring contractors.

Cork flooring is a versatile, eco-friendly option with aesthetic and functional appeal.