Vinyl Flooring Costs and What to Expect in Australia

Vinyl flooring is one of the most popular choices for Australian homes thanks to its durability, easy maintenance, and versatile design options. Whether you’re renovating a single room or updating your entire home, vinyl flooring offers a budget-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on style. Before starting your project, it’s important to understand the potential costs involved so you can plan your budget with confidence.

Average Costs of Vinyl Flooring in Australia

Vinyl flooring is available in several formats — including vinyl planks, sheets, and tiles — each with its own price range. Here’s a general guide to what you can expect to pay:

• Standard Vinyl Sheet Flooring:
  Usually priced from $20 to $40 per square metre, vinyl sheets are a cost-effective choice for large areas and come in a wide range of styles.
  
• Vinyl Planks and Tiles:
  These offer a more premium appearance and are typically priced between $30 and $65 per square metre, depending on thickness and finish.
  
• Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP):
  Designed to closely mimic the look of timber or stone, LVP options can cost anywhere from $50 to $90 per square metre.
  

While these prices provide a starting point, actual costs can vary depending on the quality of the product and the scope of your flooring project.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for vinyl flooring, it’s important to account for more than just the price of materials. Additional expenses may include:

• Installation:
  Professional installation can range from $25 to $50 per square metre, depending on site conditions, floor preparation needs, and labour rates.
  
• Underlayment or Subfloor Preparation:
  If your existing floor is uneven or damaged, underlayment or repairs may be required before installation. This can add $5 to $15 per square metre.
  
• Removal of Old Flooring:
  If existing flooring needs to be removed, this may cost an extra $10 to $30 per square metre, depending on the material.
  
• Trims and Accessories:
  Finishing touches like skirting boards, edging, and transitions may add $100 to $300 to the total cost, depending on the size of the area.
  
• Ongoing Maintenance:
  Vinyl floors are low-maintenance, but using appropriate cleaning products and avoiding harsh chemicals will help maintain their appearance over time.
  

Factors That Influence Vinyl Flooring Price

Several elements can influence how much you’ll pay for vinyl flooring:

• Quality and Brand:
  Premium brands and higher-quality products generally come with a higher price tag but offer better durability and longer warranties.
  
• Thickness and Wear Layer:
  Thicker vinyl with a durable wear layer (measured in millimetres) is more resistant to dents and wear, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
  
• Design and Finish:
  Textured surfaces, embossed finishes, and high-definition printing can raise the price, but these features often result in a more realistic look and feel.
  
• Waterproof and Acoustic Properties:
  Some vinyl products come with added benefits like waterproofing or built-in acoustic layers, which can affect both cost and performance.
  
• Room Size and Layout Complexity:
  Smaller rooms with awkward layouts may require more cutting and labour time, slightly increasing installation costs.
  

Cost-Saving Tips for Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is already one of the more affordable options on the market, but there are ways to make it even more budget-friendly:

• Compare Product Ranges:
  Explore different brands and ranges to find a good balance between price and durability. Sometimes mid-range options offer excellent value.
  
• Buy in Bulk:
  Purchasing larger quantities may qualify you for volume discounts, especially if you’re covering multiple rooms.
  
• DIY Where Possible:
  If you’re confident with home improvement projects, you may be able to install sheet vinyl or peel-and-stick tiles yourself — just make sure the subfloor is prepared correctly.
  
• Choose Standard Designs:
  More common colours and patterns are often cheaper than custom or high-end designer finishes.
  
• Shop Promotions and Clearance Sales:
  Keep an eye on seasonal sales or clearance items at your local flooring retailer to snap up high-quality products at reduced prices.
  

Plan Your Vinyl Flooring Budget with Confidence

Vinyl flooring offers great value, combining durability, design flexibility, and ease of maintenance at an accessible price point. While basic sheet vinyl starts from around $20 per square metre, costs can increase based on installation, underlayment, and premium finishes. By understanding the different cost factors and exploring smart ways to save, you can confidently plan a vinyl flooring project that fits your budget and enhances your home’s style.

Builders Discount Warehouse offers a wide selection of affordable vinyl flooring options to suit any project. Visit us in-store or online to explore our latest styles and speak with our team for expert advice.