When it comes to timeless home upgrades, few projects offer the warmth and durability of hardwood floors. At Chicago Home Remodel, we’ve helped countless homeowners throughout the city achieve polished, functional spaces with the right flooring choices. If you’re curious about what it takes to get new hardwood floors installed in your Chicago home, from the cost to the type of wood to choose, we’ve laid it all out below.
Start Smart with Hardwood Floor Installers Chicago Homeowners Trust
Hiring the right team for the job is just as important as picking the right material. We’ve worked with homes across the city, from vintage walkups to modern condos, and every floor brings its own challenges.
Working with hardwood floor installers Chicago clients rely on means more than just good craftsmanship; it means understanding subfloors, local humidity, and the finish that holds up through all four seasons.
What to expect with professional installers:
- Accurate measurement and material estimates
- Subfloor preparation and leveling
- Fast, clean installation with minimal disruption
- Options for both solid and engineered hardwood
- Recommendations for stain and finish based on lifestyle
Breaking Down Chicago Hardwood Flooring Costs by Material and Labor
As with most remodeling services, your flooring budget will depend on the material you choose and the size of your space. We help clients find the right fit for their budget and lifestyle without cutting corners.
Common cost ranges for Chicago hardwood flooring:
- Solid hardwood: $8–$15 per sq. ft. (materials)
- Engineered hardwood: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
- Installation labor: $4–$8 per sq. ft.
- Add-ons: Removal of old flooring, baseboard replacement, and underlayment
Other price factors to consider:
- Floor layout (angles and tight spaces require more time)
- Accessibility of your home or unit (stairs, elevators)
- Time of year (winter installs need extra care for acclimation)
- Custom stain or finish requests
Popular Wood Species and Finishes for Chicago Homes
Not all hardwood is created equal. Choosing the right species, grade, and finish affects both the look and performance of your floors. Here’s what we see most often in Chicago homes.
Our top recommendations:
- Oak (Red or White): Durable, affordable, classic grain
- Maple: Smooth grain with a modern look, slightly harder than oak
- Hickory: Distinctive grain with high durability, great for busy homes
- Walnut: Deep tones, softer underfoot, luxurious feel
- Engineered hardwood: Stable, layered construction perfect for basements and condos
Finish types we often suggest:
- Matte polyurethane: Best for hiding wear over time
- Satin finish: Popular for its balance of sheen and low maintenance
- Oil-based stains: Richer color, longer drying time
- Water-based finishes: Faster dry, lower VOCs, eco-friendlier
Timeline to Expect from Hardwood Floor Installation
We know timing matters. Whether you’re remodeling one room or several, the process needs to be clear from the start. While no two jobs are the same, here’s a typical timeline for residential hardwood floor installers Chicago customers can expect:
General timeline:
- Day 1: Delivery and acclimation of wood
- Day 2–3: Removal of existing flooring
- Day 4–6: Installation of new planks
- Day 7–8: Sanding and finishing (if applicable)
- Day 9–10: Final inspection and walkthrough
Drying or curing time depends on the finish used. For oil-based sealants, we recommend waiting 48–72 hours before moving furniture back in.
Tips to Protect Your New Floors for Years to Come
Installing hardwood is just the beginning. We always guide our clients through aftercare to keep their floors looking great long after we’re done.
Here’s what we suggest for care and maintenance:
- Place felt pads under furniture legs to avoid scratches
- Use area rugs in high-traffic zones like hallways and entries
- Clean regularly with a dry mop or soft-bristle vacuum attachment
- Avoid excess water; hardwood doesn’t mix well with moisture
- Consider seasonal humidity controls to prevent gaps or swelling
Why Homeowners Choose Us for Chicago Hardwood Flooring Projects
As a local contractor, we bring more than tools; we bring real experience with Chicago’s housing stock. From bungalows to lofts, we know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to flooring materials and layout.
We don’t overpromise. We do the work right, explain the options clearly, and finish projects the way we’d want them done in our own homes.
What makes us different:
- We keep your project on schedule and within your budget
- We explain every material and design choice before you commit
- We respect your space and clean up when we’re done
- We treat every floor as part of your bigger home vision
Plan Your Hardwood Floor Installation with Our Local Experts
Chicago Home Remodel has years of experience working with hardwood flooring in homes across the city. Our team brings the tools, knowledge, and care needed to ensure every floor is installed with precision and attention to detail. From choosing the right wood type to finishing the last plank, we make sure the process feels organized and stress-free.
If you’re ready to explore your options with trusted hardwood floor installers Chicago homeowners consistently recommend, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free in-home consultation and take the first step toward beautiful, long-lasting flooring.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does hardwood flooring installation usually cost in Chicago?
Installation costs typically range from $8 to $20 per square foot, depending on the type of wood, condition of the subfloor, and labor complexity.
2. What’s the difference between solid and engineered hardwood floors?
Solid hardwood is a single piece of wood throughout, while engineered hardwood is layered for added stability, ideal for basements or moisture-prone areas.
3. What should I do to prepare my home before installation begins?
We recommend clearing the space of furniture, removing fragile items, and ensuring access to power outlets for equipment during the installation process.
4. Is Chicago hardwood flooring a good option for older homes?
Yes, Chicago hardwood flooring works well in older homes. Our team can assess subfloors and recommend wood types that suit your home’s structure and style.
5. How long will the installation process take from start to finish?
Most hardwood flooring jobs are completed in 3 to 7 days, depending on the size of the area and whether existing floors need to be removed first.