Is Timber Flooring Worth the Cost? A Breakdown for Sydney Homeowners

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Considering Timber Floors? Here's What Sydney Homeowners Should Know

When it comes to flooring choices, few options match the warmth, style, and long-term value of timber. But for many Sydney homeowners, a common question remains: Is timber flooring really worth the cost?

At AJ Flooring, we’ve been installing timber floors across the Hills District and wider Sydney since 1982. We know the cost can vary widely, and that’s exactly why this guide exists. We’ll walk you through:

The typical cost range of timber flooring in Sydney
What influences the price (and what doesn’t)
How to evaluate value vs. upfront cost
Why many of our clients say it’s the best investment they made in their home

Timber Flooring Cost in Sydney: A Snapshot

Here’s a quick breakdown of average prices for timber flooring (supply + install) based on current Sydney market rates:

Timber Flooring Type	Cost per m² (incl. installation)
Solid Timber Flooring	$120 – $180
Engineered Timber Flooring	$90 – $140
Floating Timber Floors	$75 – $120
Timber Floor Sanding & Polishing	$35 – $65

Note: Pricing depends on timber species, board size, subfloor condition, installation method, and finish type.

🛠️ Real Experience: “We often help homeowners decide between engineered and solid timber based on budget and long-term goals. It’s not about upselling, it’s about fit.” – David, Owner at AJ Flooring

Our Awards

Honoured For Excellence: 2023 Runner Up for Our Timber Deck

ATFA Winner: 2024 Pre-finished Stair NSW/ACT Winner

Trades Champions 2024 Finalist

Australian Small Business Champion Awards 2025 Finalist

What Affects Timber Flooring Cost in Sydney?

1. Type of Timber

Australian Species (like Spotted Gum, Blackbutt): More expensive, premium durability
European Oak: Stylish and widely available, moderate to high cost
Engineered Timber: More affordable, especially for renovations

2. Installation Complexity

Direct stick/glue-down = more prep and labour
Floating floors = quicker, cheaper installation
Stairs, herringbone patterns, and tricky layouts = higher labour

3. Subfloor Condition

Concrete slab vs. timber baseboards
Need for levelling, plywood or acoustic underlay
Removal of existing floors (tiles, carpet)

4. Finish Options

Satin, matte, gloss polyurethane
Natural oils or water-based finishes
Custom staining or colour matching

✅ Tip from the Field: “Sometimes the best value isn’t in the cheapest job, it’s in a job done once, properly, and lasting for decades. That’s what we focus on.” – Fiona, AJ Flooring

Is Timber Flooring Worth It? Let’s Talk Value

Here’s why many homeowners (especially in areas like West Pennant Hills, Wahroonga, and Beecroft) choose timber flooring despite the higher upfront cost:

✅ Boosts Property Value

Timber floors are a major selling point. Real estate agents consistently cite timber as one of the top flooring choices to increase buyer appeal and property valuation.

✅ Long-Term Durability

A well-maintained solid timber floor can last 30–50 years. Even engineered boards, when properly chosen, can last 20+ years and be refinished.

✅ Timeless Aesthetic

Trends come and go, but Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, and European Oak will always be in style.

✅ Low-Allergen & Eco-Friendly

Unlike carpet, timber doesn’t trap dust, pet dander, or allergens. Sustainable sourcing options (e.g., FSC-certified products) make it a smart green choice.

Comparing Timber to Other Flooring Options

Flooring Type	Avg Cost/m²	Lifespan	Adds Home Value?	Refinishing Possible?
Solid Timber	$120–$180	30–50 yrs	✅	✅ Yes, many times
Engineered Timber	$90–$140	20–30 yrs	✅	✅ 1–2 times
Laminate	$40–$70	10–15 yrs	❌	❌
Vinyl Plank	$50–$90	15–20 yrs	❌	❌
Carpet	$40–$100	7–15 yrs	❌	❌

Our Process

Expert Supervision & Unmatched Experience on Every Flooring Project

🏆 Meet David Smith – A True Timber Flooring Authority

David holds some of the highest qualifications in the industry, ensuring that your timber flooring project meets the strictest quality standards:

✔ Technical Timber Flooring Qualification – National Skills Training Organisation (RTO: 45438).
✔ Certified Supervisor – Licensed by Service NSW.
✔ ATFA Accredited Training – Completed over a dozen advanced courses, including:

Accessing Timber Floors – Ensuring the right flooring for the right space.
Advanced Floor Inspector – Identifying and resolving flooring issues with expert precision.
✔ Cert III & IV in Timber Technology – Mastery of timber characteristics, treatments, and installation techniques.

With David’s decades of expertise and advanced technical knowledge, you can trust that every flooring project is handled with the utmost skill, attention to detail, and professionalism.

Our Work – Stunning Timber Flooring Transformations

Avoid Costly Flooring Mistakes:

Learn how to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and ensure flawless results.

The Smart & Sustainable Choice: Why Wood is Better for Your Home and the Environment

Sustainable Timber Flooring with Bona Certified Finishes

At AJ Flooring, we believe that beautiful timber flooring should go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. That’s why we use Bona Certified finishes, a globally trusted solution for eco-friendly, durable, and safe floor treatments. With over 100 years of innovation, Bona leads the way in sustainable flooring solutions, ensuring that every finish we apply is designed to protect your floors, your home, and the planet.

Bona is dedicated to minimising environmental impact across the entire lifecycle of its products. Their sustainability commitment includes:

✔ Water-Based Finishes & Low VOC Formulas – Reducing air pollution and eliminating harmful chemicals found in traditional solvent-based finishes.
✔ Renewable & Biodegradable Ingredients – Designed to be safe for both indoor air quality and the environment.
✔ Non-Toxic, Low-Odour & Family-Friendly – Ideal for homes with children, pets, and allergy sufferers.

By choosing Bona Certified finishes, you are investing in a flooring solution that supports responsible resource use, cleaner indoor air, and a healthier planet.

Ready to Chat About Costs?

📞 Call 0408 659 109
📍 Visit Us in West Pennant Hills
👉 Request a Measure & Quote Today

✅ Transparent Pricing
✅ Local Hills District Experts
✅ Friendly, Pressure-Free Advice Since 1982

FAQs: Timber Flooring Costs in Sydney

Can I get timber flooring on a tight budget?

Yes, engineered timber or floating options offer lower prices while still looking stunning. We tailor quotes based on your space and goals.

Is it cheaper to sand and polish existing floors?

If your existing boards are in good condition, refinishing is often 50–70% cheaper than new flooring. See our Floor Sanding & Polishing service.

How do I know what’s best for my home?

That’s where our team comes in. We offer free measure-and-quote consultations and bring product samples to you.

Final Verdict: Timber Flooring = Smart Long-Term Value

Yes, timber flooring in Sydney costs more upfront. But when you factor in its beauty, durability, property value boost, and decades-long lifespan, it’s absolutely worth the investment.

With AJ Flooring, you don’t just get beautiful floors. You get honest advice, expert installation, and a family-owned team that treats your home like our own.