Free Hardwood Flooring Estimate Template (Excel)
Example bid in this template: $22,393 · Timeline: 1 weeks
Real-World Scenario: The Great Room Sand & Fin
Remodeling Planning Ranges (illustrative)
Illustrative ranges for planning, not quotes or a published survey. Replace them with your own supplier prices and labor rates.
Materials Cost Breakdown
Direct Material| Line Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White Oak 3-1/4 inch | $6,200 | 880 sq ft including waste |
| Abrasives & Finish | $850 | Bona Traffic HD system |
| Subfloor Prep Mat | $320 | Silicone paper + fasteners |
| Materials Subtotal | $7,370 |
Labor Cost Breakdown
Direct Labor| Task | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Prep | $650 | Scraping and leveling |
| Installation | $3,200 | Cleat nailing |
| Sand & Finish (3 coats) | $2,800 | Dustless sanding |
| Labor Subtotal | $6,650 |
Markup ≠ Margin — Don't Make This Mistake
A 28% markup on $14,020 gives 22% gross margin — not 28%. To hit a true 28% gross margin, divide your cost by 0.72.
→ Verify with the Profit CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How do I estimate a hardwood flooring job?
Measure the square footage, add a waste factor, then price materials, subfloor prep, installation and sanding and finishing separately. Add overhead and divide by (1 minus your target margin) to get the bid price.
How much waste should I allow for?
The example orders 880 sq ft of flooring for an 800 sq ft room, which is a 10% waste allowance for a straight lay. Patterns, diagonal layouts and out-of-square rooms usually need more, so adjust the waste factor to the job.
What does the example cost per square foot?
Direct cost in the example is $14,020 across 800 sq ft, about $17.53 per square foot before overhead and profit. Your own costs will differ with species, grade, finish system and local labor rates.
Why list subfloor prep as its own line?
Subfloor problems are the most common surprise on flooring jobs. A separate prep line, or an allowance with a written change-order clause, keeps uneven or damaged subfloors from coming out of your margin.
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