Detailed cost breakdown for flooring renovation in London, Ontario.
Budget Range
$4,388 - $10,439
Average Cost
$6,270 - $14,915
Premium Range
$10,032 - $23,864
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Flooring Material | $2,375 | $5,700 |
| Underlayment | $475 | $1,140 |
| Old Floor Removal | $760 | $1,900 |
| Baseboards | $570 | $1,425 |
| Transitions | $190 | $475 |
| Labour | $1,900 | $4,275 |
| Total | $6,270 | $14,915 |
Flooring choice should match the room's function: waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) for basements and kitchens, hardwood for living areas, and tile for bathrooms and entries. Engineered hardwood ($6–15/sq ft installed) is preferred over solid hardwood in Canada because it handles humidity fluctuations between seasons better. Always acclimate flooring materials in your home for 48–72 hours before installation to prevent warping.
Subfloor condition is a hidden cost driver — uneven or damaged subfloors require leveling ($2–5/sq ft extra). Removing existing flooring costs $1–3/sq ft. Pattern layouts (herringbone, chevron) increase labour costs by 20–40%. Transitions between different flooring types add $50–150 per transition strip. Underfloor heating adds $8–15/sq ft.
💡 Pro Tip
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has become the best value option for most Canadian homes — it's waterproof, scratch-resistant, and costs $4–8/sq ft installed. High-end LVP is virtually indistinguishable from real hardwood and can be installed over most existing floors.
London, Ontario offers renovation costs 15–20% below Toronto, making it one of the best-value markets in the province. The city's mix of Victorian homes in Old North and Wortley Village alongside newer suburban developments provides diverse renovation opportunities. Western University's presence creates steady demand for rental property upgrades. Contractor availability is generally good with 2–4 week lead times.
The City of London requires permits for structural, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work. Applications are processed through the Development and Compliance Services division. Simple residential permits are issued within 10 business days. London offers a pre-consultation service for complex projects.
London sits in southwestern Ontario's snow belt, receiving 194 cm of snow annually — significantly more than Toronto. This heavy snowfall means roofing must handle greater snow loads, and ice dam prevention is critical. The humid summers require proper ventilation in any renovation, especially basements.
In 2026, a flooring renovation in London costs between $4,388 (budget) and $23,864 (premium). The average standard cost ranges from $6,270 to $14,915.
London has a cost index of 95% relative to the Canadian national average. Prices are near the Canadian average. This index accounts for local labour costs, materials, and permit fees.
A standard flooring renovation typically takes 2 to 5 days per room. Premium projects or unexpected issues (e.g. structural problems) can extend the timeline. Always get a detailed schedule from your contractor.
A flooring renovation typically yields a 70–80% return on investment at resale in Canada. ROI depends on material quality, the local real estate market in London, and the property's condition.