![How Much Does It Cost to Replace Carpet With Laminate? [2025 Data]](https://readyremodel.io/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/worker-processing-floor-with-laminated-flooring-boards.jpg)
If you’re considering upgrading your home flooring from worn-out carpet to stylish laminate, you’re probably wondering about the cost to replace carpet with laminate flooring. Whether you’re after a fresh look or easier maintenance, laminate is a popular choice. In 2025, the price to change carpet to laminate floor cost typically ranges between $3 and $13 per square foot. This wide range reflects factors such as the material quality, labor charges, and necessary prep work. On average, homeowners might spend around $3,200, but depending on room size and other variables, it could be as low as $1,600 or as high as $5,400. Ready Remodel brings you an up-to-date, detailed cost analysis so you can budget smartly and make informed decisions.
Average Cost to Install Laminate Flooring
The average cost to install laminate flooring is usually between $3 to $13 per square foot. For example, in a 200-square-foot room, expect to pay approximately $600 to $2,600. The exact cost depends on your choice of laminate type and finish. Exotic wood-look laminates like hickory tend to be on the pricier side, while more common finishes like oak or maple come at a lower cost. Project size, regional labor rates, and availability of materials also play a role in the final bill.
Understanding these price points helps you make a balanced decision between style, durability, and budget.
Key Factors Affecting the Cost to Replace Carpet With Laminate
When calculating the cost of replacing your carpet with laminate flooring, several components come into play:
1. Carpet Removal Cost per Square Foot
Before installing laminate, the existing carpet must be removed. The cost to rip up carpet ranges from about $1 to $5 per square foot. This typically covers removal, hauling, and disposal expenses. For smaller rooms, the total carpet removal cost might be $100 – $500 depending on the area, but for larger spaces, it can reach $2,000 or more.
| Room Size (Feet) | Square Footage | Typical Carpet Removal Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | 100 | $100 – $500 |
| 10×12 | 120 | $120 – $600 |
| 12×12 | 144 | $144 – $720 |
| 12×14 | 168 | $168 – $840 |
| 14×16 | 224 | $224 – $1,120 |
| 16×16 | 256 | $256 – $1,280 |
| 18×18 | 324 | $324 – $1,620 |
| 18×20 | 360 | $360 – $1,800 |
| 20×20 | 400 | $400 – $2,000 |
2. Choice of Wood-Look and Laminate Type
The type of wood pattern your laminate mimics heavily influences the cost. More exotic species and premium looks cost more.
| Wood-Look Type | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Acacia | $1.00 |
| Cherry | $1.00 |
| Beech | $1.00 |
| Hickory | $2.00 |
| Maple | $0.70 |
| Red Oak | $0.70 |
| White Oak | $0.70 |
| Walnut | $0.90 |
3. Laminate Texture and Finish
Laminate flooring is available with different textures and finishes, which affect the overall cost as well. Smooth laminate comes cheaper but is prone to visible dents and flaws. Alternatively, textured laminate tends to hide imperfections better but costs slightly more.
As for finishes, you can find options like matte, semi-matte, or glossy. Matte finishes are typically more budget-friendly but show dirt more easily, while glossy finishes add a polished look albeit at a higher price.
| Laminate Finish | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Matte | $1.00 – $4.40 |
| Semi-matte | $1.00 – $4.00 |
| Glossy | $1.70 – $5.60 |
4. Laminate Thickness
Thickness affects durability and price. Standard thickness ranges between 6mm and 12mm, with thicker boards costing more but offering increased robustness during use and installation.
Typical prices for thickness levels:
- 6 millimeters: $0.70 to $1 per square foot
- 12 millimeters: $2.30 to $6 per square foot
Additional Costs to Factor In
Aside from materials and carpet removal, several other expenses may increase your total project cost:
- Labor Costs: Installing laminate ranges from $2 to $8 per square foot. Carpet removal companies generally charge $1 to $5 per square foot including disposal and cleanup.
- Subfloor Preparation or Repairs: Repairing the subfloor can cost between $1 and $7 per square foot in materials, plus labor. Homeowners often spend $500 – $700 for minor repairs or up to $3,000 to replace subflooring.
- Furniture Removal: Depending on your contractor, furniture may be removed for a flat fee of $100 to $200 or charged per item.
- Carpet Disposal: If you remove carpet yourself, disposal costs about 40 to 50 cents per square foot.
- Location Considerations: Removing carpet from hard-to-reach areas, like stairs, can add to costs, typically $2 to $20 per stair.
- Installing New Padding: Adding an underlayment or pad costs around $30 to $60 per 100-square-foot roll, improving comfort and floor stability.
Carpet vs. Laminate Flooring: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between carpet and laminate flooring involves weighing several factors. Carpet offers warmth, noise reduction, and softness, ideal for cozy areas. However, it requires more maintenance and doesn’t resist moisture well.
Laminate flooring is durable, easier to maintain, and water-resistant, making it suitable for high-traffic or moisture-prone areas. It also lends a sophisticated look that can elevate the space.
Here is a comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Carpet | Laminate Flooring |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth | Yes | No |
| Durability | No | Yes |
| Installation Cost | Lower | Moderate |
| High-End Appearance | No | Yes |
| Maintenance | More | Less |
| Water Resistance | No | Yes |
| Noise Reduction | Yes | No |
| Allergy-Friendly | No | Yes |
| Hides Dirt | Yes | No |
| Easy Installation | Yes | Yes |
Replacing Carpet With Laminate: DIY vs Professional Installation
Thinking about taking on the replacement project yourself? While removing carpet and installing laminate can be a rewarding DIY job, it’s labor-intensive and requires attention to detail. A DIY project may save you $3 to $13 per square foot on labor, but mistakes in installation could cost far more in repairs later.
Hiring a professional ensures a smoother process with reliable results, particularly if you lack experience with flooring installation. Contractors will handle prep, removal, installation, and cleanup efficiently, though this convenience adds to the overall cost.
How Ready Remodel Sources Its Cost Data
At Ready Remodel, we are committed to transparency and accuracy. Our cost figures come from extensive research including labor statistics, market surveys, and direct interviews with flooring and carpet removal professionals. Our goal is to help homeowners like you make confident choices based on up-to-date and reliable pricing information.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Laminate
How long does it take to remove carpet and install laminate flooring?
Do I need to remove carpet glue before installing laminate?
Can I recycle my old carpet?
When should I repair my carpet instead of replacing it?
Ready Remodel encourages you to evaluate your home flooring needs carefully and choose options that balance budget, durability, and style. If you want expert assistance or cost estimates for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help make your remodeling easy and affordable!
