Installation vs Supply Only Flooring: Which Is Cheaper?
- Imperial Flooring Australia
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
A cost comparison for Australian homeowners in Sydney, Wollongong & the Illawarra (2026 Guide)
One of the most common questions we receive at Imperial Flooring Australia from homeowners across Sydney,
Wollongong, and the Illawarra is:
Is it cheaper to buy flooring supply-only, or choose a supply and installation package?
While supply-only flooring can appear cheaper upfront, the true cost depends on labour, subfloor condition, warranty coverage, and installation complexity — especially in metropolitan and coastal areas.
What Does “Supply Only Flooring” Mean?
Supply-only flooring means you’re purchasing just the product — such as engineered timber, hybrid, laminate, or vinyl — and organising installation yourself or completing the install DIY.
Typical supply-only price ranges in Australia (per m²):
Hybrid flooring: $30 – $70+
Laminate flooring: $25 – $50
Engineered timber flooring: $70 – $150+
Vinyl plank flooring: $25 – $65+
Pros of Supply-Only Flooring
✔ Lower upfront material cost
✔ Freedom to choose your own installer in Sydney or Wollongong
✔ DIY installation can reduce costs further
Cons of Supply-Only Flooring
✘ Installation is an additional cost
✘ No single point of responsibility if issues arise
✘ Manufacturer warranties may be affected if installation is not completed correctly
At Imperial Flooring Australia, we often see supply-only customers underestimate installation requirements — particularly in Sydney apartments and coastal Wollongong homes, where subfloor preparation and moisture control are critical.
What Is Supply + Installation?
Supply and installation packages include:
Flooring materials
Professional installation by experienced installers
Standard trims and finishing details
Manufacturer-approved installation methods
Installation warranty
Typical fully installed price ranges (per m²):
Hybrid & laminate flooring: $60 – $115+
Engineered timber flooring: $105 – $200+
Vinyl plank flooring: $55 – $95+
Labour generally represents 30–50% of the total project cost, depending on access, layout complexity, and subfloor condition.
Cost Comparison Example
Let’s compare a 50m² living area in a Sydney or Wollongong home using mid-range hybrid flooring.
Option 1: Supply-Only + Separate Installer
Flooring supply: 50 × $45 = $2,250
Installation labour: 50 × $35 = $1,750
Total installed cost: $4,000
Option 2: Supply + Installation Package
Full supply & install rate: 50 × $75 = $3,750
Total installed cost: $3,750
👉 In many cases, choosing a supply and installation package through Imperial Flooring Australia offers better value and fewer risks than coordinating separate trades.
When Supply-Only Can Be Cheaper
Supply-only may be suitable if:
You’re confident with DIY installation
You’re installing simple click-lock flooring
The subfloor is already flat and compliant
You’re comfortable managing your own project
DIY installation can save $25–$60 per m², but mistakes can be costly — particularly in Sydney apartments and coastal Wollongong properties, where incorrect installation can void warranties.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Additional costs that are often overlooked:
Subfloor levelling or moisture treatment
Removal and disposal of existing flooring
Adhesives + floating floor underlays and moisture barriers
Skirting boards, trims, and stair detailing
These extras can add $5–$30+ per m², depending on site conditions. At Imperial Flooring Australia, these factors are assessed upfront for homes across Sydney, Wollongong, and the Illawarra.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Your Priority | Best Choice |
Lowest upfront cost | Supply-only (DIY install) |
Best finish & longevity | Supply + professional installation |
Warranty protection | Supply + installation |
Complex layouts or premium timber | Supply + installation |
Final Verdict: Which Is Cheaper?
✔ Supply-only is cheaper for materials, but not always cheaper overall
✔ Supply and installation often delivers better long-term value, especially in Sydney and coastal regions
✔ DIY can be the cheapest option, but only when done correctly
At Imperial Flooring Australia, we proudly service Sydney, Wollongong, and the Illawarra, helping homeowners choose the most cost-effective, durable, and beautifully finished flooring solutions.
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