Flooring Installation in Ireland
By law, an employed craftsperson must be paid at least €23.74 an hour.
The Order sets the minimum an employed craftsperson must be paid, not what a contractor charges you.
Workplace Relations Commission, S.I. 620/2024, 1 August 2026
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What flooring installation costs in Ireland
| Rate | Range | Note | Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statutory minimum, craftsperson pay | €23.74 | Per hour. Category craftsperson, second phase of S.I. 620/2024. | |
| Statutory minimum, general operative (Category A) | €23.03 | Per hour. | |
| Employer PRSI on top of that pay | 11.25% | 11.25% until 30 September 2026, rising to 11.40% from 1 October 2026. Employer PRSI, Class A, national rate for 2026 (Revenue / Department of Social Protection) | |
| VAT on construction services | 13.5% | Reduced VAT rate on construction services, Revenue Commissioners | |
| Contractor charge-out, per tradesperson | €45–€75 | Before VAT. | Estimate |
Source: Workplace Relations Commission, S.I. 620/2024, 1 August 2026. Figures as of 1 August 2026.
The Order sets the minimum an employed craftsperson must be paid, not what a contractor charges you. VAT on construction services is 13.5% and is added on top of the quoted labour and materials.
Rows marked as estimates are aggregate market estimates, not sourced figures.
What moves the price
- Several factors influence the cost of flooring installation in Ireland.
- The volume of work is the first: a single room takes less time than a whole house, but larger jobs may benefit from economies of scale.
- Access matters too.
- Upper-floor rooms with narrow staircases or tight turns can slow down the delivery of materials and the removal of old flooring.
- The condition of the existing subfloor is critical.
- If it is uneven, damp, or damaged, it may need levelling, a new plywood layer, or a moisture barrier before any new floor goes down.
- The type of material also affects labour.
- Solid wood requires acclimatisation and careful nailing, while engineered boards and laminates often click together more quickly.
- Tiles need adhesive, grout, and sometimes a decoupling membrane.
- Underlay, trims, and skirting boards may add to the materials bill.
- Removal and disposal of the old floor is another consideration.
- Ask for a breakdown so you can see what is labour, what is materials, and what is disposal.
How long flooring installation takes
The time it takes to install a floor depends on the size of the area, the material, and the condition of the subfloor. A single room in a typical Irish home might take one to two days, while a whole house could take a week or more. Tiling is generally slower than laying laminate or engineered wood. If the subfloor needs preparation, such as levelling or drying out, this can add days before installation begins. Realistically, you can expect to wait a few weeks from accepting a quote to the start of work, as good installers are often booked in advance. Weather can affect drying times for screeds and adhesives, especially in winter. Ask the installer for a realistic schedule and keep in mind that unexpected issues, like hidden damp or uneven joists, can extend the timeline.
What to ask before you hire
- 01When you are hiring a flooring installer in Ireland, ask for a written quote that specifies the materials, the area to be covered, and whether removal of the old floor is included.
- 02Check that the installer has insurance, and ask for a copy of the policy.
- 03If they are VAT-registered, the quote should show the VAT separately.
- 04Ask who will tidy up at the end of each day and whether they will take away the old flooring and packaging.
- 05It is also wise to ask which professional body they are a member of, as this can indicate a commitment to standards.
- 06Confirm the start date and the expected duration in writing.
- 07If you are supplying your own materials, clarify who is responsible for any waste or damage.
- 08A clear contract helps avoid misunderstandings later.
Flooring installation guides
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Flooring fitters across Ireland
Laminate, wood and vinyl floor fitting is one of the most requested home jobs in Ireland, with steady demand in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and fast-growing commuter towns. New homeowners, landlords preparing rentals and families renovating kitchens or living rooms are the usual clients, and many book in the run-up to Christmas or after a house purchase in spring. Irish homes often have concrete ground floors and underfloor heating, so the right underlay, damp-proof membrane and compatible flooring matter. When you post a task, give room sizes, the flooring you have or want, whether old flooring needs lifting, the subfloor type, and if skirting, door trims or thresholds are needed.
Typical flooring installation jobs
- Laminate floor fitting in living rooms and bedrooms
- Solid oak or wood floor installation
- Engineered wood over underfloor heating
- Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or click vinyl fitting
- Kitchen and bathroom vinyl flooring
- Floor levelling and screed preparation
- Lifting and disposing of old carpet or laminate
- Stair cladding with laminate or wood
- New skirting boards and door trims
- Carpet fitting for bedrooms and stairs
Flooring installation questions people ask
How long does it take to install a wooden floor in an average Irish home?
It usually takes one to three days for a single room and up to a week for a whole house. The exact time depends on the size of the area, the type of wood, and whether the subfloor needs preparation. Solid wood requires acclimatisation, which can add a day or two before installation starts.
Do I need to move furniture before the installer arrives?
Yes, you should clear the rooms where work will take place. Installers typically do not move large furniture or fragile items. If you cannot move everything yourself, ask the installer in advance whether they can help for an extra charge. Removing furniture also protects your belongings from dust and damage.
What is the best flooring for a kitchen or bathroom in Ireland?
Porcelain or ceramic tiles are popular for kitchens and bathrooms because they are water-resistant and easy to clean. Luxury vinyl tiles are another good option, as they handle moisture well and feel warmer underfoot. Solid wood is generally not recommended for bathrooms due to humidity, but engineered wood can work in kitchens if sealed properly.
Can I install flooring over underfloor heating?
Yes, many flooring types are suitable for underfloor heating, but you must check the manufacturer's guidelines. Engineered wood, laminate, and tiles are often compatible, while solid wood may not be. The installer will need to ensure the heating system is commissioned and the floor is brought up to temperature gradually to avoid damage.
How soon after installation can I walk on the new floor?
For most laminate and engineered wood floors, you can walk on them immediately after installation. Tiled floors usually require 24 hours for the adhesive to set and up to 72 hours before heavy traffic. Your installer will give you specific advice based on the materials used and the drying conditions.
What should I do if my subfloor is uneven?
An uneven subfloor needs to be levelled before the new floor is laid. This might involve applying a self-levelling compound, adding plywood, or sanding down high spots. The installer will assess the floor during the quote visit and include any preparation work in the written estimate. Skipping this step can lead to squeaks or gaps later.
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