Wood is a premium floor, and the gap between engineered and solid is the first thing to understand. Engineered wood is generally a little cheaper and more stable; solid wood costs more but can be refinished many times. Both need skilled fitting, and the finishing method — pre-finished boards versus sanding and oiling on site — affects the total.
Typical UK prices
| Grade / type | Material (per m²) | Fitting (per m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineered (entry) | £30 – £45 | £15 – £22 |
| Engineered (premium) | £45 – £70 | £18 – £28 |
| Solid wood (standard) | £40 – £65 | £20 – £28 |
| Solid wood (premium) | £65 – £90+ | £22 – £30 |
Remember: material and fitting are separate costs. A low material price with high fitting can total more than a mid-range product fitted simply.
What changes the price
- Species and grade — oak, walnut and wider boards cost more.
- Engineered versus solid changes both price and where it can go.
- Fitting method — floating, glued or nailed — affects labour.
- On-site sanding and finishing add cost versus pre-finished boards.
- Underlay, beading and thresholds are extras.
A worked example
A 20m² living room in mid engineered oak at £55/m² is about £1,100 of material. Fitting at £22/m² adds £440, with underlay and trims around £100, totalling roughly £1,640, or about £82/m² all-in. Premium solid wood could push the same room well past £2,200.
Estimate your project: Use the matching calculator to turn your room size into a materials estimate, then request a quote to get real local prices.