How much does it cost to remove old laminate flooring and install new laminate in a NB home?

Removing old laminate and installing new laminate typically costs $6-$12 per square foot fully completed in New Brunswick, with most homeowners paying $8-$10/sq ft for standard-grade laminate in straightforward layouts.

For a typical 800 square foot main floor, expect to budget $4,800-$9,600 total. This breaks down to approximately $1-$3/sq ft for old laminate removal, $2-$5/sq ft for new laminate materials, and $2-$4/sq ft for professional installation including underlayment.

Old laminate removal is generally straightforward since most floating laminate floors aren't glued down. The planks lift up easily once you remove the baseboards and start at one wall. However, removal costs vary significantly based on what's underneath. If the old laminate was installed over existing hardwood that you want to preserve, removal requires more care and time. If there's old adhesive or multiple layers of flooring, removal becomes more complex and expensive.

New laminate material costs in New Brunswick range from budget options at $2-$3/sq ft up to premium AC5-rated laminate with realistic wood visuals at $4-$6/sq ft. For NB's Maritime humidity conditions, choose laminate with water-resistant or waterproof core technology, especially for kitchens, bathrooms, and basement installations. Standard HDF core laminate can swell and delaminate when exposed to the moisture cycles common in New Brunswick homes.

Installation factors that affect pricing include room layout complexity, the condition of your subfloor, and whether you need additional services. Simple rectangular rooms cost less to install than spaces with multiple angles, built-in cabinets, or intricate cuts around fixtures. If your subfloor has squeaks, uneven areas, or damage from the old flooring removal, expect additional costs of $1-$3/sq ft for subfloor preparation.

Additional costs to budget for include baseboard removal and reinstallation ($2-$4 per linear foot), transition strips between rooms ($15-$50 each), and furniture moving ($50-$200 per room). If you're installing in a basement or over concrete, moisture testing ($50-$150) is essential before any laminate installation in New Brunswick's humid climate.

Timing considerations matter in NB. Spring installation (April-June) often costs 10-15% more due to high demand as homeowners emerge from winter with renovation energy. Fall installation (September-November) typically offers better pricing and contractor availability, plus it's ideal timing before the heating season begins.

When to hire a professional: While DIY laminate installation is possible for handy homeowners, professional removal and installation ensures proper subfloor assessment, correct expansion gaps for NB's seasonal humidity swings, and warranty coverage. Professionals also handle the disposal of old materials and have the tools to manage complex cuts around heating vents and door casings efficiently.

Get quotes from multiple contractors through the New Brunswick Construction Network, as pricing can vary 25-30% between installers for identical scope and materials.