Replacing laundry flooring is one of the most effective ways to refresh your space, improve safety, and protect your home against moisture damage. Whether you’re renovating a compact apartment in Zetland or Wolli Creek, a terrace in Newtown or Balmain, or a family home in Castle Hill, Ryde, or Kellyville, laundry flooring replacement is a crucial step that combines functionality with style.

In this guide, we break down typical Sydney costs, material options, installation factors, and tips for budgeting so that you can make confident decisions for your laundry renovation.

Typical Cost Range for Laundry Flooring Replacement in Sydney

Laundry flooring prices in Sydney vary widely depending on the material, size, and complexity of installation. Homeowners can expect:

$50 – $250 per square metre

This includes materials and professional installation. For an average Sydney laundry of 6–10 m², total costs typically range between:

• Budget-friendly options: $500 – $1,500

• Mid-range options: $1,500 – $3,500

• Premium options: $3,500 – $6,000+

This cost includes not only the flooring material but also preparation work such as removal of old flooring, subfloor inspection, and waterproofing if required.

Factors That Affect Laundry Flooring Costs

1. Type of Flooring Material

The choice of flooring is the most significant factor in overall costs. Popular Sydney options include:

• Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles

• Durable, waterproof, easy to clean

• Ideal for wet zones in laundries and coastal homes like Coogee, Manly, and Bondi

• Wide variety of colours, patterns, and finishes
  Cost: $70 – $150/m² including installation

• Vinyl / Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)

• Water-resistant, affordable, softer underfoot

• Great for apartments in Zetland, Waterloo, Mascot, or Ryde
  Cost: $50 – $120/m² including installation

• Laminate Flooring (Moisture-Resistant)

• Budget-friendly, easy to install, and stylish

• Not as water-resistant as vinyl or tiles; best for laundries with limited water exposure
  Cost: $60 – $120/m² including installation

• Natural Stone Tiles (Marble, Slate, Granite)

• High-end, luxurious finish

• Durable and visually striking, suitable for premium homes in Mosman, Vaucluse, or Double Bay
  Cost: $150 – $250/m² including installation

2. Subfloor Preparation

Before installing new flooring, the subfloor must be properly prepared:

• Levelling uneven floors: $200 – $500

• Moisture barrier installation: $150 – $400

• Repairing damaged subfloor or water-damaged sections: $200 – $800

Subfloor preparation is especially common in older homes in suburbs like Paddington, Ashfield, Petersham, or Glebe, where age and prior water exposure can lead to uneven surfaces or weak flooring structures.

3. Labour and Accessibility

Labour costs vary depending on the ease of access and complexity of the installation:

• Small laundries with straightforward access: $30 – $60/m²

• Tight spaces, awkward corners, or multi-level homes: $50 – $100/m²

Terraces in Newtown, Marrickville, and Balmain may require careful cutting and levelling around cabinetry or appliances, adding slightly to labour costs.

4. Removal of Existing Flooring

• Vinyl / Linoleum removal: $50 – $150

• Old tiles removal: $150 – $500 depending on adhesive and subfloor condition
  Older homes often require more labour-intensive removal, particularly in areas like Ashfield, Strathfield, or Burwood, where tiles and adhesives are firmly embedded.

Popular Flooring Choices by Sydney Suburb

Inner West – Newtown, Leichhardt, Balmain

• Homeowners prefer ceramic tiles for durability and waterproofing

• Bold, modern patterns or classic neutral tones are common

North Shore – Mosman, Killara, Lindfield

• High-end natural stone or porcelain tiles

• Premium finishes matched to kitchen and bathroom cabinetry

Eastern Suburbs – Coogee, Randwick, Maroubra

• Water-resistant tiles for coastal humidity

• Luxury vinyl tiles also popular for quick installation

Western Sydney – Blacktown, Castle Hill, Parramatta

• Budget-friendly options such as vinyl or laminate

• Durable tiles for family homes and high-traffic areas

Additional Considerations for Sydney Homeowners

Waterproofing

Waterproofing is critical in laundries to prevent long-term damage. This is especially important in:

• Apartments with shared walls in Zetland, Wolli Creek, or Mascot

• Older terraces in Newtown, Glebe, or Annandale

• Coastal homes exposed to humidity or sea breezes in Manly or Coogee

Cost: $300 – $600 depending on area and materials

Cabinetry and Appliances

Flooring work may require minor adjustments to cabinetry or appliances:

• Removing or lifting base cabinets

• Ensuring plumbing and electrical points are accessible

• Adjusting dishwasher, washing machine, or laundry sink connections

These adjustments may add $150 – $500 to the overall project cost.

Tips for Budgeting and Planning Your Laundry Flooring Renovation

1. Plan Around Your Renovation Timeline

Coordinate flooring replacement with cabinetry or plumbing work to save on removal and reinstallation costs.

2. Choose Materials Wisely

Balance durability, water resistance, and aesthetics — especially in areas like coastal Eastern Suburbs or older homes with potential moisture issues.

3. Prepare the Subfloor Early

Inspect for water damage, uneven surfaces, or cracks to avoid unexpected costs during installation.

4. Consider Professional Installation

While DIY might be tempting for vinyl or laminate, hiring licensed professionals ensures compliance with building codes and waterproofing standards — crucial in Sydney’s diverse home stock.

5. Match the Flooring to the Home’s Style

• Inner West terraces: classic or patterned tiles for heritage charm

• Modern apartments: luxury vinyl tiles or sleek porcelain for contemporary style

• North Shore family homes: stone or porcelain for a premium feel

Case Examples

1. Newtown Terrace

• Small laundry (6m²)

• Ceramic tiles, subfloor levelling included

• Total cost: ~$1,800

2. Bondi Apartment

• European laundry (4m²)

• Waterproof vinyl flooring

• Tight access, minor cabinet adjustment

• Total cost: ~$1,200

3. Mosman Family Home

• Medium-sized laundry (8m²)

• Premium porcelain tiles, full waterproofing

• Total cost: ~$3,500

4. Castle Hill Home

• Large laundry (10m²)

• Laminate moisture-resistant flooring

• Old subfloor repair included

• Total cost: ~$2,400

Is Replacing Laundry Flooring Worth It?

Absolutely. Benefits include:

• Improved safety and slip resistance

• Better water damage protection

• Enhanced aesthetics that complement kitchen or bathroom renovations

• Higher resale value

• Easier cleaning and maintenance

Even small laundries in Marrickville, Redfern, or Ryde gain functional and visual upgrades through well-chosen flooring.

Final Thoughts

Replacing laundry flooring in Sydney is an investment that pays off in style, durability, and functionality. When planning, consider:

• Material selection

• Labour and access challenges

• Subfloor preparation

• Coordination with cabinetry, appliances, and plumbing

Budgeting between $500 and $6,000 depending on size, materials, and complexity will ensure a practical and beautiful result.

For expert guidance, design ideas, and professional renovation services in Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au to learn more about kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation solutions provided by MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.